Garbage disposal will not turn on; wall switch has power; unit is silent with no humming.

Safety First: Turn OFF the wall switch and unplug the disposal from the outlet under the sink. If it is hard-wired, switch OFF the circuit breaker before working on the unit.

Step-by-step:

• 1. Check power supply: Verify the outlet has power by plugging in a lamp or tester. If no power, reset the GFCI outlet or breaker.
• 2. Reset the overload: Locate the red reset button on the bottom of the KitchenAid disposal housing. Press it firmly until it clicks. If it immediately trips again, do not keep resetting.
• 3. Clear any jam: Insert a disposal wrench or 1/4" Allen key into the hex socket at the bottom center of the motor shaft. Rotate back and forth to free the grinding plate. Remove any visible debris from the grind chamber using tongs or pliers (never your fingers).
• 4. Cool-down period: Allow the unit to cool for 10–15 minutes if it was overheated from long use.
• 5. Test operation: Restore power, run cold water, then flip the wall switch. If the unit still does not start and the reset will not stay engaged, the overload protector or motor windings may be damaged.

When to call a technician: If the reset button will not stay in or trips repeatedly with no jam present, the internal overload or motor assembly is likely failing and the disposal may need replacement.