What You Need to Know About a Leaky Garbage Disposal

If you notice water pooling under your sink, you may have a leaking garbage disposal. There are several places where a garbage disposal can leak, including the top, the bottom, and near the pipe connections. If you see condensation or water near these parts of the garbage disposal, you need to address it right away.

Here are some things you need to know if you suspect your garbage disposal is leaking.

Where Is the Leak Coming From?

Garbage disposals leak from different sources. One possibility is the sink flange on the top of the disposal. The sink flange connects the disposal to the sink where water enters. If you have a dishwasher, there is a plastic hose that connects the dishwasher to the garbage disposal where a leak can occur.

The leak may also come from the drain line connection. The drain line connection is found on the side of the garbage disposal. This line connects the garbage disposal to the main drain pipe. The reset button near the bottom of the garbage disposal is also a place where you may experience leaks.

What Causes Garbage Disposal Leaks?

The cause of the leak also depends on the location of the leak. If the leak is near the sink flange, the bolts used to install the disposal may become rusty or start to become loose, which can cause the water to leak out. Plumber's putty used to help seal the flange can also deteriorate, which can result in leaks.

If your dishwasher hose is leaking, the screws connecting it to the garbage disposal may have become loose. The screws can become loose with normal daily use or if the screws begin to rust.

If you notice leaking near the drain line, the screws that secure the garbage disposal may have worn out. There is also a rubber gasket near the mounting assembly that may have started to leak.

If there is a leak near the reset button or in any other area close to the bottom of the garbage disposal, the seal located inside the disposal may be worn out. This occurs as the garbage disposal ages.

How Do You Repair a Leaking Garbage Disposal?

Once you know where the leak is coming from, you can then deal with the issue. Repairing a garbage disposal is typically an easy task you may be able to take care of yourself if you can do routine home maintenance.

If the issue is with your sink flange, remove the bolts and look for any deterioration or rust. You can replace them with new bolts. Scrape off any plumber's putty and apply a new coat to help reseal the flange.

When your disposal leaks from the dishwasher connection, you can first try to tighten the screws that connect the hose and the disposal. If the screws do not tighten, you should try to replace them to ensure you have a tight seal. If the screws are not the problem, the dishwasher connection hose may have a leak. If this is the issue, you need to replace the hose.

If the drain line connection is the problem, you can try to tighten the connection between the garbage disposal and the pipe. If that does not help, you can loosen and reattach the pipe. You may also need to replace the gasket inside the connection to see if that resolves the problem.

If your leak is coming from the reset button or anywhere near the bottom of the garbage disposal, it is time to install a new unit. Once an internal seal wears out, there is a clear indication the rest of the seals inside will eventually begin to leak as well.

If you have any questions about your garbage disposal issues or you have other plumbing needs, please contact the professionals at Mike's Plumbing for assistance.