Two things to stop: water and power
A disposal problem can involve both water and electricity, often in the same small cabinet. Knowing where to cut each one, and in what order, keeps a small leak small and keeps everyone safe.
In many Fullerton homes, the kitchen sink has its own hot and cold shutoff valves, called angle stops, under the sink. The whole house can also be shut off at the main valve, usually where the water line enters the house or near the meter. Power for the disposal comes from a switched outlet or a hardwired circuit on a breaker in the electrical panel.
Your map (fill in and post)
| Item | Where it is | How to operate it | Checked on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disposal wall switch or air switch | |||
| Disposal plug and outlet | |||
| Breaker for the disposal | Panel location: / Breaker number: | ||
| Nearby GFCI outlet | |||
| Cold water angle stop | Turn clockwise to close | ||
| Hot water angle stop | Turn clockwise to close | ||
| Dishwasher supply valve | |||
| Main water shutoff | |||
| Reset button and hex socket on unit | Bottom of disposal | Press reset; 1/4-inch hex key |
Order of operations in a leak
Switch off the disposal
Use the wall or air switch so it cannot start.
Cut its power
Unplug it if the plug is dry and easy to reach; otherwise turn off its breaker.
Stop the water
Close the angle stops. If they will not close or the leak is on the supply side, close the main shutoff.
Contain and dry
Put a pan under the unit and towels on the cabinet floor.
Note and call
Note where the water came from and call a licensed plumber.
Test your map once a year
- Angle stops turn without forcing and close fully.
- The main shutoff turns and is not buried or blocked.
- The disposal breaker is labeled correctly.
- A 1/4-inch hex key is stored with the map.
- Everyone in the house knows where the map is.
Common questions
Does closing the angle stops stop a drain leak?
It stops new water from the faucet, but a drain leak only leaks while water is going down. Stop using the sink and dishwasher until it is fixed.
Where is the main shutoff usually?
It varies by house. Common spots are near where the line enters the house or at the meter. If you cannot find it, ask a plumber to show you.
Should I label the breaker myself?
Yes, once you confirm which breaker turns the disposal off. A clear label saves time later.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.