Dishwasher Leaking: 7 Common Reasons (with fixes) - ApplianceChat.com (2024)

Pooling water in the bottom of the dishwasher is not only unsightly, but it can also be dangerous.

Fortunately, most dishwasher repairs can be done at home with a little know-how.

Watch on

Dishwasher Leaking: 7 Common Reasons (with fixes) - ApplianceChat.com (1)


This article will go over the most common causes of dishwasher leaks and help with solutions.

In summary, here are 7 common reasons why dishwasher leaks

  1. Filter is Clogged
  2. Check for worn-out or damaged gasket
  3. Leaky Dishwasher Door
  4. Leaky Dishwasher Tub
  5. Wrong Detergent
  6. Dishwasher not aligned
  7. Other technical issues

We are confident that we will be able to identify and resolve your dishwasher leaking problems.

In this article, we’ll help answer the most common dishwasher leaking problems.

Dishwasher Leaking: 7 Common Reasons (with fixes)

The most common reasons for dishwasher leaks are a damaged or worn seal, a clogged filter, a leaky door, and other related issues.

Based on our research and experience, below are the most common reasons why your dishwasher is leaking on the floor.

Ready, let’s jump in!

Is the Filter Clogged?

The first thing you should look for is a clogged dishwasher filter. If the filter is not cleaned regularly, there may be a build-up of food or foreign objects that not only prevents your dishes from being properly cleaned but also causes a leak.

If you notice that the cleaning performance has significantly decreased, it is a good indication that the dishwasher filter needs to be cleaned.

The filter is in charge of capturing food, debris, and other particles left over from cleaning.

So, clean out the filter, replace it and put it through a rinse, and check for leaks.

If you find there are no leaks, then that’s your problem is solved.

If it does leak move on to the next problem below

Worn or Damaged Door Seals

A common reason for dishwasher leaks is worn or damaged door seals (otherwise known as a gasket)

This is the rubber sealing on the door that prevents water from flowing out of your dishwasher.

So, take a close look at the door seal (otherwise known as a gasket) for any holes or rips.

If you find the rubber seal or gasket is damaged, this can be replaced with relative ease.

Soak your new gasket in warm soapy water, which will make it flexible and easier to install.

While you’re working on the door, go ahead and tighten the hinges if they’re loose.

If you find the door seal is okay, then move to the next item below.

Leaky Dishwasher Door

The next step is to figure out whether the source of the leak is your dishwasher’s door. Years of mechanical movement could have worn down or misaligned the door hinges.

If you discover that the dishwasher door’s hinges are misaligned, gently screw the screws back in with a screwdriver.

If you have found the dishwasher door to be okay, move to the next step below.

Faulty Spray Arm

Located on the interior floor of your dishwasher, the spray arm spins and sprays water onto the dishes during the wash and rinse cycles.

However, in an overcrowded or incorrectly loaded appliance, utensils and dishes may obstruct the arm’s rotation or cause it to become dislodged, even damaged after years of use, resulting in leaks.

To diagnose this, remove the lower dish rack from the dishwasher and spin the spray arm to see if it moves freely.

If not, remove any impediments such as fallen silverware or residue build-up.

Remove the spray arm by unscrewing it counterclockwise and inspecting it for damage such as cracks or blocked holes.

If you discover a crack or damage to the spray arm, the good news is that you can order a replacement from the manufacturer and replace the defective arm yourself.

If you haven’t already, unscrew the spray arm counterclockwise.

Then, align the center hub with the dishwasher floor opening and screw it in clockwise.

Reinstall the bottom dish rack after ensuring that it spins freely.

Wrong Detergent

Regular dish soap is not recommended because it foams excessively and can cause leaking.

Only use dishwasher detergents in dishwashers.

Even if you rinse your dishes with soap before loading them into the dishwasher, the solution on the dishes can bubble up and put pressure on the door seal, causing it to leak.

Avoid using dish soap when rinsing dishes to avoid this problem.

Other Technical Issues

Unplug your machine and turn off the power at the circuit breaker that controls the kitchen appliance before you begin tinkering with its electrical components.

Additionally, ensure that the water valve (located under the kitchen sink) is turned off.

Then, consult the user manual that came with your appliance or find a PDF copy of it online to determine which component of your leaking dishwasher is causing issues.

Alternatively, consult a qualified technician for professional advice.

Leaky Dishwasher Tub

If your dishwasher has seen its fair share of loads, a leak from a hole worn in the tub may have developed.

Detergents and minerals can corrode the tub’s bottom, allowing water to seep through and collect beneath your dishwasher.

Some tubs can be repaired but depending on the age of your dishwasher and the severity of the problem, you may need to replace it entirely.

Defective Pump

A dishwasher leak could be caused by a detective pump. It could also be a problem with the pump seal.

The pump circulates and drains the water in the dishwasher.

It can be found at the bottom of your dishwasher. It is divided into two sections, one for circulation and the other for drainage.

If, after an inspection, you discover that your drain pump has visible signs of damage or is constantly failing, it must be replaced.

Defective Valve

If your dishwasher is leaking because it has overflowed, the water inlet valve could be the source of the problem.

The water inlet valve allows water to enter the dishwasher from your home’s water line.

Water may leak from your dishwasher if this valve is defective or damaged.

In addition to a leak, this means your dishes may not be cleaned properly, so they must be operational.

Defective Hose Clamp

Hose clamps connect the dishwasher pump to the drain and circulating hoses.

If the clamps have become loose or the hoses have cracks in them, a leak may occur.

To gain access to these hoses and clamps, remove the kickplate at the bottom of the dishwasher.

Using a screwdriver, tighten the clamp. If this fails, the hose clamp must be replaced.

Examine the clamps on the drain and circulating hoses and refit or replace them as needed.

What should I do if my dishwasher continues to leak?

If you have gone through step by step and your dishwasher continues to leak suggest getting out a qualified professional to take a look.

Some manufacturer’s websites such as Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool have additional detail that may help diagnose leaking problems.

How can I tell if my dishwasher is dead?

Because you have a leak, it does not mean that your dishwasher is broken and cannot be repaired. Following the steps outlined above should allow you to identify and resolve the problem.

If your dishwasher is not draining properly or the motor is humming, it is time to replace it.

Conclusion

This brings us to the end of the article, and we hope your dishwasher is no longer leaking.

Remember that machines fail, and no matter how frustrating it is to discover that your beloved dishwasher is leaking, it is always best to maintain your cool.

If your leaking problem has not been resolved, it is best to contact a technician.

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Dishwasher Leaking: 7 Common Reasons (with fixes) - ApplianceChat.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the most common reason dishwashers leak? ›

A worn door seal, or gasket, is usually the primary reason your dishwasher is leaking from the bottom right corner of the appliance door. Seals get squeezed over time to the point that they can no longer seal properly. This causes food particles and other debris to get stuck between the dishwasher door and the seal.

What do you do when your dishwasher leaks from the bottom? ›

The water runs down the side of the dishwasher and pools on the floor, so it may seem as though the dishwasher is leaking from the bottom. To fix this problem, you will need to install a new door latch that is compatible with the make and model of dishwasher.

Is it worth fixing a leaking dishwasher? ›

If your dishwasher is within the five-year limit, it's definitely worth fixing. But if your dishwasher is closer to ten years, finding replacement parts might be too expensive, so you'd be better off replacing your machine.

How to prevent dishwasher leaks? ›

To keep your dishwasher in top form and leak-free, check to ensure your washer is level, make sure to clean your filter regularly, keep an eye out on the integrity of the gasket around the door and, finally, don't pour heaps of regular dishwashing soap into your machine willy nilly.

How to unclog a dishwasher drain hose? ›

Clean the Drain with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Use a DIY mixture of equal parts baking soda and vinegar to unclog the drain. Pour the solution into the basket at the bottom. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Finish by pouring hot water down the basket and running the rinse cycle.

Can a clogged drain cause a dishwasher to leak? ›

if you notice the leak only when you run the kitchen pipes, it could be a problem with the drainpipe. Most often, they are clogged, which can interfere with the dishwasher discharge hose. This is because if the sink drain is too slow, the water will drain into the dishwasher and then end up in a pool on your floor.

How long should dishwashers last? ›

How long should a dishwasher last? About 10 years, according to most of the 20-plus manufacturers we asked. CR members tell us they expect the same life span, on average, but that doesn't necessarily mean 10 trouble-free years.

Can a plumber fix a leaking dishwasher? ›

Plumbers are not specialized in appliance repair, but they can usually fix anything connected to water. If you notice a lot of residue stuck on your dishes, or an excessive water leak in your kitchen, there could be a problem with your water line that a plumber can diagnose.

What brand of dishwasher is most reliable? ›

In the search for the most reliable dishwasher, a great place to start is by narrowing down your options to the most trusted brands. Bosch, ASKO, GE, Maytag, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid stand out as reputable choices known for their commitment to quality and performance.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking dishwasher? ›

The national average range for dishwasher repairs is between $100 and $300, with most homeowners spending around $200 to fix a leaky dishwasher. Some jobs are much cheaper, such as replacing a worn seal, and cost approximately $50. Other parts can be much more expensive like a replacement motor, which costs up to $600.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old dishwasher? ›

Is it worth repairing a seven-year-old dishwasher? Once your dishwasher is past the warranty period and is over four years old, you may want to consider replacing it entirely. To help you decide, ask yourself if your dishwasher's repairs far exceed the cost of a new dishwasher.

What is the most common cause of a dishwasher leaking? ›

Leaky gasket: A faulty door gasket is one of the most common causes of dishwasher leaks. Water on the kitchen floor in front of the dishwasher could indicate a leaking door gasket. It's easy to find out – simply open the dishwasher and check the seal around the door.

How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher door seal? ›

The dishwasher gasket typically costs $50 to $150 to replace. The gasket keeps the water inside the dishwasher until it exits via the drain hose. If the gasket fails, the dishwasher will leak, and you'll end up with a mess in your kitchen.

Why is the dishwasher leaking from the bottom? ›

If you find that your dishwasher is leaking from the bottom, this is most likely due to a leaky gasket and can be indicated by water on the floor in front of the dishwasher. If you notice that the dishwasher is leaking from underneath, you could also have a cracked hose or faulty valves connection issue.

Why is there water in the bottom of my dishwasher? ›

Water can sit in the bottom of your dishwasher when there's a clog. A dirty filter is often the cause. When the filter collects food and debris, it prevents water from draining. Many homeowners are unaware that filters need regular cleaning and replacement.

Why is my whirlpool dishwasher leaking from the bottom? ›

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher is leaking from the bottom are a faulty pump and motor assembly, clogged water valve or a cracked drain hose.

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