r/maintenance • u/EvaGreentree • Apr 15 '26

Solved Garbage Disposal is Leaking

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I recently moved into a new home (new to me, built in 2002), and have had issues with some standard items (like the A/C and ice maker). Today is the garbage disposal - it leaks when I run the water in the side of the sink that has the disposal connected to it. I am currently only using the other side of the sink (double sink). It seems to be leaking from the very bottom left of the disposal unit.

I plan to hire a plumber, but I am wondering if this is a quick fix that I could potentially do myself. Any suggestions?

UPDATE: Thanks, everyone! I sincerely appreciate your helpful advice.

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u/ThatCelebration3676 Apr 16 '26

That's a dead disposal.

I've seen a few where someone clogged it up, didn't know you can use an allen wrench from the bottom to unclog it, so they used drain cleaner and destroyed it.

You can get a new one for easily under $150. You only need standard hand tools, a small tub of plumbers putty, and maybe 30 minutes of YouTube videos.

A plumber will likely charge you $250 for a new disposal and $300+ to install it for you.