Is Your Garbage Disposal Leaking? Here's Why

Is your garbage disposal leaking, but you can't spot the culprit? Well, checking a garbage disposal is a bit complex because the problem could be due to various reasons. In this guide, we’ll explain the possible causes of your leaking garbage disposal and provide a solution on how to fix the issue.

Take a look at the info below to learn what might be causing the problem:

Leaking Sink Flange

The sink flange is located towards the highest point of the garbage disposal. It's the area where the sink and the drain meet together. If you notice water leaking in this spot, it's because you have a faulty flange. Normally, this occurs as a result of loose mounting bolts or fragile putty.

Garbage disposal leaking can also happen due to a weak dishwasher connection to the drain pipe. The dishwasher transfers bits of food into the unit, but leaks can occur when there are loose or split hoses.

In this situation, the garbage disposal replacement should be a new hose.

Worn Gaskets

Garbage disposal leaking could be because of worn gasket. It's located between the seal and the sink flange. As you're checking your garbage disposal, if you see any waste or discharge dripping, it's because you have a faulty gasket.

After operating for several years, most garbage disposal gaskets will eventually start to wear out and become weak. As a result, it'll drip water.

Also, keep in mind that if you barely use your disposal, it causes the gasket to dry up and eventually leak.

Loose Drain Lines

When you're having issues with your garbage disposal unit, it might be because of the drain lines. Take a look at the unit in the area where the lines meet. There are two lines that you'll see: a thick one which is the sewer disposal line and a small one that's the dishwasher disposal line.

If you notice any drips, the problem can usually be taken care of by tightening the clamp and securing it back into place.

Reset Button Leaks

If you notice your garbage disposal leaking from the reset button, it's probably because the unit is old and needs to be replaced. In this circumstance, there is no easy fix. Call Mr. Rooter to take care of it for you.

Damaged Discharge Pipe

When you can't figure out where your garbage disposal is leaking from, check the discharge pipe. This pipe is attached to the sink, but it's prone to wear and tear.

The leaking issue is also likely to persist if there's loose plumbing. You'll need to change the seal between the discharge pipe and the holding nut if the problem continues.

Ways to Prevent Garbage Disposal Leaks

The truth is, sometimes garbage disposals stop working. While you may only encounter minor issues, the majority of the time it requires the help of a professional plumber like Mr. Rooter.

If your garbage disposal is faulty, it's best to have an expert fix it, rather than doing it yourself. Not only can a professional correct the issue, but they’ll also spot any other problems that could lead to future damage.

Speaking of damage, it’s important to preserve the life of your garbage disposal. Here are some tips to prevent disposal leaks and other issues from occurring:

Put Large Pieces of Food in the Trash

Although garbage disposals are supposed to get rid of food, you never want to put large bulks of food down the disposal. Put the majority of your meal in the trash and only allow small bits to go down the drain.

This also goes for hard items. Things like bones or seeds must go in the trash.

Use Cold Water

As you're flushing food down the disposal, use cold water. Allow the faucet to run for 30 to 60 seconds as you’re running the grinder. Doing so helps to push the food particles down the drain, and it lubricates the grinder blades so food doesn't get stuck.

You also want to use cold water so that it doesn't create melted fat. If you use hot water, the fat will melt and eventually solidify within the pipes once it cools. This eventually causes the pipes to clog up.

Don't Put Starchy Food Into the Grinder

Foods that are full of starch or have thick fibers can clog your garbage disposal. The fibers can wrap around the blades and the starch eventually becomes hardened.

Foods like banana peels, onions, seeds, and celery need to go in the garbage, not the disposal. This principle also applies to eggshells.

Clean Your Disposal on a Routine Basis

Regularly cleaning your disposal is the best way to prevent leaks. Take the time to pour lemon juice or vinegar down the drain to make the area smell better and break up food particles.

It's also a good idea to put ice over the grinder blades to help remove food. Doing so allows the edge to grind the food waste properly.

Is Your Garbage Disposal Leaking? Let Us Help

Garbage disposal leaking issues are a hassle. Most of the time when these circumstances arise, it requires the help of a professional. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has the knowledge and expertise to take care of your repair needs with ease.

Not only will we fix your garbage disposal and leaky pipes, but we also provide services for clogged drains, sewer line repair, water heater repair, and so much more.

If you have questions, call us or request a job estimate online.

We're here to correct all of your plumbing problems!