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If you notice water collecting under your kitchen sink or unpleasant odors coming from it, there’s a good chance your garbage disposal is leaking. Don’t panic. With our plumbing expertise, we’re here to answer the question, “Why is my garbage disposal leaking?”

In this guide, we will list steps to remedy the issue. Understanding the signs of a leaky garbage disposal and its common causes is the first step in preventing more serious problems, such as electrical hazards, mold, and water damage.

Why is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?

A leaky garbage disposal can be caused by various factors. Let’s examine five common causes.

• Internal Damage: Internal damage to a garbage disposal is often the worst-case scenario. This type of damage is most likely tied to the garbage disposal's seals and often requires a complete system replacement instead of repairs.
• Worn or Damaged Seals: Garbage disposals have a rubber seal that connects to the flange component. When this seal is worn out or damaged, the garbage disposal can begin to leak.
• Loose Drain Lines: Tight connections are crucial for preventing leaks in numerous types of plumbing systems. Garbage disposal leaking is more likely to occur when the drain line connections are loose.
• Worn-out Gaskets: Be mindful of your garbage disposal’s gaskets. These gaskets sit around the blades and can become worn out over time, causing a leak. A worn-out gasket isn’t as complicated as other issues and can be easily replaced.
• Corrosion: Regular garbage disposal usage leads to natural wear and tear, resulting in corrosion and rust. The longer corrosion and rust are neglected, the more likely a leak can manifest. Depending on the extent of the corrosion, the entire disposal might need to be replaced.

Common Leak Locations and How to Fix Them

Where the garbage disposal leak originates depends on the type of issue. Let’s look at the most common garbage disposal leak locations and how to respond to these occasional kitchen plumbing problems.

Garbage Disposal Leaking from Bottom

A garbage disposal leaking from the bottom is usually the result of worn-out internal seals. If you notice this type of leak, you’ll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. This is especially true when the leak is coming from the reset button.

Garbage Disposal Leaking from Top

A garbage disposal leaking from the top is likely due to a loose sink flange. This component connects your garbage disposal to your sink drain.

For this type of leak, start by tightening the mounting bolts and making sure the putty surrounding the flange isn’t jeopardized. If it is, reseal it with new putty.

Garbage Disposal Leaking from Side

When a garbage disposal is leaking from the side, it’s usually caused by a loose drain line. Two drain lines are connected to the disposal—one to the dishwasher and one to the sewer to drain waste. Each is connected by a metal clamp.

In this situation, simply try tightening the screws of the metal clamps. If that doesn’t resolve the leaking issue, replace the rubber gasket.

Need Help with a Leaky Garbage Disposal? We're Just a Call Away

Is your garbage disposal leaking? Turn to the plumbing professionals at Chapman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our garbage disposal services are backed by experience and proven methods.

We repair, replace, and maintain plumbing issues of all kinds in Indianapolis and areas of the greater Central Indiana region like Carmel, Fishers, Avon, Plainfield, Lebanon, Broad Ripple, Camby, Westfield, Fortville, Franklin, Greenwood, and many more!
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