Reset Switch - The most common reason for a dead disposer is a popped reset button on the bottom of the disposer. Push in the red button and see what happens. If it immediately begins to hum but does not turn immediately turn it off and go to the "disposer hums" page.
Disposer Bottom View
Reset Does Nothing - In this case either the disposer is bad (open windings) or there is no power. Check the breaker, the wall switch and finally open the bottom of the disposer and check for 110VAC at the black and white wires. If power is present replace the disposer. If no power is found, find the break in the circuit.
Disposer Wiring
Occasionally, you may encounter a "Batch Feed" unit which is operated by a handle inserted into the opening and not a wall switch. This is a child proof device. In such cases the handle or the magnetic switch on the wall of the grinding chamber may have failed and need replacement. These are very expensive, rare disposers; In Sink Erator Model 17.
