Food Waste Disposer Won't Start

If your food waste disposer won't start, the problem could be caused by a tripped overload protector, a jammed grinding plate, a faulty power supply, or a failed motor. Before replacing any parts, inspect the most common causes listed below.

Safety Notice: Always turn off power to the disposer at the circuit breaker before servicing it. Never place your hand inside the grinding chamber. Use the supplied hex wrench or tongs to remove obstructions.

Possible Causes

  • Tripped overload protector
  • Jammed grinding plate
  • No power supply
  • Faulty wall switch
  • Failed start capacitor
  • Damaged power cord or wiring
  • Loose electrical connection
  • Failed motor

1. Tripped Overload Protector

Most Common Solution

The overload protector automatically shuts off the disposer if the motor overheats or becomes overloaded. Once the motor cools, the reset button must be pressed before the disposer will operate again.

What to do:

  • Turn off power to the disposer.
  • Allow the motor to cool for several minutes.
  • Press the reset button located on the bottom of the disposer.
  • Restore power and test the unit.

2. Jammed Grinding Plate

A jammed grinding plate prevents the motor from turning and is one of the most common reasons a disposer won't start.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Insert the supplied hex wrench into the bottom of the disposer.
  • Rotate the grinding plate back and forth until it moves freely.
  • Remove any foreign objects and press the reset button before restarting.

3. No Power Supply

If the disposer is not receiving power, it will not operate.

What to do:

  • Verify the disposer is connected to power.
  • Test the outlet with another appliance.
  • Check your home's circuit breaker or GFCI outlet.
  • Restore power and test the disposer again.

4. Wall Switch

A faulty wall switch may prevent power from reaching the disposer.

What to do:

  • Test the wall switch by operating the disposer.
  • Inspect the switch for signs of damage.
  • Replace the switch if it is defective.

5. Start Capacitor

The start capacitor helps the motor begin rotating. If it fails, the motor may hum but fail to start.

What to do:

  • Listen for a humming sound when the disposer is switched on.
  • Test the capacitor according to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Replace it if it is defective.

6. Power Cord or Wiring

A damaged power cord or loose wiring can interrupt power to the disposer.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Inspect the power cord and accessible wiring.
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring as needed.

7. Loose Electrical Connection

Loose wire connections inside the electrical compartment can prevent the disposer from operating.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Inspect the wire connections inside the disposer.
  • Tighten any loose electrical connections.

8. Motor

If the motor has failed internally, the disposer will not start even after the jam has been cleared and power has been restored.

What to do:

  • Verify the grinding plate rotates freely.
  • Check that power is reaching the disposer.
  • Replace the motor or disposer assembly if the motor has failed.

Need Help Finding the Correct Part?

If you need help identifying the correct replacement part, send us your complete food waste disposer model number and a clear photo of the appliance identification label before placing your order. Our team will verify compatibility and help ensure you receive the correct replacement part the first time.