Beyond Bending Tell You How
If you’re experiencing a leaking garbage disposal from the top, you might be wondering what you can do to fix it. A leaking garbage disposal can be a frustrating experience, especially if it’s causing water damage to your kitchen. However, with the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can fix your garbage disposal yourself and save money on a plumber. In this article, we’re going to walk you through the steps on how to fix a garbage disposal leaking from the top.
Step 1: Turn off the Power
The first step in fixing a garbage disposal is to turn off the power. It’s crucial to switch off the power to the unit to avoid any accidents that may occur during the repair. To turn off the power, locate the circuit breaker for your kitchen and turn it off. Alternatively, you can unplug the garbage disposal from the electrical outlet.
Step 2: Identify the Source of the Leak
The next step is to identify the source of the leak. The most common cause of a garbage disposal leaking from the top is a faulty sink flange. This is the metal ring that sits between the sink and the garbage disposal. Other causes of a leaking garbage disposal include damaged gaskets, worn-out seals, or cracked pipes. Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, you can move onto the next step.
Step 3: Remove the Garbage Disposal
To fix a leaking garbage disposal, you’ll need to remove it from underneath the sink. Start by disconnecting the drain pipes and any electrical connections. Loosen the mounting screws that hold the garbage disposal in place and remove it from the mounting assembly. Be sure to have a bucket ready to catch any water that may spill out during this process.
Step 4: Replace the Sink Flange
If the sink flange is the source of the leak, it will need to be replaced. To do this, remove the mounting assembly from the sink and disconnect the old sink flange. Replace it with a new sink flange and reassemble the mounting assembly. Be sure to use plumber’s putty to create a seal between the sink flange and the sink.
Step 5: Replace Gaskets and Seals
If the leak is caused by damaged gaskets or worn-out seals, these will need to be replaced. Remove the old gaskets and seals and replace them with new ones. Be sure to use the correct size and type of gaskets and seals for your garbage disposal model.
Step 6: Tighten Connections
If the leak is caused by loose connections, tighten them with a wrench. Pay attention to the drain pipes and the mounting assembly, as these are common areas for leaks to occur.
Step 7: Reassemble the Garbage Disposal
Once you’ve fixed the source of the leak, reassemble the garbage disposal. Start by reattaching the mounting assembly and tightening the screws. Reconnect any electrical connections and drain pipes. Finally, turn the power back on and test the garbage disposal to make sure it’s working correctly.
Step 8: Prevent Future Leaks
To prevent future leaks, there are a few things you can do. First, avoid putting hard or fibrous materials down the garbage disposal. These can damage the blades and cause leaks. Second, run cold water before and after using the garbage disposal to help flush any debris down the drain. Finally, periodically clean the garbage disposal with a mixture of ice cubes and vinegar to remove any buildup that can cause leaks.
Conclusion
A leaking garbage disposal can be a frustrating experience, but with the right tools and know-how, it’s a problem that can be fixed. Follow the steps outlined in this article to fix your garbage disposal and prevent future leaks. Remember to turn off the power before starting any repair work and to use the correct size and type of gaskets and seals for your garbage disposal model.
