Fridge Leaking Water: Common Causes and Step-by-Step Solutions

Technically Reviewed by Dmytro Shcherbyna, Chief Technical Officer, on Aug 28, 2024 | Written by Excellence Appliance Repair, Editorial Contributors

A leaking refrigerator is a problem that no one wants to deal with, but it’s a fairly common issue in many homes. A fridge leaking water could signal anything from a minor clog in the defrost drain to a more serious issue like a damaged water line. To prevent water damage to your kitchen or any further complications, it's essential to tackle the issue quickly and effectively.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your fridge might be leaking water and provide step-by-step solutions to help you fix the problem yourself. If you can't resolve it on your own, calling a professional appliance repair service may be the best option.

Core Causes of a Fridge Leaking Water

If your fridge is leaking water, it’s essential to identify the root cause before starting repairs. Here are the top potential causes:

• Clogged defrost drain: The drain may be blocked by debris or ice buildup, leading to water pooling inside the fridge.
• Frozen water supply line: A frozen or damaged water line can cause leakage, particularly if your fridge has an ice maker.
• Frost buildup: Excessive frost can disrupt your fridge's cooling system and cause leaks.
• Broken door seal: If the door gasket is damaged, warm air enters the fridge, causing condensation and leaks.
• Unlevel fridge: A refrigerator that isn’t properly leveled may cause water to accumulate and leak.
• Damaged water line: Leaks may occur if the water line supplying your fridge is damaged or improperly sealed.
• High humidity: In humid environments, moisture can build up inside your fridge, causing leaks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Leaking Fridge

1. Clear a Clogged Defrost Drain

One of the most common causes of fridge leaks is a clogged defrost drain. Here’s how to clear it:

1. Unplug your fridge for safety.
2. Locate the drain, usually near the back or bottom of the fridge.
3. Use warm water and a small brush or a pipe cleaner to clear out any blockage in the drain.
4. Repeat the process until water flows freely down the drain.

2. Fix a Frozen Water Supply Line

If your fridge’s ice maker isn’t working, a frozen water supply line might be to blame. Here’s what to do:

1. Turn off the fridge and let it defrost for several hours.
2. Once thawed, check the water supply line for any signs of damage.
3. If the line is still blocked or damaged, contact a professional to replace it.

3. Defrost Excess Frost Buildup

Excess frost can interfere with your fridge’s cooling system, causing leaks. To fix this, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove all food items.
2. Place towels under the fridge to catch any melting ice.
3. Let the fridge sit unplugged for 8-12 hours to defrost completely.
4. Once defrosted, clean and dry the interior before turning it back on.

4. Replace a Broken Door Seal

If your fridge’s door isn’t sealing correctly, follow these steps:

1. Test the seal by closing the door on a dollar bill. If the bill pulls out easily, the seal is weak.
2. Order a new seal that fits your fridge model.
3. Carefully remove the old seal and attach the new one, ensuring a snug fit.

5. Level Your Refrigerator

An unbalanced fridge can cause water to leak. Here’s how to level it:

1. Use a leveling tool to check if the fridge is balanced.
2. If needed, adjust the feet at the bottom of the fridge to make it level.
3. Check the stability by pushing on the door and ensure it doesn’t rock or wobble.

6. Check for a Damaged Water Line

If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, a damaged water line could cause a leak. Here’s how to address this:

1. Check the water line for cracks or leaks.
2. If you find any damage, it’s best to call a professional to replace the water line safely.

Common Fridge Issues with Popular Brands

While refrigerators from different brands share similar functionalities, they can experience unique issues based on their design. Here’s a look at common fridge problems with popular brands:

• GE refrigerators often suffer from temperature inconsistencies due to faulty thermostats or evaporator fans.
• Samsung fridges may experience water leaks due to blocked defrost drains or malfunctioning ice makers.
• LG refrigerators sometimes face compressor issues, which can cause cooling problems and potential leaks.
• Whirlpool models commonly deal with defrost system failures, leading to water accumulation inside the fridge.
• Maytag fridges may develop condensation and leakage issues due to malfunctioning door seals.
• Bosch refrigerators can have water line and defrost drain blockages, causing leaks or ice buildup.
• KitchenAid models might experience leaking due to damaged water supply lines or clogged defrost drains.
• Viking refrigerators occasionally encounter compressor issues that lead to excessive frost or leaks.
• Kenmore fridges are prone to leaking from clogged drains or faulty water filters.
• Wolf refrigerators often face problems with temperature regulation, which can lead to condensation and leaks.
• Frigidaire models frequently suffer from leaking caused by clogged defrost drains or cracked drain pans.
• Thermador refrigerators may have seal or water line issues, resulting in leaks and poor cooling performance.
• Dacor fridges can encounter water dispenser problems, leading to leaks if the water line is damaged.
• Miele refrigerators often have defrosting issues that cause excess frost and leakage.
• Electrolux fridges might face leaking problems due to malfunctioning ice makers or blocked drain lines.
• Sub-Zero models sometimes experience issues with water filters and condensation buildup, leading to leaks.
• Amana refrigerators are known for common water leakage issues, often caused by blocked drains or malfunctioning defrost systems.

When to Call a Professional Appliance Repair Service

If you’ve tried these solutions and your fridge is still leaking water, it may be time to contact a professional. Leaks caused by faulty parts like a broken water line or evaporator coils should be handled by experts to avoid further damage. At Excellence Appliance Repair, our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and repair any fridge leaks, ensuring your appliance runs efficiently again.

Don’t let a leaking fridge ruin your day! Schedule an appointment with us today for fast, reliable service, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with our three-month repair warranty and competitive pricing. We’re available seven days a week and always ready to help.

For more information or to book a service, contact us now or read through our customer reviews to see what others say about our high-quality service!