In the average U.S. home, the garbage disposal is perhaps the most abused home appliance. We all take them for granted, with most homeowners not realizing that these disposal units are intended to handle only a minimal amount of waste that is rinsed from utensils and plates before they are placed in the dishwasher. Putting other things such as large bones or non-food items can result in jamming the garbage disposal, or even causing damage needing repair.
In this article, we will explain how to reset your garbage disposal, and address most common questions on what to do when resetting a disposal.
What Causes A Garbage Disposal To Need Resetting?
Large quantities of debris and food waste will occasionally overwhelm a garbage disposal, which can result in triggering the safety mechanism. Common causes of shutdowns include a problem with the disposal itself, clogs due to inappropriate items being put down the garbage disposal causing overheating, or having a garbage disposal run for an extended period of time.
If your garbage disposal’s overload protector has turned itself on, you can observe the button, which is usually red in color, poking out about a quarter of an inch to half an inch. Usually this button is on the base of the garbage disposal unit. This means that you will need to manually reset your garbage disposal.
How To Reset Your Garbage Disposal in five simple steps:
1. First and foremost, make sure that your garbage disposal’s wall power “ON” switch is turned OFF. If your unit has a plug, unplug it first. An unexpected trip to the emergency room will not help anyone.
2. Use a small flashlight to look down inside of your garbage disposal. Look for any obvious clogs or foreign objects that might be preventing your garbage disposal from operating. If you see any such items, then you can use a pair of needle-nosed pliers to carefully remove them. Likewise, your garbage disposal may have a hex key or allen wrench that you can use to help loosen a jammed disposal.
3. Now, gently press the red button inward in order to reset your garbage disposal. If it does not remain retracted, the unit may need to cool down. Wait 5 to 10 minutes before trying again.
4. Once the reset switch stays retracted, turn on a steady stream of cold water from your faucet. Flip the unit’s switch into the ON position. The disposal should now be running properly.
5. If the faucet’s reset button refuses to remain retracted, or if the unit requires you to frequently reset the overload protector, then your garbage disposal may need a component replaced or servicing. You will need to either contact the manufacturer for further instructions or a professional plumber.
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The garbage disposal is also one of the home’s most under-appreciated appliances. Make sure to treat yours well and have it serviced regularly. Doing so will ensure that you both enjoy a long, mutually beneficial relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does a Garbage Disposal Need Resetting?
There are several reasons why a garbage disposal might need to be reset. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Overloading: If you try to grind up too much food at once, the disposal can get jammed, and you'll need to reset it.
- Overheating: If the disposal runs for too long, it can overheat and shut off automatically. This is a safety feature to prevent damage to the disposal and your kitchen.
- Power surge: A power surge can sometimes cause the disposal to shut off, and you'll need to reset it to get it running again.
- Jamming: If an object gets stuck in the disposal, it can cause the motor to overheat and shut off. In this case, you'll need to reset the disposal and remove the object.
Where is the Reset Button on a Garbage Disposal?
The reset button is typically located on the bottom of the garbage disposal, near the electrical connection. It may be red or black, and it should be easy to locate. If you're having trouble finding the reset button, consult the owner's manual that came with your unit.
Do All Garbage Disposals Have a Reset Button?
Yes, almost all modern garbage disposals have a reset button. If your garbage disposal doesn't have a reset button, it's likely an older model, and you may want to consider replacing it.
How to Reset a Moen Garbage Disposal:
- Turn off the power supply to the disposal.
- Locate the reset button - on Moen Disposals, the reset button is on the side opposite where the power cord comes out.
- Push the reset button and hold it for 15-30 seconds.
- Release the reset button and turn the power supply back on.
- Test the disposal by running water and turning it on to make sure it's working properly.
How To Reset A Badger Garbage Disposal:
- Turn off the power supply to the disposal.
- Locate the reset button on the bottom of the unit.
- Push the reset button and hold it for 15-30 seconds.
- Release the reset button and turn the power supply back on.
- Test the disposal by running water and turning it on to make sure it's working properly.
How To Reset A Waste King Garbage Disposal:
- Turn off the power supply to the disposal.
- Locate the reset button - with all Waste King disposals, the reset button is located on the side opposite where the power cord comes out of the disposal.
- Push the reset button and hold it for 15-30 seconds.
- Release the reset button and turn the power supply back on.
- Test the disposal by running water and turning it on to make sure it's working properly.
How To Reset An InSinkErator Garbage Disposal:
- Turn off the power supply to the disposal.
- Locate the reset button on the bottom of the unit.
- Push the reset button and hold it for 15-30 seconds.
- Release the reset button and turn the power supply back on.
- Test the disposal by running water and turning it on to make sure it's working properly.
How To Reset A Garbage Disposal Without A Reset Button:
If your garbage disposal doesn't have a reset button, you can try unplugging it from the electrical outlet and waiting 30 seconds before plugging it back in. If that doesn't work, you may need to have a professional repair the unit.
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 23:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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