Find the Source

To properly repair your garbage disposal, you must first locate the source of your leak. To do this:

• Turn off the kitchen's electricity at the breaker to protect against electrical shock, and unplug the unit.
• Next, remove everything from under the sink and dry the disposal.
• Then, plug the sink drain with a standard rubber stopper and fill the sink with a few cups of water mixed with a few drops of food coloring.
• After that, remove the stopper and use a flashlight to find the leak. If you cannot identify the source of the leak, call a licensed plumber for an inspection service.

Top

If you notice water leaking from your sink, the issue may be with the sink flange. The flange is where the sink, drain, and disposal connect and can become loose over time. First, check the mounting bolts to see if they have loosened. You can also inspect the plumber's putty. If it has been damaged, you'll need to temporarily remove the disposal unit, add new putty, and carefully put it back in place.

Side

Do you have a leak on the side of your disposal? If so, then it could be due to a gasket that is damaged or worn out. To fix this, take out the old gasket and put in a new one. Once you have installed the new gasket, check that all three mounting grooves are securely locked.

Bottom

When you have a leak at the bottom of your disposal, it's time to replace the unit. This type of leaking generally means an interior seal has failed. When one seal is damaged, the others will not be too far behind. Therefore, it makes more sense to install a new unit rather than deal with multiple repairs in the coming months. Doing so will not only fix the current problem but will also help prevent any future leaks.

Bad Dishwasher Connection

If you notice a water leak coming from the dishwasher, it is most likely due to a problem with the hose. To fix this, you will need to replace or repair the hose. If you try to do this repair on your own, be sure to tighten the clamp to keep the connection secure and avoid any hidden water damage.

Benefits of Hiring Plumbers for Your Disposal Issues

While these solutions may seem straightforward, many homeowners get stuck after taking out the old unit - leaving them without a working kitchen sink. Instead of struggling with the time and expense of trying to do it alone, consider hiring a professional plumber. Not only will this help you avoid any unnecessary stress, but you can be confident the job will get done correctly. Hiring plumbers will ensure that your disposal is appropriately installed and you avoid future leaks and water damage. They can also offer suggestions for prevention and disposal maintenance to get the most out of your new investment.

Do You Need Professional Leak Detection Services?

Did you try to find the leak on your own but are having issues identifying it? Have you seen where the leak is coming from but are struggling with installing the unit or replacing the damaged part? Get the help you need today by calling Rooter Hero Plumbing of Phoenix. Our dependable plumbers can provide professional leak detection services so you can get your kitchen sink working at its best in no time. Contact our office for more information or to schedule an upcoming appointment with a qualified plumber in Phoenix, Arizona, or a surrounding metro area community.