A dirty dishwasher, no matter the cause, is a horrible sight and an unhappy problem. But, this is still nothing compared to an actual leak. Leaks and broken pipes in the kitchen represent a threat to not just the integrity of your dishwasher, but your home as a whole.
So, how do you approach a problem as serious as a leaking dishwasher? What causes leaks, and how are they fixed? These questions and more are in the article below.
Keep reading!
Check the Door Seal
If you have a dishwasher that is leaking, the first thing you should check is the door seal. The door seal is the rubber gasket that goes around the door of the dishwasher and if there is damage to the door seal that can cause the dishwasher to leak.
You can check the door seal by following these steps:
- Open the dishwasher door
- Look for any gaps or cracks
- Use markings to identify the cracks
If there is damage to the door seal, you will need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement door seal at most hardware stores.
Check the Hose Connection
Do not forget to check the hose connection. If the hose is not properly connected, it can cause a leak. You can check the hose connection by following these steps:
- Turn off the water
- Unscrew the hose connection
- Inspect the connection for any cracks or leaks
- Tighten the connection
- Turn on the water in the dishwasher
- Test for leaks
Once you have checked the connection, you should also check for any kinks or cracks in the hose. If you find any, you should replace the hose.
Check the Pump and Motor Assembly
If your dishwasher is leaking, check the pump and motor assembly.
The pump and motor assembly are responsible for circulating water throughout the dishwasher. If the pump and motor assembly are leaking, it may be because there is damage to the seals and gaskets.
You can check the pump and motor assembly by removing the lower dish rack and looking for any signs of the dishwasher leaking from the bottom.
If you see water leaking from the bottom of the dishwasher, check the pump and motor assembly for any signs of damage.
If there is damage to the assembly, you will need to replace them. If not, you may need to replace the seals or gaskets around the pump and motor assembly.
Call a Professional
If you have a dishwashing machine, there’s a chance that it might leak and it might get out of hand before you know it. Sometimes it is best to leave it to professional dishwasher repair services.
Here are hints on when to call a professional for help:
- Cannot locate the source of the leak
- If the leak is severe
- If you are not comfortable with doing repairs
Hiring a repair company is best it comes to a leaking dishwasher. They can also give you tips on how to keep your appliances in spick and span.
Causes of a Leaking Dishwasher
There are many potential causes of a dishwasher leaking. Some common causes include:
Clogged or Broken Dishwasher Drain Hoses
The hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to the drain. If the hose is clogged, the water has nowhere to go and will leak out.
If the hose is broken, the water will also leak out.
Damaged Door Seal
A dishwasher’s door seal is responsible for keeping water from leaking out of the dishwasher. Over time, the door seal can become damaged, which can cause the dishwasher to leak.
The most common cause of a damaged door seal is simply worn and tear. The damage to the seal can also come from a foreign object, such as a piece of dishes or silverware.
Failed Pump
There are many possible causes of a dishwasher leak, but one of the most common is a failed pump. The pump is responsible for circulating water through the dishwasher, and if it fails, water can leak out.
Faulty Inlet Valve
The inlet valve is responsible for bringing water into the dishwasher. If this valve is faulty, it can cause water to leak from the dishwasher.
In some cases, the inlet valve may become clogged with debris, which can also cause water to leak.
Float Switch
A float switch is one of the most common causes of a leaking dishwasher. The float switch is near the bottom of the dishwasher and is responsible for detecting when the dishwasher is full of water.
If the float switch is defective, it can cause the dishwasher to leak.
Water Inlet Valve
This valve is responsible for regulating the water flow into the dishwasher, and if it is not working properly, it can cause the dishwasher to leak.
In some cases, the water inlet valve may be completely defective and will need replacement. Other times, it may just need cleaning or adjustment.
If your dishwasher is leaking, check all of these potential causes to narrow down the problem. Once you identify the cause of the leak, you can then take the appropriate steps to fix it.
Fix a Leaking Dishwasher Today
Do not panic if you have a leaking dishwasher. The good news is that there are a few things you can do. Check the gasket and door seal for cracks or holes and replace them if necessary.
Make sure the dishwasher is level and that there is no food or grease build-up blocking the drain. If none of these solutions work, you may need to call a professional.
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