Garbage disposal trips the household circuit breaker or GFCI outlet when turned on

Safety first: Do not repeatedly reset a breaker or GFCI that trips immediately. Turn OFF the breaker and unplug the disposal if possible.

• Step 1 – Inspect cord and plug: For corded Whirlaway models, check the power cord for cuts, crushed sections, or burn marks. Replace the cord if damaged.
• Step 2 – Check junction box wiring: Remove the electrical cover on the disposal and inspect wire nuts and insulation. Tighten connections and ensure no bare wires are touching the housing.
• Step 3 – Look for signs of water: If the unit has been leaking from the bottom, water may have entered the motor housing, causing a ground fault. In this case, the disposal must be replaced.
• Step 4 – Test on a known-good circuit: If safe and permitted, plug the disposal into another GFCI-protected outlet to confirm whether the unit or the circuit is at fault.
• Step 5 – Replace if shorted: If the breaker or GFCI still trips immediately when the disposal is energized, the motor windings are likely shorted. Replace the disposal and consult an electrician if the circuit continues to trip with a new unit.