How to Reset a Garbage Disposal: Easy Steps and Tips

Resetting your garbage disposal is a straightforward process that can resolve many common issues. By following a few simple steps, you can get your garbage disposal back to working condition without the need for professional help. Let’s explore how to reset a garbage disposal, why it might stop working, and what you can do to maintain it.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working?

Your garbage disposal might stop working for various reasons, such as:

1. Overloading: Putting too much food waste at once can cause the motor to overheat.
2. Clogs: Hard or fibrous materials like bones, eggshells, or vegetable peels can jam the blades.
3. Electrical Issues: A tripped circuit breaker or unplugged unit could be the culprit.
4. Mechanical Wear and Tear: Older units may fail due to worn-out components.

Understanding these potential causes can help you diagnose the issue and determine whether a simple reset will suffice or if further repairs by professionals, such as Tucson Plumbing and Drain, are necessary.

Steps to Reset Your Garbage Disposal

If your garbage disposal isn’t running or is humming without grinding food, try these steps to reset it:

1. Turn Off the Power: Before doing anything, switch off the garbage disposal at the wall and unplug it. For added safety, turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Locate the Garbage Disposal Reset Button: Most garbage disposals have a reset button located at the bottom or side of the unit. It’s typically red or black and designed to trip when the motor overheats.
3. Press the Reset Button: Once the disposal has cooled down (wait 10-15 minutes if overheated), press the reset button. You should feel or hear a small click.
4. Check for Obstructions: Use a flashlight to inspect the grinding chamber for debris. If you spot any, remove them carefully with tongs or a wooden dowel—never use your hands.
5. Reconnect and Test: Plug the disposal back in, switch on the power, and test it by running cold water and turning on the unit.

If these steps don’t work, the problem could be more serious, such as a jammed impeller or electrical fault. In such cases, professional assistance by experienced plumbers such as Tucson Plumbing and Drain might be required.

How To Prevent Common Garbage Disposal Problems?

Keeping your garbage disposal in good working condition requires proactive maintenance and mindful usage. Here are some effective strategies to prevent common problems:

1. Avoid Non-Food Items: Never put non-food materials such as plastic, metal, or glass into the disposal. These items can damage the blades and the motor.
2. Limit Fibrous and Starchy Foods: Minimize the disposal of items like celery, potato peels, and banana skins, which can wrap around the blades or create clogs.
3. Run Cold Water Consistently: Always run a steady stream of cold water while the disposal is in use and for a few seconds afterward. This helps to solidify any grease, preventing it from sticking to the pipes.
4. Cut Large Items into Smaller Pieces: Instead of forcing large chunks of food waste, cut them into smaller pieces that the disposal can process more easily.
5. Perform Regular Cleaning: Clean your disposal weekly by pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the chamber, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then rinsing with cold water. You can also grind citrus peels to keep it smelling fresh.
6. Use Ice Cubes to Sharpen Blades: Every two weeks grind a handful of ice cubes to help remove buildup from the grinding chamber.
7. Don’t Overload the Unit: Feed waste into the disposal gradually rather than dumping large amounts all at once. This prevents the motor from overloading and overheating.

By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can reduce the chances of encountering a garbage disposal not working when you need it most. Regular care not only extends the life of your unit, but also ensures smooth operation for years to come. 

To learn more about the best ways to take care of your garbage disposal, contact Tucson Plumbing and Drain.

When Should You Consider a New Garbage Disposal Installation?

If your garbage disposal frequently malfunctions or doesn’t respond even after resetting, it might be time for a replacement. Signs that you need a new unit include:

• Persistent leaks
• Loud or unusual noises.
• Inability to grind food waste effectively.
• Frequent electrical issues.

Pro Tip: Hire a professional for garbage disposal installation to ensure the new unit is correctly fitted and compliant with local plumbing codes. It is crucial to choose an experienced plumber who knows his way around various kinds of garbage disposal units, to ensure yours is correctly installed and works properly in the longer run. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the garbage disposal reset button located? 

The reset button is typically located at the bottom or side of the unit. It’s designed to protect the motor from overheating.

Why does my garbage disposal hum but not grind? 

A humming sound usually indicates a jammed impeller or motor issue. Turn off the power and check for obstructions before resetting.

Can I install a garbage disposal myself? 

While DIY garbage disposal installation is possible, hiring a professional plumber such as Tucson Plumbing and Drain ensures proper alignment and prevents plumbing mishaps.

How often should I reset my garbage disposal? 

Frequent resets may indicate underlying issues such as overloading or mechanical wear. Address these problems to avoid repeated resets.

What should I do if my garbage disposal is still not working after resetting? 

If resetting doesn’t solve the issue, check for clogs, loose connections, or call a professional for an inspection.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your garbage disposal can often resolve minor problems and restore functionality. However, proper usage and regular maintenance are key to preventing issues in the first place. If your garbage disposal not working becomes a recurring problem, consider reaching out to Tucson Plumbing and Drain for expert advice and services.

Whether you need a quick fix or a new garbage disposal installation, our team is here to help. Contact us today for reliable plumbing solutions tailored to your needs!