A garbage disposal usually leaks from one of four places: the sink flange at the top, the dishwasher hose connection on the side, the drain pipe connection, or a crack in the disposal body itself. Where the water appears helps you tell which one.
Leaks at the Top
The sink flange is the metal ring inside the sink drain. It is sealed with plumber’s putty or a gasket. Vibration from the disposal can loosen it over time. If water drips from the top of the disposal when the sink is full, the flange seal may have failed.
Leaks on the Side
Two pipes connect to the side of many disposals: the dishwasher drain hose and the drain line to the trap. A loose clamp on the dishwasher hose can leak when the dishwasher drains. A worn gasket at the drain connection can drip when the sink empties.
Leaks From the Bottom
Water dripping from the bottom of the unit often means the disposal’s internal seals have worn out or the housing has cracked. This usually cannot be repaired, and the disposal needs to be replaced.
How to Check Safely
- Turn off and unplug the disposal or switch off its power at the wall switch before reaching under the sink
- Empty the cabinet and dry the disposal with a towel
- Put a few drops of food coloring in the sink water and let it drain
- Watch with a flashlight to see where colored water appears
Never put your hand inside the disposal.
Disposal leaks soak cabinet bottoms and can spread to the floor. Leaks near the disposal’s electrical connection add a safety risk, so keep the area dry and the unit switched off until it is fixed.
If the leak is at a connection or the unit itself, getting the disposal leak repaired protects your cabinet. For other kitchen drain problems, you can schedule a kitchen plumbing visit at (833) 603-1840.