Washing Machine Leaking
If your washing machine is leaking water, it is important to act quickly to prevent damage to your floor and surrounding units. There are several possible causes, some of which can be identified and resolved at home before calling an engineer.
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Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?
A leaking washing machine can cause significant damage if left unaddressed. The first thing to do is turn off the machine at the mains and turn off the water supply tap before investigating further. The location of the leak is the most useful clue — whether it is coming from the front, back or underneath the machine helps to identify the cause.
Common Causes
Pump filter cap not fitted correctly
The most common cause of a leak from the front bottom of the machine. If the pump filter cap was recently cleaned and not refitted tightly, water will leak from the filter housing during the cycle.
Damaged or worn door seal
The rubber door seal can develop cracks, tears or mould build-up over time. A damaged seal allows water to escape from the front of the machine during the wash cycle.
Loose or damaged inlet hose
If the water inlet hose connection at the back of the machine is loose or the hose itself is cracked or split, water will leak from the rear of the machine when it fills.
Loose or damaged drain hose
A loose or split drain hose connection can cause water to leak from the back of the machine during draining.
Too much detergent
Excess foam produced by too much detergent can overflow from the detergent drawer or the drum seal and appear as a leak from the front of the machine.
Faulty drum seal or bearings
If the drum bearings have worn, the drum seal can fail and allow water to leak into the base of the machine. This is usually accompanied by a loud rumbling noise during the spin cycle.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Turn off immediately
Switch the machine off at the mains and turn off the water supply tap as soon as you notice a leak. Mop up any standing water before investigating.
Check the pump filter cap
Locate the pump filter at the bottom front of the machine and ensure the cap is screwed in tightly. Even a small gap can cause a significant leak during the cycle.
Check the door seal
Inspect the rubber door seal for any visible cracks, tears or debris. Clean the seal thoroughly with a damp cloth and check for damage. Small tears can sometimes be repaired with a washing machine door seal repair kit.
Check the hose connections
Inspect the inlet and drain hose connections at the back of the machine. Ensure both are firmly seated and tighten any loose connections by hand. Check the hoses themselves for cracks or splits.
Check the detergent drawer
Remove the detergent drawer and clean it thoroughly. Ensure you are using the correct amount of detergent and that it is going into the correct compartment.
When To Contact A Professional
If the leak persists after the above checks, or if the leak is coming from inside the machine rather than from a hose or filter, there is likely an internal fault such as a failed drum seal, worn bearings or a cracked drum that requires professional diagnosis and repair. Do not continue to use a leaking washing machine. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Washing Machine Fault Guides
Washing Machine Making Loud Noise
Washing Machine Stopping Mid-Cycle
Washing Machine Not Filling With Water
Related Guides
Washing machine error codes — all brands
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