How to Fix a Tripped Reset Button on InSinkErator Evolution Excel

3 min read

I’ve worked on dozens of InSinkErator Evolution Excel units over the years, and a tripped reset button is honestly the most common service call I get for this model. Nine times out of ten, it’s caused by jamming or overloading the 1 HP motor, and the fix is usually as simple as clearing the jam and pressing that red reset button on the bottom of the unit.

Dave Holt — Certified Appliance Repair Technician

Experience: 15+ years servicing residential & commercial appliances  •  Certifications: EPA 608 Certified, NATE-recognized technician  •  Former lead technician at a multi-state appliance service company  •  Specialties: Washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, ice makers

This repair guide will help you fix your garbage disposal.

Need a Replacement Garbage Disposal?

InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, Standard Series 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Food Waste Disposer, Black, Set of 1

Price: $114.00

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Common Symptoms & Causes

These signs point to a tripped reset button on your InSinkErator Evolution Excel garbage disposal.

🔨 Pro Tip from Dave

On the Evolution Excel, the reset button (part #11931) sits recessed about 1/4 inch on the unit’s base, and a common mistake I see is homeowners pressing it before letting the motor cool down for at least 10 minutes — it simply won’t stay engaged if the thermal overload is still hot. Also, always use the included jam-buster wrench in the center bottom port to manually free the grinding plate before resetting, or you’ll trip it again immediately.

  • The disposal hums briefly then goes completely silent when switched on
  • The unit makes no sound or response at all when the wall switch is flipped
  • The reset button on the bottom of the unit is visibly popped out by roughly 1/4 inch
  • The disposal stopped mid-cycle after grinding a large food load

This typically occurs when the disposal’s built-in overload protector trips due to a jammed grinding chamber, overheating from extended use, or a hard foreign object lodged in the unit.

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How Much Does This Repair Cost?

Fixing a tripped reset button on your InSinkErator Evolution Excel is typically free, requiring no replacement parts. If the button itself is faulty, a replacement reset button costs around $5–$15. Professional service calls for this issue run $150–$300, making DIY troubleshooting an easy way to save significant money.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my InSinkErator Evolution Excel reset button keep tripping?

A frequently tripping reset button usually indicates a jam or an overloaded motor. Clear any debris from the disposal and avoid grinding hard materials like bones or fruit pits.

Where is the reset button located on the Evolution Excel?

The reset button is a small red button found on the bottom of the unit beneath your sink. Press it firmly until you feel it click into place.

What should I do if pressing the reset button doesn’t fix the problem?

If the disposal still won’t run after resetting, check your home’s circuit breaker for a tripped breaker. If the issue persists, contact InSinkErator support or a licensed appliance technician.

Recommended Products

These are the parts and tools we recommend for this repair, based on compatibility and customer reviews:

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