Many homeowners dread finding a puddle of water at the bottom of their fridge. And for good reason — a wet floor can be hazardous in the kitchen, so it is vital to identify the culprit as soon as possible and fix it. There are several reasons why your refrigerator is leaking water on the floor:
Cracked drain pan: Under the fridge, there is a pan that collects water from the drain and evaporates it. If the pan is damaged, water can leak onto your kitchen floor before it can evaporate. Replace it with a new pan, and you’re good to go!
Leaking water line: If your fridge leaks from the back or decreases ice production, there might be a loose or damaged water line. Inspect the water line and replace it if damaged. If the leak is at the valve, try tightening the connection, and call a professional if the issue persists.
High humidity: If you are experiencing a particularly humid summer, don’t be surprised to find your fridge leaking water from the bottom. Humidity in the air can mix with the fridge’s cold temperatures and form excess condensation, causing the pan to overflow. You should empty the pan regularly during those months or get a dehumidifier for your fridge.
Door open for too long: Keeping your fridge door open makes the fridge work overtime to cool, causing too much condensation. Ensure no items are blocking the fridge door, and keep the door gasket clean and lubricated for an airtight seal.
Why Is My Fridge Leaking Water Inside?
Water leaking inside your fridge is usually due to excess condensation or a minor blockage. Sometimes, it might be a leaking container or a sign to clean your fridge and water dispenser. Although a minor concern, excess water in the refrigerator can be annoying. Luckily, there are ways to identify the issues and fix them:
Blocked defrost drain: This is a small drain tube at the bottom that carries excess water from condensation and melting to the pan underneath the fridge. To unblock it, wiggle a small tool around to dislodge any ice or debris. If it’s still blocked, turn off the fridge and empty it, then pour warm, soapy water down the hole using a turkey baster. Call a service professional if that doesn’t work.
Blocked dispenser line: To check for blockage, turn off the fridge and the shut-off water valve. Check the supply line for any visible cracks or splits. If there is no physical damage, it’s probably an ice block. Leave your fridge turned off for it to melt. A damaged supply line will need to be addressed by a professional.
Broken door seal: Cracks, tears and rips on the seal or cold air escaping around the edge of a closed door indicate it’s time to replace the refrigerator door seal. Another sign of a damaged seal is a warmer-than-usual fridge. Replacement door seals are available in most appliance stores, and they are easy to install.
Worn-out water filter: An old filter can prevent proper water passage, cause water discoloration or give your drinking water an unusual taste. Replacing the filter may restore your fridge’s performance.
How to Prevent a Leaking Fridge
Here are some preventive maintenance tips to combat future leaks:
Always ensure no items are obstructing the drainage hole.
Keep the fridge on level ground, away from doors and ovens.
Have a professional check the water lines and filters every season and replace worn-out parts.
Schedule Professional Maintenance and Repair Services
Attempting to resolve complex problems without expertise can lead to further complications. If you’ve already tried troubleshooting and haven’t had success, seek professional assistance. A qualified technician will assess your appliance to determine whether it requires repair or replacement. When considering a new refrigerator, look for one with the ENERGY STAR label to ensure efficiency, and make sure it is installed correctly for optimal performance.
HB Home Service Team delivers high-quality home and commercial services throughout Baltimore and Central Pennsylvania. Our extensive range of offerings includes:
Many homeowners dread finding a puddle of water at the bottom of their fridge. And for good reason — a wet floor can be hazardous in the kitchen, so it is vital to identify the culprit as soon as possible and fix it. There are several reasons why your refrigerator is leaking water on the floor: