You’re cleaning up after dinner, flip the switch to run the garbage disposal—and nothing happens. No grinding, no whirring, maybe just a low hum or total silence. If you’ve found yourself thinking, “My disposal stopped working, and I have no idea why,” you’re not alone.
At The Family Plumber, we get calls like this every day from homeowners and businesses across Surprise, Arizona and the surrounding areas. Garbage disposals are one of the most-used appliances in the kitchen, so when they suddenly stop working, it can be more than just inconvenient—it can bring your whole sink setup to a halt.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons your garbage disposal might stop, how to safely troubleshoot it, and when it’s time to call in the professionals. We’ll also answer key questions like:
- Why did my garbage disposal suddenly stop working?
- How do I fix a garbage disposal that won’t turn on?
- Is there a reset button on my disposal?
- Why is my disposal humming but not working?
- How do I know if the motor is burned out?
Whether it’s a simple fix or you need a brand-new garbage disposal installation, our licensed plumbers are here to help—along with all your other plumbing repair needs, from leak detection to toilet and water heater installations.
Let’s get your disposal (and your kitchen) back in working order.
Why Did My Garbage Disposal Suddenly Stop Working?
When a garbage disposal stops working out of nowhere, it can feel like a mystery—but the truth is, there are a few common culprits behind the issue. Understanding what’s likely causing the problem is the first step to fixing it.
Here are the most common reasons we see at The Family Plumber when a customer calls us and says, “My disposal stopped working!”
1. Power Issues
Sometimes the fix is simpler than you’d expect. If the disposal is plugged into a faulty outlet or the circuit breaker has tripped, it won’t turn on at all. This is especially common after a storm, power surge, or if you’ve been using other high-powered kitchen appliances on the same circuit.
2. Overheating
Garbage disposals are built with an internal safety feature that shuts the unit off if it gets too hot—usually from overuse or overloading. In this case, the reset button (more on that later) may need to be pressed to restore power.
3. Jammed or Clogged Unit
If something too hard—or the wrong type of food—goes down the disposal, it can jam the blades. Items like bones, fruit pits, silverware, or even fibrous vegetables (like celery or corn husks) can bring the entire unit to a stop.
4. Motor Burnout
If your unit is older or has been struggling for a while, the motor may have finally given out. Signs of this include humming sounds without movement or complete silence even after trying a reset.
5. Drain or Sewer Backup
Sometimes the issue isn’t the disposal at all—it’s the drain line or even your sewer system. If your kitchen sink is backing up, or if water won’t drain even after running the disposal, it might be time to have your drains and sewers professionally inspected.
How to Fix a Garbage Disposal if It Won’t Turn On
If your garbage disposal is completely unresponsive—no sound, no movement, no hum—it may feel like the unit is dead. But don’t panic just yet. Many times, a disposal that won’t turn on just needs a little troubleshooting.
Here’s how to safely handle it when you’re thinking, “My disposal stopped working and won’t even turn on.”
Step 1: Check the Power Source
Start with the basics:
- Is it plugged in?
Believe it or not, this is one of the most common issues we see as plumbers in Surprise, AZ. The outlet under your sink might have been bumped loose. - Check the circuit breaker
Go to your home’s electrical panel and look for a tripped breaker. If the breaker connected to your kitchen outlets has tripped, flip it off and back on again.
Step 2: Press the Reset Button
Most garbage disposals come with a built-in reset button, usually located on the bottom of the unit. It’s typically red or black.
- Press the button firmly.
- If it pops back out when pressed, it means your unit likely overheated and shut off automatically.
- Wait a few minutes, then try turning it on again.
This small step can often fix the problem instantly.
Step 3: Unplug and Replug the Disposal
Many homeowners ask:
“Will unplugging a garbage disposal reset it?”
It just might! Some models have basic electronics inside that can benefit from a quick power cycle.
- Unplug the disposal from the wall outlet.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and test the switch.
Step 4: Test the Switch
If everything seems connected and the reset button has been pressed, but you still get nothing when flipping the wall switch, it could be a faulty switch or wiring issue—not the disposal itself. That’s when it’s best to call in a professional.
If you’ve tried all of these steps and your disposal is still unresponsive, don’t worry—The Family Plumber is just around the corner. We can inspect your system, identify whether it’s a power problem or a motor failure, and provide a fast solution. Whether you need a repair or a full garbage disposal installation, we’ve got you covered.
Is There a Reset Button on a Garbage Disposal?
Yes, most garbage disposals are equipped with a reset button, and it’s one of the simplest ways to get your disposal back in action—especially if it suddenly stops working.
The reset button serves as a built-in safety feature that automatically cuts off power to the motor when it’s overloaded or overheated. Think of it like a “circuit breaker” for your disposal.
Where Is the Reset Button?
- The reset button is usually located on the bottom of the garbage disposal unit.
- It’s typically red or black and slightly recessed.
- You may need to crawl under your sink or use a flashlight to locate it clearly.
How Does It Work?
When your disposal is overloaded or gets too hot, the reset button automatically cuts off power to protect the motor. If your unit isn’t responding, it’s likely because the reset button was triggered.
How to Use the Reset Button
Here’s what you should do:
- Turn off the power.
For safety, either unplug the disposal or turn off the circuit breaker. - Press the reset button.
Firmly press the button located on the bottom of the disposal. You may hear a slight “click” as the button resets. - Test the disposal.
Once the reset button is pressed, turn the unit on again. If the motor was simply overheated, it should start up again as soon as you flip the switch.
When to Call for Professional Help
If pressing the reset button doesn’t fix the issue, you may be dealing with a more serious problem, such as a jammed motor or a burned-out motor. This is where the expertise of The Family Plumber can really come in handy. We can quickly determine if a garbage disposal installation is needed or if a simple repair will get your unit back on track.
Why Is My Garbage Disposal Humming But Not Working?
If your garbage disposal makes a humming noise but doesn’t actually grind or spin, it can be frustrating and confusing. While it might seem like it’s working, the fact that it’s not actually performing its function points to an issue that needs attention.
Here’s what’s likely causing your disposal to hum but not work:
Common Causes of Humming Without Grinding
- Jammed Impellers
Sometimes, food scraps or debris can get caught between the impellers and the grinding ring, causing the motor to hum without being able to turn. This is the most common cause of a humming noise, and it’s usually a quick fix. - Stuck Flywheel
The flywheel is the part of the motor that rotates to grind food. If it gets stuck—either due to an object caught in the blades or a mechanical issue—it can cause the humming sound without allowing the motor to spin. - Worn-Out Motor
In some cases, the humming noise could indicate a failing motor. If the motor can’t get enough power to turn the flywheel, it may hum briefly before shutting off or not turning at all.
How to Fix a Humming Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is humming but not working, don’t panic! Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
- Turn off the Power
Safety is the most important thing when working with any appliance. First, turn off the power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit to avoid any electrical accidents. - Use an Allen Wrench to Manually Turn the Motor
On the bottom of most garbage disposals, you’ll find a hex (Allen) key socket. Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the hole, and rotate the wrench back and forth. This can free up a stuck flywheel or move any debris that’s causing the impellers to jam. - Check for Jammed Debris
If you can’t move the flywheel with the wrench, carefully use a wooden spoon handle or another blunt object to try and dislodge any debris caught inside the disposal. Avoid using anything sharp that could damage the unit. - Test the Disposal
Once you’ve manually freed the flywheel, plug the disposal back in or turn on the breaker and test the switch. If the disposal starts running normally, the issue was likely a jam.
When to Call a Professional
If the humming persists, even after trying the above steps, it could be a sign of a worn-out motor or other internal damage. At this point, it’s best to contact The Family Plumber for a professional evaluation. We can help you determine whether a repair is possible or if you need a garbage disposal installation.
How to Tell If a Garbage Disposal Motor Is Burned Out
If your garbage disposal is no longer working despite troubleshooting, and it’s not humming or responding at all, there’s a good chance the motor is burned out. Unfortunately, a burned-out motor is one of the most common reasons a disposal stops working completely, and it typically means it’s time for a replacement.
Here’s how you can tell if your disposal motor has burned out:
Signs of a Burned-Out Motor
- No Response When Turning It On
If the disposal doesn’t make any noise at all—no humming, grinding, or whirring—despite checking power and pressing the reset button, the motor may have failed completely. A burned-out motor can no longer generate the power needed to run the unit. - Burning Smell
A burning odor is one of the clearest signs of a motor that has overheated. When the motor gets too hot, it can burn out. If you notice a burning smell coming from your disposal, stop using it immediately, as it could be dangerous. - Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
If your circuit breaker trips every time you try to run the disposal, it may be because the motor is drawing too much current due to internal damage. This is a safety feature designed to prevent electrical fires but signals an issue with the disposal motor. - Humming That Stops Suddenly
If the unit starts humming, then stops suddenly without performing any grinding, it’s likely that the motor has failed. This can happen if the motor can’t handle the strain of trying to turn but ultimately gives out.
What to Do if the Motor Is Burned Out
If you suspect your garbage disposal motor is burned out, it’s typically more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than attempt a costly motor repair. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn off Power
First and foremost, ensure the power is completely turned off by either unplugging the unit or turning off the breaker. You don’t want to take any chances with an electrical malfunction. - Consult a Professional Plumber
At The Family Plumber, we specialize in garbage disposal installation and can help you choose a new, energy-efficient model that suits your needs. Our expert team will quickly remove the old unit and install a new one with minimal disruption to your home. - Consider an Upgrade
If your disposal was old and prone to breakdowns, this may be a good opportunity to upgrade to a higher-quality or more powerful model that better fits your household’s needs.
Is It Time to Replace or Repair?
While a burned-out motor usually calls for garbage disposal installation, there are times when a repair is still possible. If you’re unsure, The Family Plumber can inspect the unit, determine the cause of the failure, and help you decide whether it’s worth repairing or if it’s time to invest in a new disposal.
Call The Family Plumber in Surprise, AZ
At this point, you’ve learned about the most common reasons your garbage disposal might stop working and how to troubleshoot many of these issues yourself. But sometimes, it’s just easier—and safer—to call in the experts.
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips and your garbage disposal still isn’t working, it’s time to bring in a professional. That’s where The Family Plumber comes in.
Why Choose The Family Plumber?
As a family-owned and operated business in Surprise, AZ, we understand the importance of fast, reliable service. Whether it’s a simple garbage disposal repair, a full garbage disposal installation, or any other plumbing repair you need, we’re here to help. Our team is licensed, insured, and experienced in handling all types of plumbing issues, including:
- Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation
- Leak Detection and Pipe Repairs
- Water Heater Repair & Installation
- Sewer & Drain Services
- Toilet Repair & Installation
- Faucet and Sink Repair
- Bathtub & Shower Installation
Serving Both Residential & Commercial Customers
Whether you’re dealing with a malfunctioning disposal in your kitchen at home or you need a commercial plumbing solution, The Family Plumber is here to make sure your plumbing systems are functioning at their best. We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Surprise, Sun City, and the surrounding areas, offering fast and affordable service that you can trust.
Prevent Future Issues with Routine Maintenance
The best way to avoid issues with your garbage disposal in the future is through regular maintenance. At The Family Plumber, we offer a wide range of plumbing services, including regular inspections of your garbage disposal and other kitchen fixtures. By keeping your drains clear and checking for leaks, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.
If you’re worried about another breakdown or just want to make sure your plumbing systems are in top shape, let us handle it for you. We’re here for all your plumbing repair needs, from simple fixes to more complex installations.
Get In Touch Today
If you’re in need of professional plumbing services or a new garbage disposal installation, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly and professional team at The Family Plumber is ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or ask about any of our other plumbing services!
