Leaking Garbage Disposal: Repair or Replace?

Your garbage disposal makes it easy to keep your kitchen clean and free of odors, but what happens when it starts to leak? A leaking garbage disposal can cause floor damage over time and lead to mold and mildew growth in your kitchen. Whether the leak is stemming from a worn-out seal, a loose connection to the dishwasher, or a failing mounting gasket, you need to address the problem before it gets out of hand.

Before we get into the specifics, it’s important to mention that garbage disposal repair is not a DIY job. It’s a job that should be left to a qualified plumbing company that specializes in servicing garbage disposals. Below, we explain when to repair or replace a leaking garbage disposal.

When to Repair a Leaking Garbage Disposal

Repair is recommended when the leak stems from a loose sink connection or a faulty seal between the sink and the disposal. Fixing a loose connection is as simple as tightening the mounting bolts on the ring connecting the unit to the sink. If the leak persists, applying plumber’s putty should do the trick. Be sure to unplug the appliance before getting started—your safety should always come first. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, call a nearby plumbing repair service.

A garbage disposal may also leak when the top gasket that creates a seal between the sink and the unit fails. Fixing this problem is pretty much similar to the process of tightening loose garbage disposal connections. It’s a fairly simple process that should take between 30 and 60 minutes. If you need help from a qualified plumber in Pittsburgh, PA, contact Neighborhood Plumbing.

When to Replace a Leaking Garbage Disposal

Sometimes, replacing the garbage disposal is the more practical and cost-effective choice. If the leak is coming from the bottom or the main body of the unit, it often means the internal components have deteriorated due to rust or prolonged exposure to moisture. Once corrosion develops inside the disposal, it cannot be reversed, and continued use may lead to complete failure. Replacing the unit will save you more trouble down the road and protect your kitchen from water damage.

Age is another important factor when deciding whether to replace the unit. If your garbage disposal is more than 10 years old and has developed leaks, repairs may only provide a temporary solution. Older disposals are also less energy-efficient and may struggle to grind food waste effectively. Upgrading to a newer model can improve performance, reduce noise, and lower the risk of future plumbing issues. You can find the age of your garbage disposal on the tag on the side or bottom of the unit.

Frequent repairs are another sign that replacement may be necessary. If you have repaired your disposal multiple times and problems keep returning, installing a new unit can save you money and frustration in the long run. A garbage disposal that keeps breaking down is a sure sign that the appliance has come to the end of its lifespan, or it may happen that it was installed incorrectly from the onset. Call a trusted plumbing repair service to find out the root cause of frequent breakdowns and offer expert guidance.

Contact Neighborhood Plumbing Today for Garbage Disposal Repair

Are you on the fence about garbage disposal repair vs. replacement? Let the experts at Neighborhood Plumbing inspect the appliance and provide you with honest advice. Garbage disposal problems aren’t a task that you can handle yourself armed with a DIY toolkit and online tutorials. Contact us today for all your garbage disposal needs! Our team has the knowledge to install all types, brands, and models of garbage disposals.