How to Fix a Leaking Garbage Disposal

How to Fix a Leaking Garbage Disposal 

A leaking garbage disposal can cause major problems for your home, like foul odours and sewage backup. It leaves you with an unexpected mess that prevents you from carrying out your daily tasks. 

But if you know how to fix any leaking garbage disposal, it could help you save time and take control of the situation before it gets out of hand. Before knowing the ways to fix the leaking garbage disposal, let us have a look at the reasons why your garbage disposal unit is leaking.  

Reasons for a Leaking Garbage Disposal 

Garbage disposals leaking from bottom have been a common problem in every home. It may be because: 

  1. The rubber gasket or seal has been damaged due to age, overuse, or improper installation.  
  1. The food particles have not been cleared from the disposal before turning it on.  
  1. There is a power outage or an overload on electricity in your home.  
  1. You have a faulty switch that shuts off power to your garbage disposal.  
  1. Your unit’s motor may be defective.  

How Can You Diagnose the Problem?   

The best way to solve the leaky garbage disposal problem is to diagnose it as soon as possible. For this, you can: 

  1. Examine the drain pipe under the sink for any uneven sounds, or check if the sink basin has leaks by filling it with water.  
  1. Look at the dishwasher connection from the bottom of the garbage disposal or from any of the water links in the wall.  
  1. Cross-check the inlet hose on top of the dishwasher by unplugging and then plugging it.  

You can diagnose the source of the leak and fix it yourself, or seek professional assistance if the problem persists. 

Different Types of Garbage Disposal Leaks and How to Fix Them?  

There are many different ways to fix a leaking garbage disposal. You can only fix the leak once you know where the leakage has been. There are three types of leaks. Let us check them out and find out how you can fix them. 

  1. Top Leak  
    If you find that the leakage is coming from the top, it will loosen up the sink brim, causing a foul smell. In this case, try removing the garbage disposal and clean off the food particles stuck to it. Now, replace the sink brim with a new one and seal it using plumber’s putty or any water tight seal compound.  
  1. Bottom Leak  
    If you find your garbage disposal leaking from the bottom, it means that the internal part of the disposal appliance has worn out with the seal. It happens due to usage that exceeds the warranty period, wrong handling, or increased food particle waste in the unit. Here you need to get your garbage disposal repair san Antonio or replace it with a new one as soon as possible.  
  1. Side Leak  
    Find out if the leakage is from the side clamps of the hose by thoroughly inspecting the inlet hose. If it leaks, try to tighten the clamps using the screwdriver.  

If none of these methods of fixing your garbage disposal work, reaching out to a best plumbing service provider in your area is recommended.  

Final Words  

A leaking garbage disposal is an inconvenience at best and a major problem at worst. If you notice water pooling under your sink, or if you hear strange sounds coming from the pipes in your kitchen sink, it is time to fix your garbage disposal unit.  

If you are looking for professional garbage disposal repair San Antonio, JC Plumbing Services provider is your best option. We have an expert team who can address any garbage disposal leaks 24/7.