Why is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?
The garbage disposal can at times truly be a nice luxury to have. Making for easier cleanup and simpler removal for select food waste, the convenience in some respects is undeniable. As is the case with any plumbing appliance, however, there can be issues if the performance of the disposal is in some way hindered. This can lead to your Garbage Disposal Leaking.
In the case that you find your Garbage Disposal Leaking, it could be due to multiple causes. While there could obviously be another factor in your Garbage Disposal Leaking, below, we will walk you through several things to look for. These items include where you see the Garbage Disposal Leaking, a probable cause for this, and if possible a remedy.
When You See the Garbage Disposal Leaking From its Top
The garbage disposal usually connects to your sink by the flange and plumber’s putty. This leakage occurs here somewhat commonly if the connection between the sink drains and sink flange is not tight enough. The problem can also persist if the connection between the drain and flange has become corroded over time.
Remedies When Probable Cause is Loose Sink Flange
- Check the mounting bolts connecting the drain and flange to be sure they are tight enough
- Be sure that the plumber’s putty that is helping seal the disposal in place is not in any way compromised. If it is just loosen the bolts, add new putty, and retighten the bolts back in place
You Notice the Garbage Disposal Leaking from its Side
In many kitchens, the drain pipe coming from a dishwasher connects to your garbage disposal. When functioning normally and properly that drain line connection removes excess food debris and water from the dishwasher into the garbage disposal. If for some reason this pipe has an obstruction or is loosely connected, this can explain your Garbage Disposal Leaking.
Remedies When Probable Cause is the Drain Line Connection
- Your main drain line connects on the inside by a rubber gasket and screws. If the metal clamp connecting the dishwasher to the disposal is loose, tighten with a screwdriver and say goodbye to your Garbage Disposal Leaking
- The hose connecting the dishwasher and disposal may also be an issue. Look for cracks or dried-out areas in this connection. If there is any damage to the hose, you can end the Garbage Disposal Leaking by getting a replacement hose.
If the Garbage Disposal Leaking is Coming from Its Bottom
One thing that can happen with almost any product or appliance is it can simply get old. Thus, the Garbage Disposal Leaking that you’re seeing may be the result of age. In actuality, if you see leakage just at the bottom and no drips from above, it is usually the disposal being worn out. Causing this is that internal seals simply deteriorate over time.
Remedies When Probable Cause is a Busted Internal Seal
- Inspect the actual body of your disposal. If you’re seeing Garbage Disposal Leakage, find cracks or wet spots to know exactly where. Again, those internal seals if worn out can eventually lead to these type of leaks. In this case, replace worn seals.
- Keep an eye out for the positioning of your garbage disposal under your sink. It is possible that it may have been bumped or shifted out of place. If it has, check the seals and putty and realign as needed to stop the Garbage Disposal Leaking.
As you may now realize, there are a variety of reasons you may see your Garbage Disposal Leaking. Hopefully, from our information provided, you can now recognize that there is a leak and identify where it is on the disposal. Likewise, with the suggested remedies, you should be able to in many cases fix the problem.
If for any reason you are not comfortable fixing or feel something else is causing the leaks, give us a call. Just visit poolesplumbing.com to contact the most trusted name in Raleigh area plumbers and we’re happy to help solve all your plumbing problems.
