Moen Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On: Reasons & Solutions

Flip the switch to the On position for Moen garbage disposal, and it won’t turn on. The garbage disposal doesn’t grind, make no sound, and leave you in puzzling silence!

Don’t panic.

The solution to this issue might be simpler than you think.

Generally, your Moen Garbage Disposal won’t turn on if:

• There is a power supply issue
• The reset button on the disposal unit pops out
• The unit may become clogged

Fortunately, I will walk you through in-detailed troubleshooting steps to revive your garbage disposal.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

In This Article:

• Moen Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On: Reasons & Troubleshooting Steps
  • 1. Power Supply Issue
  • 2. Tripped Reset Button 
  • 3. Jammed Garbage Disposal
• FAQs
• Conclusion | When To Call A Professional 

Moen Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On: Reasons & Troubleshooting Steps

Moen Garbage Disposal won’t turn on due to these three reasons, including power supply issue, tripped reset button, and jammed garbage disposal.  

1. Power Supply Issue

Issues with the power supply, for example, unplugged garbage disposal or tripped circuit breaker, are responsible for a garbage disposal that won’t turn on. 

Now, the question is- how can I tell that the culprit behind this issue is the power source? 

It’s simple.  

Turn on your garbage disposal. If you hear no sound or get stuck in puzzling silence, understand there is a power problem. 

How To Fix: 

First, check if there is a power issue. Crawl down the kitchen cabinet, look at the garbage disposal, and ensure you plug the disposal securely. 

People often overlook the basics, no matter how handy and environmentally conscious they are. 

If the garbage disposal is plugged in, glance at your circuit breaker. Locate the circuit breaker for disposal and check if it gets tripped. Reset the circuit breaker. 

Don’t forget to test the electric outlet you used to plug your garbage disposal. 

Regarding this, unplug the disposal and plug another appliance into the same outlet. If the appliance doesn’t come on, understand the outlet is at fault. 

I recommend you call a certified electrician to replace the electric outlet. 

Nonetheless, check the power cable for visible damage and test it with a voltmeter. If required, replace the power cord. 

2. Tripped Reset Button

A tripped reset button is the next culprit you should look for once you verify there is no power supply issue.

On garbage disposals, they have their overload protector called reset buttons. You can find the reset button on the bottom side, opposite the power cord on Moen Garbage Disposal.

The reset button works like a mini circuit breaker, preventing the disposal motor from overheating and damage.

Read Further: Moen Garbage Disposal Reset Button

If the reset button pops out, it indicates the unit senses an issue and shuts the disposal unit to protect it.

Resetting the garbage disposal might bring life back to the unit.

How To Fix:

To reset your Moen Garbage Disposal:

• Ensure you unplug the disposal from the electric outlet.
• Locate the reset button at the bottom side of the unit, opposite the power cord.
• Press the reset button gently.
• Restore the electric power to the unit.
• Run cold water and turn on the garbage disposal. The unit should come on. 

3. Jammed Garbage Disposal

Does the garbage disposal still malfunction after checking the power supply issue and pressing the reset button?

If yes, this sounds more mechanical. I bet the garbage disposal gets jammed due to improper usage or lack of maintenance.

How can I tell if the garbage disposal gets jammed?

Simple.

The garbage disposal only makes a humming noise instead of grinding when you turn on the garbage disposal.

How To Fix:

To unjam your Moen Garbage Disposal, follow these instructions:

• Verify that you turn the power supply off and unplug the garbage disposal.

• Use a flashlight and look down the grinding chamber to identify what restricts the impellers.

• Once you detect the restriction, it’s time to rotate the impellers manually. Moen Garbage Disposals have no spot at the bottom of the unit like the InSinkErator for inserting an Allen wrench.

• Get an unjamming disposal wrench and insert it from the top of the unit. Place the disposal wrench between the impellers and use force to turn the disposal back & forth until the blockage breaks free.

• Remove the restriction using long-handled pliers.

• Restore power to your disposal unit.

• Run cold water and turn on the disposal. 

FAQs

How do I check the power cord connection for my Moen garbage disposal?

To check the power cord connection, ensure you unplug the power cord first. Then, inspect the power cord and verify that there is no visible damage, like frying, cuts, and exposed wire on the power cord. 

How often should I perform maintenance on my Moen garbage disposal?

Performing routine maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal and increase its grinding efficiency. Use your garbage disposal two to three times every week and flush it. Every week, clean the garbage disposal with baking soda and vinegar and deodorize the disposal unit. When it comes to monthly maintenance, check for leaks and corrosion. 

Can overloading my Moen garbage disposal cause it to stop working?

Yes, overloading your Moen Garbage Disposal can cause the unit to stop working. When you put too much food waste into the grinding chamber, it overheats the motor. This can trigger the overload protector or reset button to pop up and shut down the unit to prevent damage. 

Conclusion | When To Call A Professional

Power supply issues, tripped reset button, and jammed garbage disposal- these three culprits are responsible for this issue: Moen Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On. 

To resolve this issue, check the power, press the reset button, and rotate the impellers manually.

If every troubleshooting step fails, there is no shame in getting a professional to take a look.

Relevant Articles:

• Moen Garbage Disposal Not Working 
• Moen Garbage Disposal Stuck
• Moen Garbage Disposal Reset Button Not Working