August 13/2025
Resetting Your Garbage Disposal: Quick Fix or Red Flag?
A garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen tool until it suddenly stops working. If yours has gone silent, one of the first things you might try is pressing the reset button. In many cases, this simple step can get your disposal running again in seconds. But sometimes, hitting that reset is more than just a quick fix, it can be a warning sign of a bigger problem.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, our plumbers often get calls from homeowners wondering why their disposal keeps needing a reset. Here’s how to tell when it’s a harmless hiccup and when you might need professional garbage disposal repair.
How the Garbage Disposal Reset Works
The reset button on your garbage disposal is designed as a built-in safety feature. When the motor overheats—usually because it’s jammed or overloaded—it trips a circuit inside the unit to prevent damage. Pressing the reset button restores power to the motor so it can run again.
If you’ve pressed reset and your disposal works fine afterward, you may have simply had a temporary overload. But if the problem keeps happening, there’s likely an underlying cause that needs attention.
When Resetting Is Just a Quick Fix
A single reset isn’t usually a cause for concern. Common harmless causes include:
- Overloading the disposal
- Running without enough water
- Accidentally dropping a small object inside
In these cases, resetting your disposal after clearing the obstruction should solve the problem.
When Resetting Signals a Bigger Problem
If you find yourself pressing the reset button regularly, that’s a red flag. Possible causes include:
- Worn or failing motor — Older units may struggle to handle even normal use.
- Electrical issues — Faulty wiring or a failing circuit could cause power interruptions.
- Internal damage — Blades, bearings, or other moving parts may be worn or broken.
- Clogs further down the line — Even if the disposal spins, a blocked drain can cause strain and overheating.
In these situations, repeatedly resetting won’t fix the underlying issue. You’ll need a plumbing repair service to diagnose and solve the problem.
Safe Steps Before Resetting Your Disposal
If your garbage disposal has stopped working, follow these steps before pressing reset.
- Turn off the power: Switch off the disposal and unplug it, or turn off the circuit breaker.
- Check for jams: Use a flashlight and a wooden spoon or hex key to dislodge any debris (never use your hands).
- Run cold water: This helps flush small bits through the system.
- Press the reset button: Usually located on the bottom of the unit.
If it runs normally afterward and doesn’t trip again, you’re likely in the clear. If not, it’s time to call a plumber in New Jersey.
The Role of Professional Garbage Disposal Repair
Garbage disposals are powerful but intricate machines. Persistent issues can indicate electrical problems, worn components, or drainage concerns—issues that require professional tools and experience to fix safely.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, our team can quickly diagnose why your garbage disposal keeps tripping and recommend the best solution, whether that’s a simple repair, part replacement, or a new installation. We ensure your disposal works efficiently and safely, helping you avoid costly breakdowns in the future.
Take Initiative Today
Resetting your garbage disposal once in a while is perfectly normal. But if you’re pressing that button repeatedly, it’s time to treat it as a warning sign rather than a quick fix. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing today for expert garbage disposal repair. Our skilled plumbers in Middletown Township provide fast, reliable service to keep your kitchen running smoothly.
