Everything You Need to Know About a Leaking Dishwasher

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

If you have a dishwasher, chances are you’ve noticed that it’s leaking at some point. If so, don’t worry: You are not alone. Most dishwashers leak at least once in their lifetime and most repairs can be done on your own without calling in a professional repairman for help. Here's what you need to know about the possible causes of leaking dishwashers and what to do if yours is leaking: 

Common Reasons for Leaking Dishwashers

There are several reasons your dishwasher might have a leak. Below are some of the most common causes:

? If your dishwasher is old, it may need to be replaced because it could be damaged or broken in some way.

? Improper installation or poorly installed parts could be the cause of the leak. It’s important that all parts are installed correctly so they function properly and don’t damage other appliances nearby or cause leaks in the machine itself. 

Torn Door Seal

If you have a leaking dishwasher, it could be an issue with the door seal. You will want to inspect this if you notice leaks. This can be done by visually inspecting it (and feeling for any wetness) to see if there are any tears in it. If you find that your door seal is torn, consider calling in a professional to replace it.

Cracked or Broken Water Supply Line

If you have a leaky dishwasher, the culprit could be that the water supply line has developed a small (or large) crack or hole. It's important to check this right away because it can lead to an expensive repair bill if left untreated for too long. Check for leaks by following these steps:

• Disconnect your dishwasher from its water source, usually at the house's outdoor spigot or inlet valve
• Turn off the power to your dishwasher before disconnecting it from its electrical source
• Make sure all connections are fully sealed and tightened (some connections may require pliers)
• Verify there are no leaks coming from any of these connections

Drain Line Leak

The drain line connection could have a leak. The drain line is the connection between your dishwasher and your drain, and it could be causing water to leak into your home. A loose fitting or damaged pipe can cause this issue, as well as damage to a valve or hose.

Valve or Hose Connection Leak

If you're seeing water leaking from your dishwasher, the first thing to check is whether something is broken inside of it. It could be that a valve or hose connected to the dishwasher is leaking.

Checking valves and hoses is simple and can often be done with just a screwdriver. The valve may be located under the sink, so it's worth looking there if you see water around your dishwasher area but can't find where exactly it came from (such as on top of or underneath). If you do find a leaky valve, it might require only minor repairs such as tightening some parts together or replacing them altogether. 

When in Doubt, Call the Professionals

A dishwasher is a convenient appliance for any home kitchen, but it can quickly become an inconvenience if it starts leaking. There are several common causes for a leaking dishwasher, if you suspect that your leaky dishwasher needs repair, call a professional to repair it.

If you experience water damage from your dishwasher leaking, SERVPRO of Norman is here to help clean up the mess and get your Norman home back to normal. Give us a call!