Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?

Are you concerned about the puddle of water you just found on the laundry room floor? Don’t panic – all you need is to uncover the reason why the washer is leaking and perform the required repair. Many times, a simple DIY fix is all that’s required, though you can always schedule appliance repair with a knowledgeable appliance repair technician.

How to Locate the Washing Machine Leak

First, make sure the water you found isn’t just from a spill. To test if the washer is actually leaking, wipe up the water and run a wash cycle like normal. Then, check under and behind the appliance for water. If another puddle has formed, it’s time to answer the question, “Why is my washing machine leaking?” Here are the most common culprits of a leaky washing machine and how to fix them.

Washer door or soap drawer

It’s easy to spot water dripping from the washer door. A likely cause is that you’re using too much, or the wrong kind, of detergent. If you have a front-loading unit, reduce over-sudsing by using high-efficiency (HE) detergent and following the fill line indicators. A leaky door might also mean the seal is dirty or damaged. Try cleaning it to remove debris. If it still leaks, replace the seal.

Improper or too much detergent can also cause the soap drawer to leak. Another possible problem is that the incoming water pressure is too high. To fix this, simply turn down the water pressure at the connection point for the washing machine.

Water supply hoses

Look behind the washer for two hoses that connect to the wall. Make sure these aren’t ripped or cracked. If they are, replace them. To prevent future washing machine hose problems, choose a steel braided hose rather than a standard rubber one, which deteriorates faster.

If the hoses are in good condition, tighten the connections on each end. Then, start a wash cycle. If you see the supply hoses leaking, unscrew them from the wall and the appliance. Inspect the rubber washers and mesh screen filters inside. Replace all of these parts, and hopefully, this fixes the problem.

Water drain hose

Check that the drain hose is tight and securely attached to the drainpipe. Also, if your washer is new, make sure the drain plug has been removed. If you skipped this step during installation, water will end up on the floor rather than draining away properly.

Internal components

If you don’t see any leaks at external doors, hoses, or connections, move the machine away from the wall and unscrew the access panel on the back to take a look inside. Check for rust, calcium deposits, or other signs of water damage that indicate this is where the leak is coming from. Inspect the pump and pump hoses for leaks. Replace hoses and hose clamps, if necessary, and if the pump itself is leaking, replace it.

If you see nothing wrong, fill the machine with water and let it progress to the agitating cycle while pulled away from the wall, as this may reveal leaks that aren’t readily detectable.

Schedule Washing Machine Repair

Looking for replacement parts? Want a professional to perform a washing machine repair on your behalf? Either way, Mr. Appliance® is here to help. Our team of expert technicians is committed to delivering exceptional results in a timely manner, so you can restore your washing machine to its fully functioning condition.

Schedule appliance repair services with us today!