DIY Tip: Under Sink Leaks
Quick Fixes for Loose Connections, Leaking Disposals & Water Valve Issues
If you’ve ever opened your kitchen or bathroom cabinet only to find water pooling under the sink — you’re not alone. For homeowners across Peoria, Glendale, Surprise, and Sun City, AZ, under-sink leaks are among the most common plumbing headaches. Luckily, identifying the source early can prevent major water damage and costly repairs.
At At Hand Heroes, we’ve seen it all — from a slow drip at the faucet base to full-blown leaks under the garbage disposal. Here’s a quick guide to spotting the problem and taking action before it worsens.
1. Loose Drain or Supply Connections
One of the leading causes of under-sink leaks is a loose connection at the drain trap or water supply lines.
What to look for: Water spots on the cabinet floor, moisture around P-traps, or dripping from compression fittings.
DIY fix of a leaky pipe: Many fittings only need to be hand tight if plastic and some will require using a wrench. Gently tighten the nut where the leak occurs — but avoid over-tightening, which can crack plastic fittings.
Pro tip: Keep a towel under the connection and check again in 24 hours to ensure the leak is resolved.
2. Garbage Disposal Leaks
If your garbage disposal is leaking, the culprit could be:
A loose mounting ring where the unit attaches to the sink.
A cracked disposal body (common in older units).
DIY fix: Disconnect power first. Tighten the mounting bolts or replace worn gaskets if visible. If the leak is from the disposal body itself, replacement is usually the best option.
💡 Local tip: Homeowners in Sun City West and Peoria often deal with hard water that corrodes metal inside disposals over time — upgrading to a stainless-steel disposal can extend lifespan and reduce odors.
3. Discoloration or Corrosion at Water Supply Valves
If you notice green or white buildup (signs of corrosion) on shut-off valves or fittings under your sink, it’s a red flag.
What it means: Mineral deposits from small leaks or moisture exposure.
DIY fix: Turn off the valve, clean with a vinegar-and-water mix, and inspect for cracks or active dripping.
When to call the pros: If corrosion continues or valves don’t fully shut off — it’s time to replace them.
Homeowners in Scottsdale, Anthem, and Goodyear experience high mineral content in water, which accelerates valve wear. Routine checks every few months can help catch early signs.
🏜️ Did You Know?
Hard water in Peoria, AZ averages over 250 ppm, which can corrode metal fittings faster. That’s one reason local homeowners call At Hand Heroes for plumbing maintenance and disposal upgrades.
When to Call At Hand Heroes
If your quick fixes don’t hold, or you discover damage to wood cabinets or drywall, give At Hand Heroes a call. Our licensed and insured technicians serve Peoria, Glendale, Surprise, Sun City, Sun City West, Scottsdale, Desert Ridge, and beyond, offering expert plumbing and leak repair services you can trust.
✅ Same-day availability
✅ Honest, up-front pricing
✅ First-responder-owned and operated
📞 Call or Text 480-800-7797
or visit AtHandHeroes.com to schedule service today.
