A leaking garbage disposal sounds alarming but the fix depends entirely on where the leak originates. Each leak point has a different repair — from a simple connection tightening to full replacement.
Likelihood: Common
The sink flange is the metal ring mounted in the sink drain. Over time, the putty seal deteriorates and water leaks from this joint down through the disposal body.
Fix: Remove disposal, reseal the flange with plumber's putty, reinstall.
Likelihood: Common
The dishwasher drain connection or main drain outlet (side of disposal) can leak if the hose clamp loosens or the gasket fails.
Fix: Tighten the hose clamp or replace the gasket ($5).
Likelihood: Indicates end of disposal life
If water drips from the very bottom of the disposal body (not a connection point), the internal seals have failed. This is not repairable.
Fix: Replace the disposal. Internal seals are not sold separately.
Dry everything thoroughly. Run the disposal with water. Watch closely: does water appear at the top (near sink flange), the side (drain/dishwasher connection), or the bottom center of the unit?
Tighten the metal clamp on the dishwasher drain hose. For the main drain outlet: tighten the slip-joint nut. If the gasket looks cracked or flattened, replace it ($3–5 at hardware stores).
Disconnect power. Disconnect drain lines. Twist the disposal counterclockwise to detach from the mounting ring. Remove the mounting ring. Push the sink flange up from below and clean all old putty. Roll a rope of plumber's putty, press around the flange, reinstall from below, and tighten the mounting ring snugly.
If water seeps from the bottom of the unit body with no connection nearby: internal seal failure. The disposal cannot be repaired — replace it. Most disposals are replaced in 30–45 minutes using the same mounting ring.
No — use plumber's putty specifically for sink flanges and drains. Teflon tape is for threaded pipe connections. Putty is for creating a waterproof compression seal against a flat surface.
Replace the unit if water is leaking from the bottom of the disposal body (not a connection). Call a plumber if you're not comfortable with the wiring disconnection required for removal.
ChatDIY can adapt this diagnosis to your exact fixture, tools, photos, and skill level.