A garbage disposal’s reset button is an overload protector, not its normal on/off switch. On an InSinkErator, it can shut the disposal off when the unit jams, runs for a very long time, or develops another issue. Clear any jam before pressing reset, using the instructions for your brand below.
Before you touch the disposal
- Turn the disposal’s power switch off and confirm it is off. Keep it off while clearing a jam or removing an object.
- Never put your fingers or hands inside the disposal. Use tools to loosen a jam and tongs or pliers to retrieve lodged objects.
- For an InSinkErator jam, have a flashlight, tongs or pliers, and the silver Jam Buster/self-service wrenchette ready. A standard 1/4-inch Allen wrench can replace the wrenchette.
- For a Waste King jam, use a wooden spoon, another long wooden object, or an unjamming wrench—not your hands.
How to reset an InSinkErator garbage disposal
- Allow an EZ Connect unit to cool. For an EZ Connect disposal controlled by a wall switch, leave the switch off and allow up to 20 minutes of cooling before turning it back on. For an EZ Connect unit controlled by a push-button air switch, turn it off and unplug it for up to 20 minutes before reconnecting it. Keep the operating switch off during the steps below.
- Find the reset button. Look underneath the sink at the bottom of the disposal, facing the floor. The overload protector is a red square button. When tripped, it protrudes downward rather than remaining seated.
- Clear any jam. With both the disposal and water off, insert the Jam Buster or 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the center hole on the bottom of the unit. Work it back and forth until it turns freely through one full revolution. Remove the wrench, then use tongs or pliers to remove any lodged objects.
- Gently press the red reset button. It should stay up in its seated position. If it does not stay in, wait 10 minutes and try again.
- Restore power only after the jam is cleared and the button stays in. Reconnect the plug if it was disconnected, then use the normal operating switch to check whether the disposal runs.
How to reset a Waste King garbage disposal
Use Waste King’s turntable-clearing method rather than the InSinkErator bottom-hole wrench procedure.
- Check that the turntable can rotate freely. With the power switch off, use a wooden spoon or an unjamming wrench to check its movement. If it is stuck, use a long wooden object to loosen the jam. Retrieve lodged objects with tools, never your hands.
- Replace the splashguard once the turntable rotates freely and the obstruction has been removed.
- Press the reset button. Push it in until it clicks and stays depressed.
- Use the normal power switch to check operation. Do not turn the disposal on while tools are still inside it.
If the disposal still will not run
Turn its operating switch off again. For an InSinkErator that remains inoperative after clearing the jam and pressing reset, check the home’s service panel for a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. Waste King also lists the power switch, fuse box, and circuit breaker among the checks when its reset button has not tripped.
Stop and contact a qualified professional if the jam will not clear, the reset button will not stay seated after the applicable steps, or the unit remains inoperative. If the reset button trips repeatedly, do not keep repeating this procedure. Wiring, internal parts, and motor repairs are not part of a reset.
Leave the disposal switched off when you finish.