Washer Is Leaking? Follow These Steps to Fix It

A leaky washing machine is never a good sign. If you notice a little puddle of water forming under your washer or water gushing onto the floor, ignoring the issue can lead to widespread damage. If your washer is leaking from the bottom, back, or door, there are a number of key areas to check before you schedule repair.

At Just Call Appliance Repair, we provide professional washer leak repair in Charlotte, Concord, Matthews, Huntersville, and surrounding areas. If your washing machine is leaking, utilize this troubleshooting guide to identify the cause and get it fixed earlier.

Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?

A washer leak can emanate from various sources, and knowing where it is coming from is the first step toward a solution. The following are the most common causes of a washer leak and their troubleshooting.

1. Leaking From the Bottom

If your washer leaks from the bottom, it is likely due to a faulty drain pump, cracked tub, or loose hose connection.

Possible causes:

  • Faulty or clogged drain pump – The pump guides water out of the washer, and if it’s clogged or faulty, water can leak from the bottom.
  • Tub seal damaged – Over time, the rubber seal that keeps water inside the drum can deteriorate.
  • Faulty or loose drain hose – The water will spill on the floor if the hose connecting the pump and the drain is loose or broken.
Repair it:
  • Check the drain pump for blockage or cracks and replace it if necessary.
  • Check the tub seal and replace it if worn.
  • Tighten or replace the drain hose if loose or damaged.

2. Leaking From the Back

Leaks at the back of the washer are typically caused by issues in the water supply hoses or faulty inlet valves.

Possible causes:

  • Loose or cracked water supply hoses – Hoses that go from your washer to the water supply may be leaking due to wear and tear.
  • Leaking water inlet valve – The valve that controls water entry into the washer may be leaking.
  • Water pressure too high – Excessive pressure can force water out of weakened hose connections.
How to fix it:
  • Inspect the water supply hoses for cracks or loose connections and replace if necessary.
  • Check the inlet valve for leaks, if there is water leakage when the washer is not being used, the valve may need to be replaced.
  • Reduce water pressure by adjusting supply valves.

3. Leaking From the Door (Front-Load Washers)

If your front-load washer is leaking from the door, it’s probably because of a worn-out door seal or too much detergent buildup.

Possible causes:

  • Dirty or torn door gasket – The rubber gasket around the washer door could have debris accumulation or small rips.
  • Too much detergent – Too much detergent causes too many suds, which spill out of the door.
  • Overloaded washer – Washing too many clothes overloads the washer and does not permit the door to shut and seal properly.
How to fix:
  • Clean the door gasket regularly and check for tears, replace it if torn.
  • Utilize high-efficiency (HE) detergent and use the correct measure.
  • Do not overload the washer to permit the door to seal properly.

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4. Leaking During The Spin Cycle

If your washer only leaks when spinning, the reason could be a loose drain hose or an unbalanced load.

Potential causes:

  • Disconnected or loose drain hose – If the drain hose that gets rid of water from the washer gets loose, water will leak out during spin.
  • Unbalanced load – A washing machine that shakes wildly during the spin cycle will cause water to seep through the door or hoses.
Fix it:
  • Check the drain hose connection and tighten it if necessary.
  • Redistribute clothes evenly in the drum so that they won’t shift excessively.
  • Ensure the washer is level on the floor, and adjust feet if necessary.

5. Leaking When Not in Use

If your washer is leaking even when it’s turned off, you could have a faulty inlet valve or slow water seepage from the supply hoses.

Possible causes:

  • Defective water inlet valve – If the valve doesn’t seal properly, water can seep into the washer even when it’s not being used.
  • Leaky supply hoses – Hoses that are attached to the washer and supply water might be leaking slowly.
How to repair:
  • Turn off the water supply to the washer and check if the leak discontinues.
  • If dripping continues inside the drum, replace the water inlet valve.
  • Replace any worn-out hoses with signs of leakage.

Fixing a Leaking Washer Before You Call a Technician

If you notice water building up around your washer, attempt these troubleshooting remedies before you schedule a repair:

  • Check water supply hoses for cracks or loose connections.
  • Check the drain hose and pump for clogs or leaks.
  • Clean the door gasket on front-load washers and inspect for damage.
  • Make sure the washer is level and the load is balanced.
  • Shut off the water supply to determine if the leak persists.

If the leak still exists, it’s a good idea to have a professional repair service called.

When to Call a Washer Repair Service For a Leaking Washing Machine

If your washer is still leaking after troubleshooting, it could have a more severe problem, like:

  • A defective drain pump that needs to be replaced
  • A worn-out tub seal that is allowing water to leak
  • A damaged control board is causing water inlet problems

At Just Call Appliance Repair, we specialize in washer leak repair in Charlotte and the surrounding communities. If your washer is leaking from the bottom, back, or door, we can troubleshoot and fix the problem in no time.

If your washing machine is leaking, don’t allow the issue to escalate further. Book a repair today by calling us.