The garbage disposal is a handy kitchen device that makes disposing food waste as easy as putting it down the drain and turning on the motor. But garbage disposals are like any other kitchen appliance. They wear out and break over time. One of the more common garbage disposal issues is leaking.
Wetness under the garbage disposal is a sure sign that it has a leak. Running your hand over the unit could confirm a leak if you feel water. But it turns out that discovering a leak is easier than actually fixing it. To fix it, you have to find it. And because there are so many parts that could potentially leak, finding the source of the problem is not as easy as it sounds.
With moderate DIY skills and a little bit of patience, you can figure out why your garbage disposal is leaking. However, don’t be afraid to call in a professional if you do not have confidence in your skills. Plumbing contractors like West Haven Utah’s Comfort Solutions are happy to help with leaky garbage disposals.
The Preliminaries
Before you take things apart under the sink, there are some preliminaries. Perhaps you’ve already noticed dampness or pooled water in the cabinet’s base. But maybe not.
Dripping sounds when running the water and bad odors under the sink are two additional signs that your garbage disposal might be leaking. Place a sink stopper in place and fill the sink with a few inches of water. Then remove the stopper and watch what happens. Observe the garbage disposal and plumbing to see if any water drips.
The location of any leaking water will point you in the right direction in terms of finding the cause. So note where the water is coming from.
Potential Leak Locations
Although lots of parts in the system can ultimately spring a leak, they are well defined and unambiguous. This allows for a systematic approach to discovering the source of a leak. Comfort Solutions says the most common leak locations are:
- Sink flanges (connect the garbage disposal to the sink)
- Side connections (connecting the unit to the drain line)
- Bottom housing (indicates an internal seal failure)
Unfortunately, an internal seal failure is probably not something you can fix on your own. Many modern units need to be replaced entirely when such a failure occurs. Those that can be repaired require professional service.
Dig a Little Deeper
If putting water in the sink and observing the garbage disposal while it drains doesn’t reveal the source of the leak, you will have to dig a little deeper. Get a flashlight and carefully inspect the unit for cracks, loose screws, and potentially bad gaskets. Also check the clamps that hold the unit together.
Over many years of use, it is possible for both screws and clamps to loosen. You would end up with a not-so-tight seal prone to leaks.
You might also try the paper towel test. Systematically dab plumbing connections, seals, and flanges with a dry paper towel. The paper towel will pick up even the slightest bit of water. By dabbing and checking the paper towel after each dab, you can pinpoint the location of water you might not be able to see otherwise.
Some leaks are only detectable when the garbage disposal is actually running. So as long as it is safe, turn on the water and run it. While it’s running, look things over carefully with a flashlight. If you try all the suggestions and still can’t find the leak, it is time to call a plumber.