Water Dripping from Garbage Disposal? Causes & Fixes

A leaking garbage disposal can be a frustrating and messy problem to deal with.
But before you call a plumber, it’s essential to identify the root cause of the issue.
Here are some common causes of a leaking garbage disposal:

• Worn-out or damaged gaskets: Over time, the gaskets in your garbage disposal can wear out or become damaged, leading to leaks.
  Check your gaskets regularly and replace them if necessary.
• Loose or corroded mounting hardware: If the mounting hardware that holds your garbage disposal in place becomes loose or corroded, it can cause leaks.
  Check the mounting hardware and tighten any loose screws or replace corroded parts.
• Clogged or blocked drains: A clogged or blocked drain can cause water to back up and leak from your garbage disposal.
  Run hot water through the disposal to clear any blockages, and consider using a drain snake or plumber’s auger to clear stubborn clogs.
• Improper installation: If your garbage disposal was not installed correctly, it can lead to leaks and other issues.
  Check the installation manual and ensure that the disposal is properly secured to the sink.
• Worn-out or damaged impellers: The impellers in your garbage disposal can wear out or become damaged over time, leading to leaks.
  Check the impellers regularly and replace them if necessary.

Now that you’ve identified the cause of the issue, it’s time to fix it.
Here are some steps you can take to repair a leaking garbage disposal:

• Turn off the power: Before you start any repairs, make sure to turn off the power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
• Disconnect the disposal: Disconnect the garbage disposal from the sink and any other connected pipes.
• Replace the gaskets or mounting hardware: If the issue is due to worn-out or damaged gaskets or mounting hardware, replace them with new ones.
• Clear any blockages: If the issue is due to a clogged or blocked drain, run hot water through the disposal to clear any blockages.
• Reassemble the disposal: Once you’ve made the necessary repairs, reassemble the disposal and turn the power back on.

Preventing a leaking garbage disposal is easier than fixing one.
Here are some tips to help you maintain a functional and efficient garbage disposal:

• Run hot water through the disposal regularly: Running hot water through the disposal can help clear any blockages and keep the disposal running smoothly.
• Use a disposal cleaning product: Using a disposal cleaning product can help remove any grease or debris that may be clogging the disposal.
• Check the disposal regularly: Regularly check the disposal for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly.
• Consider upgrading to a newer model: If your garbage disposal is old or outdated, consider upgrading to a newer model that is more efficient and easier to maintain.