A non-working garbage disposal can be frustrating, especially when it won’t even turn on. Before you call a plumber, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to see if you can get it running again. However, if these tips don’t solve the issue, it’s best to reach out to a professional to avoid further damage.
Common Reasons Your Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On
- Tripped Circuit Breaker
The most common cause of a garbage disposal not turning on is an electrical issue. Garbage disposals draw a significant amount of power, which can cause the circuit breaker to trip. Check your home’s electrical panel to see if the breaker for the kitchen or garbage disposal has been tripped. If it has, flip it back and try turning on the disposal again. - Reset Button Triggered
Most garbage disposals have a reset button located on the bottom of the unit. If the motor overheats or the disposal becomes jammed, this button will automatically shut off the power. Simply press the reset button, which may restore power to the disposal. - Power Connection
It might sound simple, but sometimes the power cord can come loose from the wall outlet. Ensure the garbage disposal is securely plugged in before testing it. - Clog or Jam in the Disposal
If your garbage disposal hums but doesn’t turn on, it’s likely that something is stuck in the blades. In this case, DO NOT stick your hands into the disposal! Instead, turn off the power, and use a wrench (often an Allen wrench) to manually rotate the disposal’s blades from underneath the unit. Many disposals come with a wrench specifically for this purpose.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve gone through these basic checks and your garbage disposal still won’t turn on, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Here are a few signs it’s better to leave the job to the pros:
- Repeated Power Issues
If your disposal frequently trips the breaker or reset button, there could be an underlying electrical issue or the motor may be failing. A plumber can diagnose whether it’s a wiring issue or if the disposal needs to be replaced. - Strange Noises
Grinding, screeching, or rattling noises can indicate internal damage, such as broken blades or worn-out bearings. Trying to use the disposal in this condition can cause further damage. - Leaking Disposal
If your disposal is leaking water, it’s likely due to worn-out seals or loose connections. A plumber can inspect the unit, find the source of the leak, and either fix it or recommend replacement if necessary. - Complete Unit Failure
If the garbage disposal doesn’t respond to any troubleshooting efforts and there’s no sign of power, the unit may have burned out. A plumber can confirm whether the unit needs to be replaced and can install a new one safely.
Preventing Future Problems
Once you’ve got your garbage disposal up and running, it’s important to follow a few best practices to avoid future breakdowns:
- Avoid overloading the disposal – Feed food waste slowly to prevent jams.
- Don’t grind hard materials – Bones, pits, and hard seeds can damage the blades.
- Run cold water – Always use cold water when running the disposal to keep the motor cool and help move waste down the drain.
Conclusion

A garbage disposal that won’t turn on can usually be fixed with a few simple steps, but if the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Aqua Knight Plumbing is here to help with any garbage disposal issues you may have, from troubleshooting to full replacements. Call us at 630-755-0583 to schedule a service!