Garbage disposal is completely dead, no hum, no sound, will not turn on at all

Safety first: Always turn OFF the wall switch and switch off the circuit breaker feeding the disposal before touching the unit. Never put your hand into the disposal chamber.

• Step 1 – Verify power at the outlet: If your GE disposal is cord-and-plug connected, unplug it and test the outlet with a lamp or small appliance. If the outlet is dead, check and reset the GFCI outlet (if present) and the kitchen circuit breaker in the panel.
• Step 2 – Check the wall switch: Confirm the disposal wall switch is functional by testing voltage (with a non-contact tester or multimeter) at the switch and at the outlet/junction box. Replace a defective switch.
• Step 3 – Press the GE reset button: On the bottom or lower side of the GE disposal housing, locate the small red reset (overload) button. With power OFF, press it firmly until it clicks. Restore power and test the unit.
• Step 4 – Inspect wiring connections: If hardwired, turn off the breaker, remove the junction box cover on the disposal, and inspect the wire nuts and strain relief. Tighten any loose connections and ensure the cable clamp is secure.
• Step 5 – Evaluate internal failure: If the outlet has power, the reset button will not stay engaged, and the unit remains dead, the internal thermal overload or motor windings may be open. At this point, replacement of the disposal motor assembly (entire unit) is typically required.

Warning: If you are not comfortable working with live electrical circuits, contact a licensed electrician or appliance technician.