8 Reasons Your Garbage Disposal Is Leaking and How to Fix It

How to Fix It:

When the internal seals of a garbage disposal are compromised, replacing the entire unit is often a better choice than attempting a repair. A failing seal can signal that other components are also close to wearing out. Consider the age of your disposal: newer models may only need a simple reseal with plumber’s putty, but units over five years old could be facing more significant problems soon.

2. Worn Rubber Gasket

A rubber gasket sits between the sink flange and the seal in your garbage disposal to keep it watertight. Over time, this gasket can deteriorate—usually after about five years—leading to leaks from the bottom of the disposal.

How to Fix It:

Shine a flashlight to inspect the drain pipe, then carefully detach it to access the rubber gasket inside. If it shows signs of wear or damage, replace it with a new gasket, and firmly reconnect the drain pipe once the replacement is in position.

3. Loose Metal Clamp

Not all garbage disposal leaks come from the bottom; some appear along the sides. This is often caused by a loose metal clamp that secures the drain lines connecting the disposal to your sink or dishwasher. When these clamps loosen, water can escape and cause leaks.

How to Fix It

Before replacing any drain line components, inspect the metal clamp to see if it’s loose. Many leaks can be fixed simply by tightening the screws with a screwdriver. If the clamp is broken, installing a new one will usually resolve the problem.

4. Loose Drain Lines

Your garbage disposal connects to your kitchen plumbing with two distinct drain lines. One line links to the dishwasher, directing food scraps into the disposal, while the other carries waste from the disposal to the main sewer, ensuring proper drainage.

How to Fix It

Inspect the drain lines for signs of damage or deterioration, and replace them if needed. Keep in mind that the smaller line attaches to the dishwasher, while the larger one carries waste to the sewer. Choose replacements that match the correct sizes to prevent future leaks.

5. Defective Sink Flange

Sometimes a leak that looks like it’s coming from your garbage disposal actually originates higher up. The culprit can be the sink flange—the metal ring fitted into the drain opening. If the flange is loose or damaged, water can seep around it, making it seem like the leak is coming from the bottom of the disposal.

How to Fix It:

If the plumber’s putty around your sink flange has deteriorated or the mounting bolts have loosened, the leak can often be repaired without much trouble. Tightening loose bolts just requires a screwdriver. Replacing worn putty is more detailed: disconnect the garbage disposal, loosen the flange bolts, remove the clamp and flange, clean off the old putty, apply fresh putty, reinstall the flange, and finally reattach the disposal.

6. Corrosion

Metal components that frequently come into contact with water—especially salty water—can corrode over time, and garbage disposals are particularly at risk. The smaller metal parts in the motor and grinding mechanism are usually the first to show rust. Leaks can allow water to reach areas that are normally dry, potentially causing corrosion in other parts of the unit as well.

How to Fix It

Check your garbage disposal for rust. Minor surface rust can often be removed with an acidic solution such as vinegar. If the corrosion is extensive or involves internal parts, it’s safer to call an Appliance SD Repair technician, who can replace the affected components, most of which are typically inexpensive.

7. Impeller (Blade) Damage

The parts that grind food in a garbage disposal are not like traditional fan blades; they usually consist of two pieces that press food against a grinding surface. These components, called impellers, wear down faster than other parts because they endure the most force. Although replacing impellers is generally inexpensive, having a professional perform the repair is recommended for safety.

How to Fix It

Hiring a professional is recommended. Impellers are meant to handle food only, and a skilled technician can replace them efficiently—often in under an hour—saving you time and hassle.

8. Cracked Housing

A garbage disposal contains several parts that can deteriorate with age. Leaks can develop if the housing cracks due to heavy use, improper handling, or lack of maintenance. If your disposal is nearing ten years old and starts leaking, check the whole unit carefully for any signs of cracks.

How to Fix It

Cracks typically show up near the motor and seals, so begin your inspection there. Although epoxy can provide a temporary patch, it usually isn’t a lasting solution. For older disposals, housing cracks are common, and replacing the entire unit is often the most reliable option.

When to Call a Pro for a Garbage Disposal Leak

Minor repairs, such as tightening bolts or swapping out a seal, can often be handled yourself. For major issues—like a cracked housing or broken blades—it’s safer to call an Appliance SD Repair specialist. Any electrical work should always be performed by a professional. Contact a local plumbing repair expert for estimates and to discuss your options.