How to Fix a Washing Machine That Leaks Water
A leaking washing machine is one of the most common appliance problems. The good news is that many leaks are caused by minor issues you can diagnose and fix yourself. This guide walks through the most likely causes and what you can do about each one.
Safety First
Before inspecting your washing machine, turn it off at the power point and unplug it from the wall. Turn off the water supply taps behind or underneath the machine. Place towels around the base to absorb any water already on the floor.
Where Is the Water Coming From?
Identifying where the water is leaking from is the most important first step. The leak location gives you a strong clue about the cause:
- Front of machine: Door seal (front loader), detergent dispenser overflow, or drum overfilling
- Back of machine: Inlet hose connections, outlet/drain hose
- Underneath: Internal pump, internal hoses, or drum seal
- During fill cycle: Inlet hose connections or water pressure issues
- During spin: Drain hose or pump
Common Causes and Fixes
1. Loose or Damaged Inlet Hoses
The most common cause of washing machine leaks. The two inlet hoses (hot and cold) connect from the wall taps to the back of the machine. Check the connections at both ends. Tighten by hand — do not over-tighten with pliers as this can crack the fittings. Inspect the rubber washers inside the hose fittings; replace them if they are cracked, flattened or missing (they cost a few dollars from hardware stores).
2. Front Loader Door Seal (Gasket)
Front loader door seals collect debris, hair, coins and mould over time. Small holes or tears in the seal will cause water to leak from the front of the machine during the wash cycle. Inspect the seal carefully around its full circumference, pulling back the fold to check inside. A damaged door seal needs to be replaced — this is a job for a technician as it requires disassembling the front panel.
3. Detergent Drawer Overflow
Too much detergent, especially non-HE detergent used in a high-efficiency machine, creates excessive suds that can overflow from the detergent drawer. Use the correct quantity and type of detergent specified in your machine's manual. Clean the detergent drawer regularly to prevent blocked siphon holes that cause overflow.
4. Drain Hose Issues
The drain hose at the back of the machine must be correctly positioned in the standpipe or laundry tub. If it is too low, water can siphon back; if the connection is loose, water leaks during the drain cycle. Check that the hose is securely positioned and that the standpipe or drain connection is not blocked.
5. Overfilling (Pressure Switch)
If the machine fills with too much water, it can overflow from the top or through the door seal. This is usually caused by a faulty water level pressure switch or a blocked pressure hose. This requires a technician to diagnose and repair.
6. Internal Pump or Hose
Leaks from underneath the machine often indicate a loose or cracked internal hose or a failing pump. These require the machine to be tipped on its side or back to access. Unless you are comfortable with appliance repair, this is a job for a qualified technician.
When to Call a Technician
Call a technician when: the door seal is damaged; the leak is from underneath the machine; the machine is overfilling; or you can't identify the source after checking inlet and drain hoses.
Need a Replacement?
If your washing machine is older and the repair cost approaches its replacement value, it may be more economical to replace it. Oceania Appliances stocks washing machines from Bosch, Electrolux, Samsung, LG, Westinghouse, Fisher & Paykel, AEG and more. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park (open 7 days, 10am–8pm), call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au.