If you’ve spotted water under your kitchen sink, heard dripping sounds, or smelled something sour near your cabinet, your garbage disposal is probably leaking. It’s one of those household issues that can go from annoying to damaging fast. The good news? Most leaks come from a few common spots—and many are fixable. Here’s how to tell what’s going wrong, when to repair it, and when to call the pros at Radiant Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for help.
Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?
Most garbage disposals last about 8–10 years, but seals, gaskets, and fittings wear down faster—especially in active kitchens like those around Austin and San Antonio. A leak doesn’t always mean total failure, but it does need attention right away to prevent water damage, mold, or electrical hazards under your sink.
Garbage Disposal Leaking from the Top
If water seeps from where your sink and disposal connect, the problem is likely a worn or loose sink flange. This metal ring and plumber’s putty seal the disposal to the drain opening. Over time, vibrations from daily use can loosen the bolts or dry out the putty.
Fix: Tighten the mounting bolts evenly. If the leak persists, detach the disposal, clean off the old putty, and reseal the flange with fresh plumber’s putty.
Garbage Disposal Leaking from the Side
Leaks on the side usually trace back to the dishwasher drain hose or the main discharge line leading to your sink drain. These are held by clamps or gaskets that can loosen over time or crack due to wear and tear.
Fix: Check both hose connections and tighten the metal clamps. If the hose is brittle or the gasket is cracked, replace them entirely for a long-term seal.
Garbage Disposal Leaking from the Bottom
If you notice water dripping from the very bottom of the unit—or around the reset button—you’re likely dealing with internal seal failure or a small crack in the disposal housing. Unfortunately, this usually means the motor or seals inside are worn beyond repair.
Fix: Because internal leaks require disassembly, replacement is typically the safest and most cost-effective solution. A new unit will run quieter, more efficiently, and last for years to come.
How to Find the Source of a Leak
Not sure where it’s coming from? Here’s a quick test:
- Unplug the disposal or shut off power at the breaker.
- Dry the outside of the unit and the surrounding pipes with a towel.
- Fill the sink with a few inches of water and watch for drips as it drains.
- Use a flashlight or food coloring in the water to pinpoint exactly where the moisture starts.
Once you identify the leak source, you’ll know whether a DIY fix or a professional repair makes more sense.
When to Call a Professional
If your garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, repeatedly clogging, or making grinding noises, it’s time to bring in an expert. Attempting a full disassembly can risk electrical shock or further damage. Our licensed plumbers for garbage disposal repairs diagnose leaks, replace gaskets and hoses, or install new disposals safely and efficiently.
At Radiant, we handle every kind of leak—from loose drain lines to cracked housings—using high-quality parts and precise workmanship. We’ll explain what’s happening, offer clear repair options, and get your kitchen back to normal fast.
Preventing Future Garbage Disposal Leaks
A few small habits can extend your disposal’s life and help you avoid another leak:
- Always run cold water when grinding food waste.
- Avoid putting grease, fibrous foods, or coffee grounds down the drain.
- Check mounting bolts and hoses every few months for looseness or corrosion.
- Clean your disposal monthly with ice cubes and baking soda or vinegar to prevent buildup.
Why Austin & San Antonio Homeowners Trust Radiant
Radiant Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving Austin and San Antonio since 1999. We’ve fixed thousands of leaky garbage disposals across the region, offering friendly service, clear communication, and long-lasting repairs. Whether your leak is a quick fix or a full replacement, our team makes it easy to get it done right the first time.
Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem. Call or schedule service online today to work with our trusted plumbers for garbage disposal repairs. For help outside Austin or San Antonio, view our locations page to see every area we serve across Central Texas.
