How to Fix a Washing Machine That Leaks Water
A leaking washing machine is one of the most common appliance problems Australian households face. The good news is that many leaks have simple causes that can be identified and fixed without calling a technician. This guide covers the most common reasons a washing machine leaks and what you can do about each one.
Safety First
Before inspecting your washing machine for leaks, always turn it off at the power point and isolate the water supply. Never work on an appliance that is still connected to power or running water.
Common Causes of a Leaking Washing Machine
1. Overloading the Machine
Symptoms: Water leaks from the door seal (front loaders) or over the top (top loaders) during the wash cycle.
Solution: Don't overfill. Front loaders should be loaded to about 80% of drum capacity. Top loaders should not be packed above the drum's fill line.
2. Too Much Detergent
Symptoms: Excessive suds that push water past the door seal or overflow the drum. More common with high-efficiency (HE) front loaders when non-HE detergent is used.
Solution: Use the correct type and amount of detergent. For front loaders, always use HE low-suds detergent and follow the quantity guide on the pack. Run an empty hot wash with no detergent to clear excess suds.
3. Damaged or Dirty Door Seal (Front Loaders)
Symptoms: Water pools beneath the door during or after the wash cycle. Visible mould, cracks or tears in the rubber door seal.
Solution: Inspect the door seal (gasket) for tears, cracks, or blockages. Clean the seal with a damp cloth and mild detergent. If the seal is torn, it needs to be replaced by a technician.
4. Loose or Kinked Inlet Hoses
Symptoms: Water pools behind the machine. Leaking at the connection point between the hose and the wall tap or the machine.
Solution: Inspect the inlet hoses at both ends. Hand-tighten any loose connections. Replace hoses that are cracked, kinked or aged. Inlet hoses should be replaced every 5–7 years as preventive maintenance.
5. Loose or Blocked Drain Hose
Symptoms: Water leaks behind or under the machine, particularly during the spin or drain cycle.
Solution: Check the drain hose connection at the back of the machine. Ensure it's firmly connected and not kinked. If the standpipe is blocked, clear it. Some drain hose leaks require a plumber or appliance technician.
6. Blocked Pump Filter (Front Loaders)
Symptoms: Water pools beneath the machine, especially at the front. Some machines have a small drain plug/filter cover at the bottom front.
Solution: On most front loaders there is a small filter access panel at the bottom front. Place a towel and shallow tray underneath, then unscrew the filter cap to drain the water and remove any blockages (coins, fluff, hair clips etc.).
7. Cracked Drum or Tub
Symptoms: Large volume of water leaking, often from beneath the machine throughout the entire cycle.
Solution: This is a serious fault requiring a qualified appliance technician. In many cases, a cracked drum makes the machine uneconomical to repair.
When to Call a Technician
If the above DIY checks don't identify and fix the leak, it's time to call a qualified appliance repairer. Persistent leaks can damage flooring, cabinetry and even cause mould. If your machine is more than 8–10 years old and has a serious fault, a replacement may be more cost-effective than a repair.
Looking for a New Washing Machine in Sydney?
Browse our full range at Oceania Appliances. We carry all major brands with fast delivery across greater Sydney.
- Showroom: 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
- Phone / WhatsApp: 0422 489 492
- Email: support@oceaniaappliances.com.au