- Why is your washing machine leaking?
- Common leak causes for different brands
- How to fix common washing machine leaks, explained
- Tips for preventing future washing machine leaks
When your washing machine is leaking, your first response may be to panic. However, it may not be the big disaster you think it is. Believe it or not, your machine may be letting out water for many reasons. In this guide, we'll take a look at the common causes of washing machine leaks, how you can solve the problem, and how to prevent future ones.
Why is your washing machine leaking?
First, let's put on our detective hats and figure out the problem. When a washing machine leaks, it's essential to identify the cause quickly. Here are some of the most frequent reasons why washing machines leak, plus where you might find the source.
When it's leaking from underneath
Why is my washing machine leaking from underneath? When you're dealing with leaks from the bottom of the machine, it may be related to the internal hoses, the drain pump, or water pipes. You can investigate each of these to see what the issue is and where the leak is coming from.
The drain pump, which essentially pumps water from the machine, can develop cracks or become loose. When this happens, leaks can also start.
Similarly, the internal water hoses that supply water to the drum can loosen. This usually results in a leak underneath the machine. Before you do anything else, it may be worth checking both of these pipes to see whether that is the cause of your washing machine leaking.
When it's leaking from the door
If you're using front-load washers like the Samsung front-load and other machines, you may encounter this common problem. A damaged or poorly sealed door can lead to leaking. You might notice water coming out of the front door during the cycle.
The reason could be wear and tear. Over time, the rubber seal on your door can wear down or start to rip, causing a washing machine to leak from the door. Check the sealant first and see whether there are any gaps or spaces between it.
If that's not the cause, you may be overloading the machine. Putting too many items in the drum can push water past the seal, causing leaks around the door. Try doing smaller loads and see whether that makes a difference to your washing machine leaking first.
When it's leaking from the drawer
Wait a minute — what if your washing machine leaks from the drawer? If so, there's usually a simple reason. It's likely because of a clog or detergent buildup in that part of the machine.
Have you been cleaning the drawer? When detergent residue builds up, it can block water flow. Water may leak from the drawer, leaving you with a big mess.
Similarly, if you use too much detergent, it creates extra suds. These suds can quickly overflow from the drawer, causing a leak.
When it's leaking from the drain pipe
Next, what happens when the leak is coming from a drain pipe? While this may look serious, it typically points to clogs or issues with the drain hose. You don't need to panic.
If the hose is clogged, water can back up and leak out of the drain pipe. That may well be the cause. Alternatively, you need to ensure the drain hose is attached correctly to both the washing machine and the drain.
When it's leaking even though it's off
Why is my washing machine leaking when not in use? Okay, this may be a weird one, but it can happen. It usually means there's an issue with the water inlet valve or that residual water is slowly dripping from a leak somewhere in the machine.
In basic terms, water slowly leaks into the machine and out onto the floor when this valve doesn't close properly. On the other hand, if there's water left in the machine, a small leak could allow it to seep out slowly, even when not in use.
Common leak causes for different brands
Of course, each brand of washing machine has its quirks. Based on the machine's manufacturer, let's look at some of the common causes of this problem.
Samsung washing machines
Like any machine, Samsung front-load washers can develop leaks. Always check the seal. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your Samsung washer.
Beko washing machines
Beko washers are popular, and while they are generally reliable, they can experience leaks from the drawer or door. A thorough check of the seal and drawer can prevent many of these issues.
Maytag and Whirlpool washers
Maytag and Whirlpool are mostly known for their durability. However, these machines can develop leaks over time, particularly from the drain pump and hoses.
How to fix common washing machine leaks, explained
If you think you understand the cause of your leaking washing machine, you may be able to fix it yourself. Here's a quick rundown of the easiest ways to deal with this common problem.
How to fix a leaking pipe
Step 1: Tighten up loose connections
Start by checking all the connections and tightening any loose hoses. You should be able to do this yourself. Of course, you must ensure the water is turned off first.
Step 2: Replace damaged pipes
If possible, replace any damaged pipes with new ones. If you're not an expert, it's worth calling a plumber to help you with this task.
How to replace a door sealant
If your washing machine leaks through the door, you must take action. A damaged door seal on a front-load washer is common, especially with brands like Samsung and Beko.
Step 1: Clean the seal first
Start by inspecting the sealant around the door. Dirt can sometimes prevent a solid seal. Clean the rubber seal with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Step 2: Replace the seal
If you can see that the seal is damaged, consider purchasing a replacement. Many parts are available online for models like Samsung washers, Beko machines, and Maytag washers. Follow the manufacturer's advice regarding this replacement, or have an expert do it.
How to clear out your machine's drawer
Try the following steps When the washing machine leaks from the drawer.
Step 1: Clean the drawer out
Pull out the drawer completely and clean out any detergent residue. Get into all the cracks and ensure you get everything out of there.
Step 2: Try using less detergent
To avoid excessive suds and potential leaks, use only the recommended amount of detergent and use less in the future.
Tips for preventing future washing machine leaks
Of course, you want to avoid future washing machine leaks above all else. Here are some of the simple ways you can do just that:
- Check the pipes. Make sure that you regularly check the pipes for your washing machine. The sooner you notice problems, the better.
- Clean the filter. Clean your washing machine's filter regularly, always following the brand's guidelines.
- Avoid overloading your machine. As we've covered, overloading your machine can be a dangerous game. Avoid this at all costs.
- Don't use too much detergent. You should also be careful not to use too much detergent while running cycles.
It can be super stressful when your washing machine is leaking. Use our handy guide to help you figure out the cause and deal with the issue quickly. Of course, if the problem looks too severe for you to handle alone, always call an expert or a plumber to get the job done.
Q&A
Did we miss something along the way? Take a look at our frequently asked questions now.
Is it worth fixing a leaking washing machine?
Yes! Believe it or not, many causes of a washing machine leak are easy to fix. Take the time to figure out the problem and save yourself the price of a new machine.
What is the life expectancy of a washing machine?
A decent washing machine should last between 10 and 13 years. However, the length of its life will depend mainly on the quality of the product and how you use it.
Can overloading a washer cause it to leak?
Yes, putting too much in the washing machine drum may cause it to leak. Avoid doing massive washes, opting for smaller, more manageable loads.
Have we stopped the leak? Let us know in the comments below!
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