Today, I want to write about a common kitchen issue homeowners deal with– leaking garbage disposals.
Without proper maintenance, your garbage disposal will become less effective over time, its parts will stop doing their job, and leaks can occur. Not only does a leaking garbage disposal make a mess under your kitchen sink, it can cause water damage if you don’t catch it quickly.
Let’s dive into this and look at how to prevent a leaking garbage disposal, what to do if it happens, and when to call for help.
Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Leaking from Bottom
In my experience as a journeyman plumber, there are two common reasons a garbage disposal will start leaking. Identifying these issues early can save you a lot of hassle.
The most common cause is wear and tear. Nothing lasts forever, and your disposal is no exception. The seals and gaskets that are crucial for keeping things watertight will lose their integrity over time.
Then, there’s the disposal housing. If you try to dispose of food that’s too tough, or something falls into the garbage disposal that shouldn’t be there, like kitchen utensils, they can cause a crack in the housing of your garbage disposal unit. This might not look like much, and you might not even be able to see it, but it can be the source of your leaking garbage disposal.
Immediate Steps to Take When You Notice a Leak
As soon as you notice a leak, the first step to take for your safety and to prevent further damage is to shut off the power and water supply to the disposal.
Then, clean up any pools of water immediately. If the leak continues, place a bucket, Tupperware container, or Pyrex baking dish underneath to catch the dripping water until you or your plumber fix the issue.
Diagnosing the Leak
Before doing any diagnosis, make sure the garbage disposal power source is disconnected. Water, electricity, and sharp blades are a dangerous combination, so safety first.
Once that’s done, it’s time to get under the sink and investigate. Is the water dripping directly from the bottom of the disposal, or is it a connection issue? Finding the exact source is crucial in determining your next steps.
DIY Fixes vs. Professional Repair
Everyone loves the feeling of a successful DIY project, but with plumbing, you have to know your limits.
Simple fixes like tightening loose connections or replacing an old gasket are usually safe for DIYers.
However, if the issue is a crack in the disposal body or something more complex, it’s best to leave it to a professional. The risk of complicating the issue is real, and sometimes, a DIY fix can cost more in the long run.
Prevention Tips
Your best bet at preventing a leaking garbage disposal is regular maintenance. Not only will it prolong the life of your disposal, but it will also prevent leaks and other issues. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years that can help you avoid the headache of a leaky disposal:
- Schedule annual maintenance with a professional. At Sacramento Plumbing Solutions, we offer maintenance services that include thoroughly inspecting and cleaning your garbage disposal, ensuring it operates efficiently and prolongs its lifespan.
- Keep your disposal clean using natural cleaners like vinegar and baking sods. After use, run cold water through it for about a minute to flush out any remaining food particles.
- Watch What You Dispose. Avoid hard objects like avocado pits and corn husks, be careful that utensils don’t fall into the garbage disposal, and definitely no grease or oil. These can damage the blades and clog the pipes, leading to leaks and other nightmares.
- Every few months, take a moment to inspect your garbage disposal. Look for signs of wear and tear, and replace any parts that look like they’re deteriorating, especially around the seals and gaskets.
- Avoid overloading your garbage disposal by feeding small amounts of waste and giving it time to grind completely. It’s not a trash can. Overloading it can cause jams and motor burnout and cause your garbage disposal to leak from bottom.
- Always use cold water when running the garbage disposal. It solidifies any grease or oils, making it easier for the garbage disposal to break them down and flush them out.
- Keep the blades sharp and effective by running a few ice cubes through the garbage disposal.
Contact Us if Your Garbage Disposal is Leaking
I hope you’ve found this advice practical. Remember, well-maintained disposals are the key to a smoothly-running kitchen, and we’re always here to help. So, next time your disposal gives you trouble, or if you need expert advice, give us a shout.
At Sacramento Plumbing Solutions, we build relationships with our community through trust, quality service, and a friendly approach. Whether it’s a small leak or a major plumbing overhaul, we’re committed to making sure your home plumbing meets the highest expectations.
