Your washer is leaking and you are looking for a fix? We have you covered. A leaking washing machine is a recipe for disaster. If left unchecked, it can lead to extensive water damage that will cost you huge amounts of money in floor repairs in addition to being a huge inconvenience.
A leaking washing machine may not be obvious at first, which is why it’s important to investigate whenever you see a puddle of water near your unit. Most washing machine leaks are minor issues, but some can become big problems that will strain your home and bank account. If your washing machine is leaky, here are some of the things you can do to save the situation.
Check the Hoses
Hoses are the most prevalent source of leaks in washing machines and should be your first point of to check whenever you notice water around your unit. Washing machines come with different types of hoses including the drain, fill, and internal hoses.
The drain hose removes water out of the unit and is located at the rear of the washer. Check that the drain hose is not broken, that it is properly installed into the household drain and be sure that the household drain is not backing up to the washer drain hose.
The fill hose is also located at the back of the washer and connects the unit to the household water supply. Inspect the hoses and make sure that the fittings are secured tightly, and that water is not leaking from the faucet.
You should also inspect the internal hoses that connect the inlet valve to the tub as these can also cause leaks during a fill cycle if they are defective. If the hose is broken, you should replace it. Be sure that the water inlet system isn’t leaking by checking if the tub injection assembly and the siphon break are dry.
If you are using a front loader, check the detergent dispenser area as many models inject water directly through the dispenser and that can cause leaks during the fill cycle if it’s broken. Check the integrity of all the hoses, replace any broken hoses and make sure everything is well clamped and in place.
Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is located at the rear of the washing machine where the hoses connect and control the entry of cold and hot water into your washer unit. The water inlet valve may be the source of a leak if you notice puddles of water at the back of your unit. Check that the inlet and outlet hoses are tightened securely. Inspect the valve for signs of damage and replace if broken.
Tub Cover Gasket
If your washing machine is leaking during the wash or spin portions of the cycle, it may be due to a broken tub cover gasket. The tub cover gasket helps to seal off the space between the tub cover and the outer tub. Check for signs of leaks or soapy water stains around the tub cover to find out if the tub cover gasket is the source of the leaks.
To access this area, you have to raise the top in top loaders or remove the front panel in front-loading units. Remember to unplug the unit before attempting this procedure. If the seal is broken, you have to replace it.
Drain Pump
The drain pump helps to remove water from the tub. It usually consists of an outlet to a drain hose and an inlet from the tub, and may even come with a circulating hose outlet.
The drain pipe may be having issues if your unit leaks during the drain or wash cycle. Before trying to remove the drain pipe for inspection, make sure to switch off the power. You will need a replacement if the pump is damaged, but also check that the hoses connecting to the pump are clamped securely and in good condition.
Door Boot Seal
This seal is used in front load washers to seal the space between the door and the outer tub. Normal use can lead to tear and crack of the seal, and foreign objects can also rip it off. There will be water around the door if the door boot seal is broken. Check that the seal is not broken and inspect the area for debris or detergent accumulation that may be preventing the door from sealing tightly.
Door Catch
The door catch is used to keep the door tightly closed during the wash cycle in front load washing machines. If the door catch is faulty or worn out, it can lead to leaks since the door won’t be tightly sealed.
Water Level Switch
The water level switch helps to regulate the amount of water that enters the tub. If the switch is not working properly, it won’t be able to stop water from filling the tub, and this can cause leaks. If the water level switch is damaged, you have to replace it.
