Is Your Washing Machine Leaking? A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Discovering a puddle of water around your washing machine is a frustrating experience that can cause panic. Water damage is expensive, and a broken washer disrupts your entire household routine. The good news is that not every leak requires a major repair.

Follow this step-by-step guide to troubleshoot the source of the leak before you make a call.

Step 1: Pinpoint the Source of the Leak

Where the water is coming from can tell you a lot about the problem.

• Leaking from the Front: For front-load washers, this almost always points to an issue with the rubber door seal (gasket). Check it for tears, cracks, or buildup of grime and detergent that could prevent a tight seal.
• Leaking from the Back: This usually indicates a problem with the water hoses. This is often the easiest fix.
• Leaking from the Bottom: This is more serious and suggests a problem with an internal component, like the water pump, drain hose, or an internal tub connection.

Step 2: Check the Water Inlet Hoses

The hot and cold water inlet hoses are connected to the back of your machine.

What to do: Unplug the washer. Carefully check the connections at both the wall and the machine. Are they tight? Are the rubber washers inside the connections cracked or missing? Inspect the entire length of the hoses for cracks, blisters, or drips. Most experts recommend replacing standard rubber hoses every five years to prevent them from bursting.

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Hose

The drain hose carries used water out of the machine.

What to do: Ensure the drain hose is securely inserted into the standpipe or utility sink. A loose connection can cause water to splash out during the drain cycle. Check the hose for cracks or clogs that could be causing water to back up and overflow.

Step 4: Don’t Overload or Use Too Much Detergent

Sometimes, the problem is how you’re using the machine.

What to do: Using too much detergent, especially in a high-efficiency (HE) washer, can create excessive suds. These suds can prevent water from draining properly and may force their way out of the machine. Likewise, consistently overloading your washer can put stress on its components and lead to leaks over time.

When a Leak Signals a Bigger Problem

If you’ve checked the hoses, cleaned the door seal, and are using the right amount of detergent, but the leak persists, it’s time to call a professional. Leaks from the bottom of the machine often point to a failing water pump, a cracked tub, or a loose internal hose—repairs that require taking the machine apart.

Don’t risk major water damage to your home. The licensed technicians at Appliance Surgeon can quickly diagnose the source of any leak and perform a precise, lasting repair.

For fast, reliable washer repair in the D.C. metro area, contact Appliance Surgeon today!