PROBLEM:
Leaking Garbage Disposal
Leaks can occur at a number of places on a garbage disposer. Let's take a look at the most common:
Leak at the Sink Flange
- Turn off power to the disposal at the electrical service panel.
- At the disposer mount, turn the disposal clockwise to loosen and remove the unit from the mounting flange.
- Tighten the three mounting bolts.
- If the bolts are tight, the leak may be caused by failed plumbers putty. Loosen the bolts and push the sink flange slightly above the surface of the sink.
- Force plumbers putty between the sink flange and the sink, going completely around the flange.
- Tighten the mounting bolts drawing the sink flange tight to the sink surface. The putty will ooze out. Wipe away excess putty.
- Reinstall the disposal and turn power back on at the service panel.
- Check for leaks.
Leak at the Dishwasher Connection
- Tighten the clamp on the dishwasher hose connected to the dishwasher inlet on the disposer.
- Replace the hose if the hose is leaking.
Leak at the Discharge Drainpipe
- Check the bolts holding the discharge pipe to the disposal for tightness.
- If that does not work, remove the bolts and the pipe and replace the gasket.
- Reinstall bolts and tighten.
