Garbage disposal trips the house circuit breaker or GFCI when turned on

Safety first: Turn OFF the breaker supplying the disposal and verify power is off with a non-contact tester before opening any covers.

• Step 1 – Inspect the power cord and plug: For corded GE disposals, unplug the unit and inspect the cord jacket for cuts, burns, or crushed sections. Replace a damaged cord kit.
• Step 2 – Check the junction box: If hardwired, remove the small junction box cover on the disposal bottom/side. Inspect for loose wire nuts, exposed copper, or signs of arcing. Re-strip and reconnect wires with new wire nuts if needed, and ensure the strain relief is tight.
• Step 3 – Look for water leaks: Examine the area around the disposal for leaks from the sink flange, dishwasher inlet, or discharge elbow. Water dripping into the motor housing can cause a ground fault. Repair leaks before further use.
• Step 4 – Test on a different GFCI (if corded): Plug the disposal into another known-good GFCI-protected outlet (using an extension cord only for testing). If it still trips immediately, the motor windings are likely shorted and the unit must be replaced.

Warning: Do not continue resetting a breaker or GFCI that trips instantly; this indicates a potentially dangerous electrical fault.