Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?

Did you wake up today and find a sopping wet cabinet? Your garbage disposal might be leaking.

Soon, a foul-smelling puddle will form, making the situation even worse than before. However, the frustrating thing is that you can’t find out which component is leaking.

This article will help you find out why your garbage disposal is leaking and what you can do to fix it.

Where do Garbage Disposals Leak?

Usually, garbage disposals leak from the top, the bottom, or the pipe connections. You have to check each component to determine whether your garbage disposal is leaking or there is some other plumbing problem.

Here are 6 reasons why your garbage disposal might be leaking:

Leaky Sink Flange

The sink flange is located at the top of the garbage disposal unit. Here the garbage disposal connects with the sink and drain. If your garbage disposal is leaking from this spot, then the flange is defective.

The mounting bolts might be loose, or the putty may be weak. If the weak putty is the problem, you’ll have to replace it.

Worn Out Gaskets

You can also check the garbage disposal’s gasket (which is between the rubber seal and flange). You’ll have to replace the gasket if there is any discharge in it.

Over time, the gasket becomes weak and starts to leak. But you won’t have to replace the gasket if the existing gasket is simply not sealed properly.

Loose Pipes or Seals

Check under your sink to locate loose pipes or seals. People usually store items under the sink, which sometimes hit the garbage disposal pipes. Pipes may become loose if you keep a lot of things under your sink.

You should tighten the bolts to stop leaks due to loose pipes. But if the problem continues, get a new putty sealing ring.

Dishwasher Connection

Your garbage disposal might be leaking from the dishwasher connection to the drainpipe. Due to loose or possibly cracked hoses, water starts to leak. To fix this, try to secure the hose. But if the leaking continues, you will have to replace the hose.

Loose Drain Lines

Your garbage disposal unit might leak from the drain lines. When you look at the spot when garbage disposal meets the lines, you’ll notice a thick sewer disposal line and a thin dishwasher disposal line.

If the garbage disposal is dripping from this spot, secure the clamp holding the garbage disposal to the dishwasher via a screwdriver. You can also tighten the screws on the thin dishwasher disposal line.

Reset Button

Is your garbage disposal old? Check the reset button for leaks. If you find a leaking reset button, don’t waste your money on fixing the problem. Now, it’s time to say goodbye to your old garbage disposal and get a new one. 

But what if your garbage disposal is new? You can get the leaking reset button fixed as long as the warranty covers the product. The manufacturer will probably offer repair services. But after the warranty period, you will have to call a plumber.

Can’t figure out what’s wrong with your garbage disposal?

Contact Kwik Plumbers. Our licensed plumbers have years of experience, and they can tell you what’s wrong with your garbage disposal in no time. We can repair your garbage disposal and even install a new one.

Call 561-627-2244 or fill out a contact form today.