Whirlpool garbage disposal is completely dead (no sound, no hum) when the switch is turned on.

Safety first: Before opening any electrical boxes, turn off the breaker supplying the disposal.

• Check reset button: Press the red reset button on the bottom of the Whirlpool disposal. If it clicks, try running the unit again.
• Verify power at outlet: If the disposal is corded, plug in a lamp or tester to confirm the outlet has power. Reset any GFCI outlets in the circuit.
• Inspect wall switch: Remove the switch cover and check for loose wires (with power off). Replace the switch if it feels loose or fails continuity testing.
• Check junction box: For hardwired units, open the under-sink junction box and verify wire nuts are tight and no wires are burned.
• If power is present at the unit but it remains dead: The internal motor or overload protector has failed; replacement of the disposal is recommended.