How to Troubleshoot and Repair a Leaking Washer
A leaking washer is a common problem that most people experience at some point. Trying to fix your washing machine alone may seem intimidating, but there is no need to worry! You can resolve the issue yourself at home in no time.
Depending on where you find the water leaking out from your machine, you can narrow down which parts of your washer may be the cause. If you can clearly see that the water is leaking from the front of your machine, then you will need to look at common parts such as the detergent dispenser or the door gasket. If there is water at the back of your washer, then you may need to look at the drain hoses, which can come loose, or the drain pump underneath the washer. And just like that, you are already halfway to solving all your problems! We've prepared this easy guide that will allow you to figure out which part of your washer is causing it to leak and how you can fix it or replace it yourself, whether you are a professional or an eager DIYer.
Using This Page, You Will be Able to Troubleshoot the Following Symptoms
- Washer is leaking from the front.
- Washer is leaking from the back.
- Washer is leaking from the bottom.
- Washer is leaking during a cycle.
- Washer is leaking after a cycle.
Inspect These Common Issues First
If your washer is leaking, be sure to check that one of these common issues isn't responsible before you move on to the next section and start troubleshooting parts.
FIX TIP
Is the Washer Door Securely Shut?
On a front-load washer, the door gasket is prone to leaking if it is dirty or soapy. It is important for you to clean your gasket regularly, at least weekly, to ensure that it does not succumb to mold. It is also possible for items to fall out of the washer drum and into the gasket, so be sure to inspect the area between the door and the gasket for this, as it can also result in a leaky washer.
Are You Overloading Your Washer?
Placing too many clothes inside your washer may result in it leaking. You can check the capacity of your washer by referring to your washing machine manual.
Are the Hoses on Your Washer Secured?
If your drain hose is not properly secured, it could cause a leak at the back of the machine. The drain hose is responsible for carrying water out of the machine and into the main water system. Ensure that it fits the machine well. Your fill hoses, which are responsible for supplying hot and cold water, could also be hanging loose. Turn off the water supply then inspect the hoses. Ensure that they are securely fitted into the washer.
Is Your Detergent Dispenser Blocked?
If the detergent you are using is not getting fully rinsed out during the washer’s cycle, it could cause a blockage. This blockage in the dispenser would cause water to overflow and leak onto your floor. You can fix this easily by taking some hot water and using it to flush out the dispenser housing. It may also be helpful to use less detergent and ensure that you are using the correct detergent for your washer.
Are You Using Too Much Detergent?
If there is a high volume of suds in your washer as well as a leak, it may be a sign that you are using too much detergent. Suds can clog the overflow tube and result in a leaky washer. Refer to your user manual to find out how much detergent you should be using.
Is Your Drain Plug Still On?
If your washer is new, you will need to remove the manufacturer’s drain plug before you install the drain hose. Check to see if the plug is still on by detaching the drain hose at the back of the machine. If there is a plastic plug present, this could be the cause of your leak. Remove it and discard it. You may need a bucket and some towels to catch the excess water. Fit the hose back in once you are done.
Common Parts You May Need to Replace
The parts listed below are the most common causes of your washer leaking. More resources – such as part descriptions, 3D images, videos, and installation instructions – are available on the individual part pages.
- Drain Hose The drain hose transports water out of the machine and into the drainage pipes in the building. If it’s not held securely or is clogged or damaged, you may find a puddle of water at the back of your machine.
- Inlet Valve If your washer is leaking from the back, your inlet valve might be damaged or suffering from a power failure. Check out the back of your machine to make sure that those hot and cold water hoses are secured and the inlet valve is intact.
- Drain Pump The drain pump and the drain hose work together to transport water out of your washer. If the pump is damaged or experiencing electrical failure, you may find a large puddle of water underneath your washer.
- Tub A crack in the tub will cause water to leak from your washer during the wash cycle.
- Detergent Dispenser If your detergent dispenser is clogged up with soap or damaged, water could leak out from it, causing a puddle to form at the front of your washer.
- Tub Ring Gasket The tub ring acts as a line of defense, keeping water inside the tub during the wash. If it’s worn or damaged, water will splash out from the front of your washer.
- Door Gasket The door gasket prevents water from spilling out of the tub. If it is dirty or torn, you will often find water around the front of your washer, during or after a wash.
- Drain Clean-Out If you’ve noticed a small puddle of water at the front of your washer, the drain clean-out may be clogged by small items that were left in clothes or the seal/cover on the drain clean-out may have come loose.
- Pressure Switch If there is an electrical failure in the pressure switch the washer may overfill, causing water to spill out.
- Tub Vent The tub vent cover can sometimes come loose from the top of the washer. If you find water near the back corners of your washer, the tub vent may be the culprit.