The reset button is usually a red or black button on the bottom or side of the motor housing

Most garbage disposals have a reset button mounted directly on the motor itself, which sits beneath your sink. The button is typically red or black and about the size of a pencil eraser. On under-sink models, look on the bottom of the cylindrical motor housing — you may need a flashlight and a mirror to see it clearly. On some units, the button sits on the side of the motor instead.

If you cannot find it on the motor housing, check the wall outlet or the cord. A few older or specialty models have the reset button on a separate wall-mounted switch or on the outlet itself. Your disposal's manual will show the exact location for your model, but the bottom-of-motor placement is standard across most brands including InSinkErator, Waste King, and Badger.

Key Takeaways

  • The reset button is a small red or black button on the motor housing, usually on the bottom but sometimes on the side.
  • You press the reset button after the disposal has tripped off due to overload, jamming, or a thermal shutdown.
  • Before pressing reset, turn off the wall switch and clear any blockage or jam from the drain.
  • If the reset button pops out repeatedly after you press it, the motor may have an internal problem that needs professional repair.

Why the reset button trips and what to do before pressing it

The reset button is a thermal overload switch. It pops out automatically when the motor gets too hot or draws too much current — usually because the disposal is jammed, overloaded with food waste, or stuck on a hard object like a bone or utensil. When this happens, the disposal stops working and the button sticks out slightly from the housing.

Before you press the button, turn off the wall switch above the sink. Then look down the drain opening with a flashlight and remove any visible blockage, jam, or foreign object using tongs or pliers — never put your hand down the drain. If you see a bone, fruit pit, or utensil, pull it out. Run water briefly to clear loose debris, then turn the switch back off before pressing reset.

How to press the reset button correctly

Once the jam is cleared and the switch is off, locate the reset button on the motor housing. Press it firmly with your finger or the heel of your hand — you should feel it click or pop back in. The button should sit flush with the housing when reset. Do not force it; a firm, steady press is enough.

After pressing reset, turn the wall switch back on and run cold water for a few seconds to test the disposal. It should start normally. If it does not start, the motor may not have cooled enough yet — wait 15 to 20 minutes and try again. If it still does not work, the reset button may not have engaged fully, or there may be a deeper electrical or mechanical problem.

What to do if the reset button keeps popping out

If the reset button pops out again within a few minutes of pressing it, or if it pops out repeatedly over several days, the motor is overheating or drawing too much current. This usually means one of three things: a jam you did not fully clear, a bearing or seal wearing out inside the motor, or a short in the electrical system.

Start by turning off the disposal and checking the drain one more time for any stuck object. Use a plumbing snake or a bent wire coat hanger to probe deeper into the drain if needed. If the drain is truly clear and the button still pops out, do not keep pressing it — repeated thermal trips can damage the motor further. Stop using the disposal and contact a plumber or the manufacturer for repair or replacement.

Locating the reset button on different disposal models

InSinkErator disposals, the most common brand, have the reset button on the bottom of the motor. Waste King models also place it on the bottom, though some compact models put it on the side. Badger disposals typically have it on the bottom as well. If your disposal is mounted at an angle or in a tight space, you may need to remove the P-trap or the mounting ring slightly to access the button — but do not disconnect plumbing unless you are comfortable doing so.

If you cannot locate the button after checking the bottom and sides of the motor, look for a model or serial number plate on the housing and search the manufacturer's website for a diagram. Many manufacturers post PDF manuals online that show the exact button location. You can also call the manufacturer's customer service line with your model number, and they will tell you where to look.

When to call a plumber instead of pressing reset

If the reset button is stuck and will not pop out, or if it is cracked or missing, do not force it. A stuck button usually means the motor has seized or the switch mechanism is damaged. If the disposal has been running for many years and the reset button pops out frequently, the motor bearings may be wearing out, and replacement is often cheaper than repair.

Also call a plumber if pressing reset does nothing — the disposal does not start, makes no sound, or makes a humming sound but does not spin. These signs point to an electrical connection problem, a broken motor shaft, or a failed capacitor. A plumber can test the electrical circuit and determine whether the unit can be repaired or needs to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I press the reset button while the disposal is running?

No. Always turn off the wall switch before pressing reset. The disposal must be completely stopped and the motor must have cooled slightly for the reset to work properly. Pressing the button while the unit is running can damage the switch or cause injury.

How long should I wait after the disposal stops before pressing reset?

Wait at least 5 to 10 minutes for the motor to cool. If the disposal tripped due to a heavy jam, wait 15 to 20 minutes. Pressing reset too soon may not work because the thermal switch is still hot and will trip again when ready.

Is it normal for the reset button to pop out?

It is normal for the button to pop out once in a while if you overload the disposal or jam it with a hard object. But if it pops out every few days or every time you use the disposal, something is wrong — either a persistent jam, a failing motor, or an electrical issue. Have it inspected by a plumber.

What if I cannot reach the reset button under my sink?

If the space is too tight, you can remove the P-trap or adjust the mounting slightly to gain access, but only if you are comfortable with plumbing work. Otherwise, ask a plumber to press it for you. Do not try to force your hand into a cramped space — you risk injury.

Does pressing reset fix a broken garbage disposal?

Reset only works if the disposal tripped due to overload or jamming. If the motor is broken, the reset button will not fix it. If pressing reset does nothing and the disposal still will not start, the motor needs professional repair or replacement.