Garbage Disposal Repairs

Garbage disposals are one of the best kitchen appliances that were ever invented. We often overlook how much we appreciate it until it starts to leak. Not only can a leaking garbage disposal lead to obnoxious smells and general inconvenience, but it can also lead to the much larger problem of water damage. Here we discuss the distinct types of leaks, their causes, and if you need a garbage disposal repair.

Types Of Leaks

Any garbage disposal leak is a huge inconvenience. Still, it is crucial to be able to diagnose what type of leak your disposal has to determine if you need a repair.

Top Leaks
If you discover your garbage disposal is leaking from the top, there is likely a problem with the sink flange or plumber’s putty.
This connector is the visible part of the disposal, which connects with the sink. Often, this occurs as the flange corrodes or loosens over time. If it connects with putty, it can begin to dry-out or stretch over time.

Bottom Leaks
If you discover your garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, the seal inside the disposal itself is likely damaged or broken.
You will notice this leaking most concentrated by the reset button of the disposal. Often, this occurs as the garbage disposal begins to break down over time, as they usually last between 5 and 10 years.

Side Leaks
If you discover your garbage disposal is leaking from the side, it is likely that the drain hose connecting your dishwasher to the garbage disposal or the garbage disposal to the main sewer line has become loose or unsealed.

Usually, the dishwasher connects with a metal clamp while the mainline connects with screws and a gasket.

Repairing Leaks
If you find that the cause of your leaking garbage disposal is above, chances are there is a simple fix. Of course, it is always recommended to contact a professional plumber to keep yourself and your appliances safe.

Top Leak Repair
If your garbage disposal is leaking from the top, it is often one of the most straightforward fixes.
First, you must determine if your disposal is attached to the sink by flange or plumber’s putty. If it is connected with putty, it is necessary to remove the disposal to clean off the old putty and attach new putty, then reinstall the garbage disposal.

If the disposal connects with a flange, it could be as simple as tightening the screws. Often, though, the flange will need a replacement – which requires a plumber.

Bottom Leak Repair

If your garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, it often means unwelcomed news.
Most likely, you will find yourself needing to replace the entire disposal as a busted seal on the inside is often more trouble than purchasing a new garbage disposal would be.
It is usually common that if there is one broken seal, there are others. Between the effort of repair and the relatively low cost of a new unit, most people find a full replacement a more beneficial and long-lasting solution.

Side Leak Repair

If your garbage disposal is leaking from the side, it can be a simple fix.
Much like with top leaks, the solution could be as easy as tightening or replacing the screws and clamps. To do so, take a screwdriver and tighten down the screws to see if that stops the leaking. Replacing the mainline gasket is another possibility.

Call A Professional

While some of the solutions for leaking garbage disposals may sound like a quick do-it-yourself project, it is extremely easy to become overwhelmed.