Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?

A leaking garbage disposal is one of those messy household problems that can sneak up on you. You might notice water pooling under the sink, a strange drip, or an unpleasant odor — all signs that something’s not quite right. The good news? Most disposal leaks are fixable once you know where they’re coming from.

Here’s a breakdown of why your garbage disposal might be leaking and what you can do about it.

1. Leak from the Top – Sink Flange Issues

If you see water dripping from the top of your garbage disposal (where it connects to the sink drain), the problem might be with the sink flange — the metal ring that seals the disposal to the sink. Over time, the plumber’s putty or mounting bolts can loosen or wear out, allowing water to escape.

Fix: Tighten the mounting bolts or reapply plumber’s putty to reseal the connection.

2. Leak from the Side – Dishwasher or Discharge Hose Connections

If water is dripping from the side of the disposal, check the dishwasher hose or discharge drain line connections. These hoses can loosen or crack over time, especially if the clamps holding them in place wear down.

Fix: Tighten or replace the hose clamps, and inspect the hoses for cracks or damage.

3. Leak from the Bottom – Internal Seal Failure

If the water is dripping from the very bottom of your disposal, the internal seal or bearing inside the unit has likely failed. Unfortunately, these parts aren’t easily repaired – and this usually means it’s time for a fixture replacement.

Fix: If your disposal is older than 8–10 years or has frequent problems, replacing it is often the most cost-effective solution.

4. Rust and Wear Over Time

Garbage disposals handle a lot of moisture and food waste, which means corrosion can occur over the years. Rust or cracks in the housing can lead to persistent leaks that only worsen with time.

Fix: Regularly inspect under your sink for moisture and rust, and replace the unit if you see significant damage.

5. Loose or Worn Gaskets

Sometimes the issue is as simple as a worn rubber gasket between connections. These seals can flatten, crack, or shift after years of use or improper installation.

Fix: Replace the rubber gasket — a simple and inexpensive repair that can prevent bigger problems down the road.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re unsure where the leak is coming from, it’s best to turn off the power to the disposal and call a licensed plumber. A professional can quickly identify the problem, repair or replace parts, and prevent water damage to your cabinets or flooring.

Prevent Future Leaks

Avoid putting fibrous foods, grease, or bones down the drain.
Run cold water while using the disposal to help solidify fats and prevent clogs.
Inspect hoses and seals periodically for wear.

Count on Indiana Leak Detection

If your garbage disposal is leaking, clogged, or making strange noises, the team at Indiana Leak Detection is here to help. With years of trusted service, we’ll diagnose the issue and get your kitchen back in working order fast.

Call us today at (317) 497-0024 for reliable garbage disposal repair or replacement!

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