A leaking
garbage disposal can be a real problem, but locating the source of the leak is the most challenging issue. Unless you can find and repair the leak, you can’t address the underlying problem and restore functionality to your kitchen. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to trace the source of a leak. There are usually four possible sources for a garbage disposal leak. So, here we will explore how to find and repair your leak.
Where to Start?
The chances are that your leak can be traced to the sink flange, the drain pipe, dishwasher hose or garbage disposal body. The easiest way to determine which area is the source of your leak is to wipe the entire unit completely. Make sure that even the attached drains are wiped down and then run the water and turn on your disposal. You should now be able to see where the water is coming from.
A Leaking Sink Flange
The sink flange is a waterproof seal connecting the drain to your sink. This is a metal device typically secured with a gasket and plumber’s putty. Unfortunately, over time the putty and gasket can wear out and allow water to leak. T
The simple solution to this problem is to replace the worn gasket and replace the plumber’s putty. You’ll need to remove the old putty and reapply a fresh layer, just be sure to remove any excess before you tighten the flange.
A Dishwasher Hose Leak
Dishwasher hoses pump food particles, water, and debris into your disposal from the dishwasher. There are two possible reasons why your dishwasher hose may be leaking; there is a loose connection or a crack in the hose.
The solution to these issues is to loosen and retighten the hose clamp. This will allow you to test if there is a bad connection. If the leak continues after you have done this, you are likely to have a damaged hose that will need to be replaced. You may be able to feel holes or tears by running your hand along the hose to feel any wet spots.
A Drain Pipe Leak
The drain pipe is where the waste particles are passed out of the disposal. If your drain pipe has developed a leak, you may have a cracked pipe or loose connection. You should try tightening the connection and checking for damage to the pipe. If water is leaking along the pipe, it is most likely to be a crack in the pipe that will need to be replaced.
A Leaking Disposal Body
If you notice that water is dripping from the bottom of the disposal body, there is a good chance your disposal itself has been damaged and is leaking. This may be a result of plumbing work, misuse or the wear and tear of age.
Unfortunately, in this situation, you will need to replace your garbage disposal. If you suspect the disposal is damaged, it may be worth checking your warranty, as a fairly new unit could be replaced or repaired under the warranty terms.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solution.
