Why is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?
If you have a garbage disposal, chances are good that you’ve had to deal with a garbage disposal leaking issue at some point. And while a little leak might not seem like a big deal, it can be dangerous. Water and electrical appliances don’t mix well, so even a tiny amount of water can cause severe damage to your disposal (and your home).
So why exactly does a garbage disposal leak? There are a few different reasons, but the most common one is wear and tear. Over time, the seals and gaskets at your disposal can break down, allowing water to seep. This will be especially true if you use your disposal frequently or put challenging items down the drain (like bones or coffee grounds).
Another possible reason for a leak is that your disposal isn’t installed correctly. This is quite common, so it’s always a good idea to have a professional look at your disposal to ensure everything is in its proper place.
Finally, something is also possibly blocking the drain of your garbage disposal, and if this is the case, water will build up in the removal and eventually start leaking out. The best way to deal with this issue is to remove whatever is blocking the drain and run some water through the disposal to ensure everything is clear.
If you’re dealing with leaking garbage disposal, don’t panic. There are many different things you can do to fix the problem. First, try tightening the bolts that hold the removal in place. This might stop the leak, at least temporarily.
So, if that doesn’t work, you can try using some plumber’s putty to seal any cracks or gaps around the disposal. Be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully, as too much putty can cause more leaks.
So finally, if all else fails, you may need to replace your garbage disposal entirely. This is usually a last resort, but it may be necessary if your disposal is old or damaged beyond repair.
No matter what’s causing your garbage disposal to leak, it’s essential to deal with the issue as soon as possible. Water and electrical appliances don’t mix, so a small leak can cause significant damage. So, with a little bit of troubleshooting, you should be able to fix the problem and get your disposal back in working order in no time.
The garbage disposal can, at times, indeed be a nice luxury to have. Making for easier cleanup and more straightforward removal of select food waste, the convenience in some respects is undeniable. However, as with any plumbing appliance, there can be issues if the disposal performance is somehow hindered. This can lead to your Garbage Disposal Leaking.
If you find your Garbage Disposal Leaking, it could be due to multiple causes. While there could be another factor in your Garbage Disposal Leaking, we will walk you through several things to look for below. 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 is usually connected to your sink by the flange and plumber’s putty. Garbage Disposal Leaking 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 relationship between the drain and flange has become eroded 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 helping seal the disposal is not compromised. If it is, 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 from a dishwasher is connected to your garbage disposal. When functioning normally and adequately, that drain line connection removes excess food debris and water from the dishwasher into the garbage disposal. If for some reason, this pipe is obstructed or loosely connected, this can explain your Garbage Disposal Leaking.
Remedies When Probable Cause is the Drain Line Connection
• A rubber gasket and screws connect your main drain line. If the metal clamp connecting the dishwasher to the disposal is loose, tighten it with a screwdriver and say goodbye to your Garbage Disposal Leaking
• The hose connecting the dishwasher and disposal may also be the issue. Look for cracks or dried-out areas in this connection. So, 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 you’re seeing may result from age. In actuality, if you notice leakage just at the bottom and no drips from above, it is usually the disposal being worn out. Causing this is that internal seals 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 precisely where. Again, those internal seals, if worn out, can eventually lead to these types of leaks and must be replaced
• Keep an eye out for the positioning of your garbage disposal under your sink. It may have been bumped or shifted out of place. If it has, checks the seals and putty and realign as needed to stop the Garbage Disposal from Leaking.
As you may now realize, there are various reasons you may see your Garbage Disposal Leaking. Hopefully, from our information, you can now recognize 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 you are not comfortable fixing or feel something else is causing Garbage Disposal Leaking, give us a call.
Just visit poolesplumbing.com to contact the most trusted name in the Raleigh area, plumbers, and we’re happy to help solve all your plumbing problems.
