The wet sudsy floor around the washing machine? Perhaps, your washing machine might have some leaks.
With nearly 9 out of 10 households owning a washing machine, water leakage is not an uncommon household occurrence. According to a report, leaking is among the most common washing machine issues responded to by technicians. And while these workhorses are very durable, with a life expectancy of 11 years, minor issues can become apparent over time. If left unattended, these issues can lead to more serious problems and even shorten the serviceable years of the unit.
Water leaks can occur while the machine is being used or after washing. Either way, leaks can be easily resolved by eliminating the culprit. If the machine leaks while in use, the potential problem could be a leaking drum or a bad seal. On the other hand, if the leak occurs while the unit is on standby, the leak might originate from the water source.
Here let’s check out some of the most common causes of leaking washing machines.
Water source
When looking for potential causes, first check the water feeder lines or the hoses that supply water to the unit. Typically, these rubber hoses are connected to the appliance using metal hose ends. However, these connectors can dry out and split, or come loose.
Unplug the washing machine and move it away from the wall. Check if the metal hose ends are tightly secured and look for drips around the connectors. Inspect the full length of the hose for any splits, cracks, or signs of a leak. If there is a leak, turn off the water source valves. If the leak stops, then the feeder lines are likely damaged and will need to be changed.
Clogged floor drain
An appliance technician at Hartman’s appliance repair recommends owners check the floor drain before calling them in. Over time, debris and residue build-up can plug the drain. As a result, water cannot completely flow.
Before disassembling your unit, remove the cover and check for any plug. Pour in hot water down the pipe or use commercial liquid drain cleaners. You can also use a drain snake to remove large debris.
Leaking internal hose
A leak can also be due to cracks or perforations along with the internal hoses, which connect the inlet valve to the tub. To check internal hoses, open up the washing machine’s cabinet. Fill the tub with water and check for drip along with the hose. Inspect the spring clamps if they are corroded or loosened. If any of these parts leak, you will have to replace them. Also, check if there are any signs of dampness inside the unit.
Take note, however, that opening the washing machine cabinet might void the warranty. If the appliance is still under warranty period, it might be best to have an authorized service repair center do the diagnosis. But if you don’t mind voiding the warranty and you’re comfortable doing it, you can proceed with checking the internal hose.
Water pump leak
Washing machine leaks can be due to leaking pumps, particularly faulty valves or seals. Water leaks can happen if these parts loosen, crack, or dried out. Typically, water leaks due to water pump issues stop once the water lines are shut off after using the washing machine.
To check if it is caused by the water pump, do a trial run with a few items and observe for leaks. After the cycle is done, shut off the water supply and unload the drum. Continue checking for possible drips on the floor immediately below the unit. If there are no leaks, then the problem could be within the tub. This would require the expertise of a certified technician.
Faulty seals
For front-load washing machines, the area between the outer tub and door is sealed off by rubber seals. The rubber seal should be tight to keep the tub from leaking. However, due to wear and tear, these rubber seals can harden and cracks may appear open. If the leak of the unit originates from around the door area, check if there is any debris, damage or build-up that hinders the rubber seal. Water leaks are most common either during the agitation or fill a portion of the cycle.
These are five of the most common issues that lead to washing machine leaks. If you are unsure about the cause, it is best to ask the help of professional technicians. They can help you diagnose and fix the problem.
