Food Waste Disposer Won't Stay On

If your food waste disposer starts but won't stay on, the problem could be caused by an overloaded motor, a jammed grinding plate, overheating, or an electrical issue. 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. If the disposer repeatedly shuts off, discontinue use until the cause has been identified.

Possible Causes

  • Motor overheating
  • Jammed grinding plate
  • Tripped overload protector
  • Failed start capacitor
  • Faulty wall switch
  • Loose electrical connection
  • Damaged power cord or wiring
  • Failing motor

1. Motor Overheating

Most Common Solution

The disposer's internal overload protector will automatically shut the motor off if it overheats. This commonly occurs when the unit is overloaded, jammed, or run continuously for an extended period.

What to do:

  • Turn off power to the disposer.
  • Allow the motor to cool for several minutes.
  • Press the reset button on the bottom of the disposer.
  • Reduce the amount of food being processed before using it again.

2. Jammed Grinding Plate

A partially jammed grinding plate can overload the motor, causing the disposer to shut off shortly after starting.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Use the supplied hex wrench to rotate the grinding plate from underneath the disposer.
  • Remove any foreign objects causing the jam.
  • Press the reset button before restarting.

3. Tripped Overload Protector

If the overload protector continues to trip, it usually indicates excessive motor load or overheating.

What to do:

  • Allow the disposer to cool completely.
  • Press the reset button.
  • If it trips repeatedly, inspect for jams or motor problems.

4. Start Capacitor

A failing start capacitor can prevent the motor from running properly, causing it to stop shortly after starting.

What to do:

  • Listen for humming or weak motor operation.
  • Test the capacitor according to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Replace it if it is defective.

5. Wall Switch

A faulty wall switch can interrupt power while the disposer is operating.

What to do:

  • Operate the switch several times.
  • Inspect for loose or worn contacts.
  • Replace the switch if it is defective.

6. Loose Electrical Connection

Loose wiring can cause intermittent power loss and shut the disposer off during operation.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Inspect the electrical compartment.
  • Tighten any loose wire connections.
  • Replace damaged wiring if necessary.

7. Power Cord or Wiring

A damaged power cord or electrical wiring can interrupt power and cause the disposer to stop unexpectedly.

What to do:

  • Inspect the power cord and accessible wiring.
  • Replace any damaged components.
  • Verify all electrical connections are secure before restoring power.

8. Motor

An aging or failing motor may run briefly before shutting off due to internal electrical or mechanical problems.

What to do:

  • Verify there are no jams or overload conditions.
  • Confirm the disposer is receiving proper power.
  • 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.