Quck answer
Plumbers putty is a versatile and handy tool for repairing garbage disposals. Here’s how to use it:
1. Turn off the power: Before starting any repair work, make sure to turn off the power to the garbage disposal to avoid any accidents.
2. Clean the area: Remove any old putty or debris from the area around the garbage disposal flange using a scraper or a putty knife.
3. Apply the putty: Take a small amount of plumbers putty and roll it into a thin rope. Then, place the rope around the flange of the garbage disposal.
4. Install the flange: Carefully position the flange over the drain opening and press it firmly into place. The putty will act as a sealant and prevent any leaks.
5. Tighten the mounting ring: Secure the flange by tightening the mounting ring with a wrench. Make sure it is snug but not overly tightened.
6. Wipe off excess putty: Use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess putty around the flange.
7. Test for leaks: Turn on the power and run water through the garbage disposal to check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully repaired your garbage disposal using plumbers putty.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and exercise caution while working with electrical appliances.
If you see water under your sink and discover that your garbage disposal is leaking, it’s important to determine the source of the leak. After inspecting the pipes connected to the garbage disposal, you may find that the flange connecting the disposal to the sink is loose or worn, or there is a hole in the garbage disposal itself.
To fix a loose or worn flange, you can use plumber’s putty. This putty is specifically designed for this purpose. However, it is not suitable for sealing holes in the garbage disposal permanently. It’s akin to using duct tape to patch plumbing pipes.
Using Plumber’s Putty to Seal the Drain Flange
Plumber’s putty consists of clay, linseed oil, and other ingredients such as limestone, talc, and fish oil. It is a waterproof substance that remains flexible for a long time, eventually drying out and becoming hard. While it is not as hard as epoxy, it can still break apart when handled, similar to sunbaked clay.
Plumbers utilize plumber’s putty when installing drains. They apply it underneath the drain flange, which overlaps the drain opening, creating a watertight seal when they tighten the nut to secure the drain to the sink. If the plumber who installed the garbage disposal used plumber’s putty, the putty may have dried out and cracked, causing the flange to leak.
Although plumber’s putty is not intended for pipe repairs, it can be considered in this context for stopping leaks in the garbage disposal. However, it cannot withstand pressurized water when the disposal is in use, as it will force water under pressure through the drain.
Using Plumber’s Putty as a Garbage Disposal Sealant
If you notice water leaking from the top of the garbage disposal, you can likely fix the issue by resetting the flange with new plumber’s putty. Here are the steps to do so:
- Disconnect the power and pipes from the garbage disposal.
- Rotate the disposal counterclockwise to detach it from the sink bracket and remove it.
- Loosen the nuts and bolts holding the bracket to the sink and remove the mounting ring, releasing the flange from the top of the sink. Clean off the old putty using a putty knife and rag.
- Take a small amount of plumber’s putty, roll it into a rope, and wrap it around the underside of the flange. Reset the flange and mounting ring, and tighten the nuts. Remove any excess putty.
- Place a stopper in the drain opening, fill the sink with water, and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, reinstall the garbage disposal and reconnect the pipes and power.
Addressing Other Leaks in a Garbage Disposal System
Leaks from other parts of the garbage disposal often indicate the need for a replacement. While it is possible to stop leaks by disassembling the disposal and replacing worn seals, it may not be worth the effort.
If your garbage disposal is damaged or has a leak, it is probably old and may have rusted, leading to future leaks even if you attempt to repair it. Instead of relying on a temporary solution like plumber’s putty, which is destined to fail quickly, it is more advisable to invest in a new garbage disposal.
