A leaking garbage disposal might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can quickly lead to bigger headaches—think water damage, mold growth, and unpleasant odors lingering in your kitchen. Spotting the problem early—whether it’s just a faint drip or a steady stream—can spare you a lot of hassle and save your money.
So, how do you know your garbage disposal is leaking? Start by watching for these telltale signs:
- Water pooling under your kitchen sink.
- Musty or moldy smells.
- Dripping noises when the disposal is running—or even when it’s off.
- Visible water damage or corrosion on or around the unit.
- Food particles or grease leaking out beneath the sink.
If any of these sound familiar, don’t panic—this guide will walk you through common causes, how to locate the leak, and what to do next.
What Causes Garbage Disposal Leakage?
Your garbage disposal works hard, but like anything in the kitchen, it can wear out—especially if it wasn’t installed quite right or hasn’t had much TLC over the years. Here are the most common culprits:
- Worn-out seals or gaskets: Those rubber or silicone rings that keep water in? They don’t last forever. When they fail, leaks follow.
- Loose connections: The constant vibration of a working disposal can shake fittings and clamps loose.
- Corrosion: Old units, especially those exposed to moisture, can rust or crack, creating escape routes for water.
- Cracks in the body: A dropped pan, a hidden flaw, or just old age—any of these can leave your disposal with a fatal crack.
- Improper installation: A poorly fitted flange or drainpipe can create a weak point for leakage.
Identify the Location of the Garbage Disposal Leak
First things first: figure out exactly where the water’s coming from. Each location usually points to a different issue—and solution.
1. Garbage Disposal Leaking from Bottom
Probable cause
When I’ve seen water leaking from the bottom of a garbage disposal—especially around the reset button or where the cord comes out—it’s almost always because the seals inside have finally worn out. It’s a common issue with older units.
How to fix:
Unfortunately, once internal seals start failing, there’s no easy patch. The most effective solution here is to replace the entire unit. Attempting to repair leaking garbage disposal seals at the bottom usually leads to temporary fixes at best. If you notice your garbage disposal leaking from bottom when dishwasher runs, this reinforces the need for a professional evaluation.
Ben’s Plumbing can help you select and install a new disposal quickly and efficiently—no stress, no mess. We make kitchen upgrades simple and budget-friendly.
2. Garbage Disposal Leaking from Top
Probable cause
A top leak usually points to a problem with the sink flange—the piece that connects the disposal to the drain opening. Over time, the sealant or plumber’s putty can dry out and crack, resulting in a garbage disposal leaking from sink flange.
How to fix:
- Turn off the power to the unit.
- Loosen the mounting assembly.
- Remove the old flange and clean the sink opening.
- Apply fresh plumber’s putty or garbage disposal sealant.
- Reinstall the flange and reattach the disposal.
If you’re unsure how to tighten garbage disposal flange properly, give Ben’s Plumbing a call—we’ve resealed thousands of disposals and can get yours leak-free in no time.
3. Garbage Disposal Leaking from Side
Probable cause
Noticed a leak coming from the side? Nine times out of ten, it’s something simple—just the dishwasher hose or the drainpipe connection needing a bit of tightening or a new gasket. It’s a common issue, and a quick check there can often solve the problem.
How to fix:
- Inspect the dishwasher hose connection and the rubber gasket.
- Tighten any loose clamps or screws.
- Replace damaged gaskets or hose connectors.
- Ensure everything is properly aligned and sealed.
Side leaks are often an easy fix, but if you’ve tightened every clamp and the water keeps coming, it’s probably time to call in the pros who’ve seen it all before. Our experts at Ben’s Plumbing can get to the root of the problem and stop the leak fast.
What to Do to Prevent Future Leaks?
A little maintenance goes a long way. Want your garbage disposal to last? Here’s how:
- Run cold water every time you use it—this helps keep oils from sticking to the pipes.
- Avoid tossing in hard or stringy foods like bones, corn husks, or fruit pits; they can wreak havoc on the internal parts.
- Clean the unit gently—ice cubes and citrus peels can freshen things up, but steer clear of harsh chemical cleaners.
- Check the seals once a year for signs of wear or looseness. And don’t let it sit idle—like a car, your disposal benefits from regular use.
Having a plumber take a look during an annual plumbing inspection catch tiny issues before they turn into a full-blown headache. Ben’s Plumbing even offers maintenance plans, so you can forget about it and let the pros handle the dirty work.
What to Do If It Is Not Possible to Eliminate the Leak Yourself?
You’ve tightened every clamp, replaced every gasket, and resealed every joint, but the leak persists. Now what? That’s your cue to call in a professional. Persistent leaks, water damage under the sink, or visible corrosion inside the unit are all signs it’s time for expert help. Don’t risk making things worse—or creating an electrical hazard—by pushing your luck.
Ben’s Plumbing specializes in diagnosing and repairing every kind of garbage disposal leak. Whether it’s the drain pipe, the bottom screw, or the power cord, they’ve seen it all—and fixed it all. Don’t wait for a minor leak to turn into a kitchen flood. Call Ben’s Plumbing and get it fixed right, the first time.
