Is your refrigerator leaking water and creating a mess?
Don’t worry!
This guide explores the five common causes of a Leaky Refrigerator and simple ways to fix them.
Keep your kitchen dry and your food fresh!
Key Takeaways
- Food bits, ice, or debris can block the defrost drain in your refrigerator over time.
- Use a turkey baster or a pipe cleaner to push warm water through the drain.
- If the water inlet pipe is cracked, damaged, or loose, it can cause leaks.
- Worn or damaged gaskets can allow warm air to enter.
- If the fridge is on an uneven surface, it can lead to leaks.
- The drain pan gathers extra water that drips from the refrigerator.
- A skilled technician can identify and repair issues to ensure your refrigerator runs properly.
5 Common Causes Of A Leaky Refrigerator And How To Fix Them
By knowing the causes of refrigerator leaks and how to fix them, you can keep your fridge working well.
Here are five common causes of a leaky refrigerator and simple solutions to fix them.
1. Blocked Defrost (Melted) Drain
Over time, food bits, ice, or debris can block the defrost drain in your refrigerator.
This drain is important because it helps remove excess water from melting frost.
When it gets blocked, the water can’t flow away.
Signs
If you see water pooling at the bottom of the refrigerator or in the freezer, it might be due to a blocked drain.
Fix
- First, unplug the refrigerator to keep yourself safe while you work.
- Use a turkey baster (a long tube with a bulb at one end) or a pipe cleaner to flush warm water through the drain. This can help clear out any blockages.
- If the drain is still blocked after this, you should call a professional for help.
2. Damaged Or Faulty Water Inlet Valve (Pipe)
The water inlet valve supplies water to your ice maker and water dispenser.
If it is damaged, cracked, or loose, it can leak water.
Signs
Look for water pooling near the back of the refrigerator.
This is usually a sign that the inlet valve needs attention.
Fix
- Check the valve for any cracks and loose connections.
- If you find a crack, or if it’s loose, tighten the connections or replace the valve if necessary.
3. Broken Door Gaskets (Stopper)
Door gaskets are rubber seals that keep the refrigerator door closed tightly.
These gaskets can let warm air in if worn out and damaged.
This causes condensation (steam), which can lead to leaks.
Signs
If you see water forming near the door or puddles on the floor, the gaskets might be the problem.
Fix
- Inspect the gaskets for any cracks and gaps.
- Clean them with warm, soapy water to remove dirt and grime.
- If it is too damaged, replace the gaskets to ensure the door seals properly.
4. Improper Refrigerator Leveling
If your refrigerator isn’t level, water from the defrost drain might not flow properly.
It results in causing leaks.
This can happen if the fridge is on a rough surface.
Signs
Check for water puddles underneath the refrigerator or inside it.
This could mean that the fridge isn’t level.
Fix
- Use a leveling tool to check if the refrigerator is even from side to side and front to back.
- Adjust the front legs of the fridge up or down as needed to make it level.
5. Cracked Or Damaged Drain Pan
The drain pan collects excess water that drips from the refrigerator.
If this pan is cracked and overflowing, it can cause water to leak onto the floor.
Signs
If you notice water leaking beneath the refrigerator, the drain pan might be the issue.
Fix
- Look closely at the drain pan for any cracks and damage.
- If you find any damage, replace the drain pan to stop the leaks.
When To Call A Professional
If you’ve tried the fixes mentioned above and the leaks still won’t stop, it may be time to call an expert.
There could be underlying problems, like faulty refrigeration parts, that need professional attention.
A trained technician can find and fix these problems to make sure your refrigerator works well again.
Don’t hesitate to get help if you’re unsure.
Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for excellent services.
Conclusion
This article discusses five common causes of leaky refrigerators and how to fix them.
Various issues like blocked drains, damaged valves, or worn gaskets can cause it.
By applying the right fixes, you can keep your fridge running smoothly. If the leaks continue, don’t hesitate to call us at OP Plumbing Hub.