Garbage Disposal Leaking Under the Sink
Likely causes
- ✓Worn sink flange seal at the top of the unit
- ✓Loose mounting bolts on the sink flange
- ✓Cracked disposal housing
- ✓Loose dishwasher inlet connection, if the dishwasher drains through the disposal
- ✓Worn drain pipe gasket or loose discharge tube
The short answer: the spot where it drips tells you the cause. A leak at the top is usually a worn flange seal. A leak at the side or bottom may mean a cracked housing.
Loose connections can be tightened.
What usually causes it
- Worn sink flange seal. Leaks at the top, around the drain.
- Loose mounting bolts. The flange gradually loosens.
- Cracked housing. The body leaks and needs replacement.
- Loose dishwasher inlet. Leaks at the side where the dishwasher drains in.
- Worn drain gasket or loose discharge tube. Leaks at the pipe joints.
What you can check yourself
- Dry everything and find the source. Put a paper towel underneath and run water to see where it drips.
- Check the top. A leak running down from the drain opening usually means the flange seal.
- Check the connections. Look at the dishwasher hose, discharge pipe and clamps for looseness.
- Look for cracks or rust. Water through the body or bottom means the housing is failing.
How to prevent it
- Don’t pour boiling water or harsh chemicals into the disposal.
- Run cold water when using it.
- Check under the sink for dampness occasionally.
When to call a technician
Call us if:
- Water comes through the body of the unit
- The leak continues after you tighten the connections
- The cabinet under the sink is damp or swollen
These repairs involve live voltage, gas or hidden parts, so we recommend leaving them to a professional.
Service call: $89, waived when you go ahead with the repair. Warranty: 90 days on every repair.
Frequently asked questions
Where is my garbage disposal leaking from?
Look at the top, the side and the bottom. The location tells you whether it's a seal, a connection or the housing.
Can a leaking disposal be repaired?
Often, if it's a seal or connection. A cracked housing means replacement.
What happens if I ignore a slow leak?
It can swell the cabinet floor and cause mold. Fix it early.
This is one of the issues covered under our Garbage Disposal Repair service.