The Ultimate Guide: Insinkerator Garbage Disposal Reset Button Unveiled

Understanding InSinkErator Garbage Disposals

InSinkErator garbage disposals are popular among homeowners due to their reliability and efficiency. To get the most out of your unit, it’s important to understand its lifespan, maintenance needs, and the functionality of its overload protector.

Lifespan and Maintenance

An InSinkErator garbage disposal can last between 8 to 15 years on average (Van Marcke Plumbing Supply). This lifespan can vary depending on how frequently the disposal is used, the quality of materials, and how well it’s maintained. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your disposal.

Here are some maintenance tips to help you prolong the lifespan of your InSinkErator garbage disposal:

• Routine Cleaning: Clean the unit periodically to prevent buildup and odors. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean the disposal and flush it with hot water.
• Avoid Hard Objects: Refrain from putting hard objects like bones or fruit pits down the disposal, as these can cause jams and damage the blades.
• Use Cold Water: Always run cold water while the disposal is in use. Cold water solidifies any grease or fats, which are then chopped up and flushed away, preventing clogs.

For more detailed information, visit our guide on insinkerator garbage disposal maintenance.

Overload Protector Functionality

The InSinkErator garbage disposal is equipped with an overload protector, commonly known as the reset button. This feature is designed to automatically shut off the disposal in case of issues like jams, extended operation, or other problems. Understanding how this mechanism works can help you troubleshoot minor issues on your own.

Location: The red reset button is located at the bottom of the disposal unit, facing the floor.

Function: If the overload protector trips, the red button will drop down about a quarter of an inch (5mm). To reset it, press the red button gently. If it does not stay up, wait for ten minutes and try again (InSinkErator).

Common Issues:

• Frequent Tripping: If the reset button frequently needs to be pressed, this may indicate a more serious issue that requires servicing. In some cases, InSinkErator may cover the cost of servicing if it’s due to a quality issue (InSinkErator).
• Button Not Staying In: If the reset button does not stay in, it may point to underlying electrical issues, jams, or faulty seals.

For more troubleshooting tips, visit our insinkerator garbage disposal troubleshooting page.

Issue	Potential Cause	Solution
Unit Not Turning On	Electrical system issues	Check the reset button and circuit breaker
Frequent Resets	Internal jams or electrical faults	Service by a professional
Button Not Staying In	Persistent internal issues	Wait 10 minutes and try again, or seek professional help

Understanding these aspects of your InSinkErator garbage disposal will aid in proper maintenance and quick troubleshooting. For installation guidelines and more information, visit insinkerator garbage disposal installation.

Resetting an InSinkErator Disposal

Resetting your InSinkErator garbage disposal can often resolve common issues such as jams, overloads, and minor malfunctions. Here’s how you can locate and reset the Insinkerator garbage disposal reset button.

Locating the Reset Button

The reset button on an InSinkErator garbage disposal is a crucial component for troubleshooting. The red square button, which is part of the overload protector, is typically located at the bottom of the unit, facing the floor. This button automatically turns off the disposal if there is an issue such as a jam or extended operation, preventing further damage to the unit (InSinkErator).

Feature	Description
Reset Button Color	Red
Location	Bottom of the unit
Function	Overload protector

Resetting Process

Follow these steps to reset your InSinkErator garbage disposal:

1. Turn off the power: Disconnect the power supply to the disposal by turning off the circuit breaker or unplugging the unit. This ensures your safety while performing the reset.
2. Locate the reset button: Find the red reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. If the button is tripped, it will have dropped down about a quarter of an inch (5mm).
3. Press the reset button: Hold down the reset button for approximately 15 seconds, then release it. If the button does not stay up, wait ten minutes and try pressing it again.
4. Turn on the power: Reconnect the power to the disposal by turning the circuit breaker back on or plugging the unit back into the outlet.
5. Test the unit: Turn your garbage disposal on and run water through it to verify that the issue has been resolved. If the problem persists, it may be time to contact a professional for further assistance (WebstaurantStore).

If the reset button does not resolve the issue, the disposal unit may need professional servicing. Common problems that might require expert intervention include electrical system issues, disposal jams, drain pipe clogs, or faulty seals in the mounting, hoses, or pipe connections (The Spruce). You might also want to explore our guide on insinkerator garbage disposal troubleshooting for more detailed solutions.

For more information about different InSinkErator models and their unique features, check out our articles on the insinkerator badger 5 and the insinkerator evolution compact. Understanding the specifics of your unit can help in better maintenance and troubleshooting practices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When dealing with your InSinkErator garbage disposal, you may encounter some common problems. Here we will address two frequent issues: the unit not turning on and dealing with clogs.

Unit Not Turning On

If your InSinkErator garbage disposal isn’t turning on, several factors could be the cause. To troubleshoot this issue, follow these steps:

1. Check Power Supply: Ensure the disposal is plugged into an outlet or hardwired to your electrical system. If the unit is plugged in and won’t turn on, try resetting the outlet’s GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) if it has one.
2. Reset Button: Locate the red reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. Pressing this button can restore power if the internal circuit breaker has tripped (The Spruce).
3. Circuit Breaker: Check your home’s main electrical panel to see if the circuit breaker for the disposal has tripped. If so, reset the breaker.
4. Inspect Wiring: If the disposal is hardwired, ensure that all connections are secure. If unsure, it’s best to call a professional electrician.

Possible Issue	Solution
Disposal not plugged in	Plug in the disposal
Tripped GFCI	Reset the outlet’s GFCI
Tripped unit’s reset button	Press the red reset button
Tripped circuit breaker	Reset the breaker in the electrical panel
Loose wiring connections	Check and tighten connections

For more detailed troubleshooting steps, visit insinkerator garbage disposal troubleshooting.

Dealing with Clogs

Clogs are a common problem with garbage disposals, especially when inappropriate items are put down the sink. Here’s how to handle them:

1. Turn Off Power: Before attempting to clear a clog, ensure the disposal is turned off and unplugged to avoid any accidents.
2. Use a Wrench: Insert the wrench into the hole at the bottom of the disposal and rotate it to manually turn the impeller. This can help dislodge any blockages.
3. Remove Debris: Use pliers or tongs to remove any visible debris from the disposal. Never use your hands to reach inside the disposal.
4. Reset the Unit: After clearing the clog, press the reset button to restore power to the unit (The Spruce).

Step	Description
Turn off power	Unplug the unit or turn off the circuit breaker
Use a wrench	Rotate the impeller manually to dislodge blockages
Remove debris	Use pliers or tongs to clear visible obstructions
Reset the unit	Press the red reset button to restore power

If the clog persists, you may need to consult a professional plumber. For more information on dealing with clogs, check out insinkerator garbage disposal not working.

By addressing these common issues, you can ensure your InSinkErator garbage disposal functions smoothly. For more in-depth guidance, explore our articles on insinkerator garbage disposal parts and insinkerator garbage disposal warranty.

Handling Leakages

Leaks in your InSinkErator garbage disposal can be a nuisance and may lead to further damage if not addressed promptly. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can help you manage and prevent leaks effectively.

Identifying Leaks

To effectively handle leaks, you need to identify their source. Leaks can originate from various parts of the garbage disposal unit. Here are some common areas to check:

• Sink Flange: The seal between the sink and the flange can wear out, causing leaks.
• Dishwasher Connection: The hose connecting the dishwasher to the disposal can loosen or crack.
• Discharge Pipe: The pipe that carries waste away from the disposal can develop leaks.
• Reset Button: Leaks from this area often indicate a more significant internal issue.

Maintenance Techniques

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, you can employ various maintenance techniques to address the issue. Here are some common solutions:

Source of Leak	Maintenance Technique
Sink Flange	Reseal the area with plumber’s putty and tighten the mounting bolts.
Dishwasher Connection	Tighten or replace the hose and secure it with hose clamps.
Discharge Pipe	Replace worn-out gaskets and ensure the pipe connections are tight.
Reset Button	If the leak persists, it might be time to replace the unit.

For detailed steps on how to address these issues, refer to our insinkerator garbage disposal troubleshooting guide.

• Tightening Connections: Ensure all bolts and clamps are tight. If necessary, replace worn-out bolts with new ones.
• Replacing Hoses or Pipes: If the leak is due to a damaged hose or pipe, replace it with a new one. Make sure the new parts are compatible with your InSinkErator model. For compatible parts, visit our page on insinkerator garbage disposal parts.
• Resealing Sink Flange: Apply plumber’s putty around the sink flange to create a watertight seal. Tighten the mounting bolts to secure the flange in place.
• Inspecting the Unit for Cracks: If you find significant damage or cracks, especially around the reset button, it may be time to replace the unit. Check out our recommendations for the best insinkerator garbage disposal.

For more information on maintaining your InSinkErator and preventing future leaks, visit our insinkerator garbage disposal installation and insinkerator garbage disposal warranty pages.

By following these techniques and regularly inspecting your unit, you can ensure your InSinkErator garbage disposal remains leak-free and functions efficiently.

Noise Troubleshooting

Unusual Noises

If your InSinkErator garbage disposal is making unusual noises, it may be due to various underlying issues. Common noises include slinking, metallic sounds, or rattling. These noises often indicate a problem within the grinding chamber.

Here are some potential causes and solutions:

• Slinking Noise: This noise often means that a foreign object is stuck in the grinding chamber. Turn off the unit and inspect the chamber for any debris.
• Metallic Sound: This can occur if metal objects like utensils fall into the disposal. Carefully remove the object to prevent damage.
• Rattling Noise: This may be caused by loose components within the unit. Ensure all parts are securely fastened.

If you encounter persistent issues, it might be useful to consult our InSinkErator garbage disposal troubleshooting guide.

Resolving Grinding Chamber Issues

When your InSinkErator garbage disposal is making grinding noises, this typically indicates a problem within the grinding chamber. Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Turn the Unit Off: For safety, disconnect your disposal from the power source.
2. Insert the Wrench: At the bottom of the garbage disposal, there is a small hole for maintenance. Insert the dejamming wrench into this hole and turn it to the left.
3. Check the Chamber: Use a flashlight to inspect the grinding chamber. Look for any damage or debris around the outer edge of the shredding disk.
4. Remove Debris: If you see any debris, remove it using tongs or pliers.
5. Reassemble and Test: After removing the debris, reassemble the unit. Run water through the disposal and turn it on to check if the noise has stopped.

Tools Needed	Purpose
Dejamming Wrench	To manually turn the grinding plate
Flashlight	To inspect the chamber
Tongs or Pliers	To remove debris

For more detailed instructions, refer to WebstaurantStore.

If the noise persists after following these steps, it may be time to contact a service professional. Additionally, consider reviewing our articles on InSinkErator garbage disposal parts and best InSinkErator garbage disposal for further assistance.

Professional Assistance

When dealing with an InSinkErator garbage disposal, there are times when professional help is necessary. Understanding when to call a plumber and considering repair versus replacement costs can save you time and money.

When to Call a Plumber

If your garbage disposal refuses to turn on despite resetting it, there might be deeper electrical issues at play. According to The Spruce, if you flip the switch and do not hear the motor humming, there is likely an electrical problem preventing the appliance from receiving current. This could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or an electrical short in the disposal unit, which can cause recurring issues.

In such cases, calling a professional plumber is wise. They can assess the unit and its electrical connections to identify the problem (Mr. Plumber). If the issue cannot be repaired, the plumber can help you select and install a new unit. For more detailed troubleshooting steps, visit our insinkerator garbage disposal troubleshooting page.

Repair vs. Replacement Cost Considerations

When your garbage disposal malfunctions, deciding whether to repair or replace it is crucial. The cost of repairs typically ranges around $100 or less, while a new unit can cost between $80 and $500 (Forbes).

Option	Cost
Repair	~$100
New Unit	$80 – $500

Factors to consider include the age and condition of your current disposal, the cost of potential repairs, and the price of a new unit. If your disposal is older and requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new unit. For guidance on selecting the best model, check out our best insinkerator garbage disposal page.

For those who prefer to handle the installation themselves, visit our guide on insinkerator garbage disposal installation for step-by-step instructions. However, if you are unsure, it’s always best to seek professional assistance to ensure the job is done correctly.

Understanding when to call a plumber and weighing the costs of repair versus replacement can help you maintain your InSinkErator garbage disposal efficiently. For more information on warranties and parts, visit our pages on insinkerator garbage disposal warranty and insinkerator garbage disposal parts.