Tumble Dryer Leaking Water
If your tumble dryer is leaking water, the appliance is allowing condensed moisture to escape rather than collecting it correctly. This is most common on condenser and heat pump dryers. In many cases the cause can be identified and resolved at home without the need for an engineer.
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Select your tumble dryer brand below for a specific guide including the relevant error codes for your appliance.
Why Is My Tumble Dryer Leaking Water?
Water leaking from a tumble dryer is most common on condenser and heat pump models, which extract moisture from the air and collect it in a water tank. Vented dryers push moist air out through an exhaust duct and do not normally produce visible water unless the duct is blocked. Identifying where the water is coming from is the first step to diagnosing the cause.
Common Causes
Water tank not correctly fitted (condenser and heat pump dryers)
If the condensate water tank is not pushed fully into its housing, water will overflow from the tank rather than being collected. This is the most common cause of water appearing around a condenser dryer.
Full water tank overflowing
If the water tank has not been emptied and is completely full, water will overflow from the tank during the cycle. The tank should be emptied before every cycle on machines that are used frequently.
Blocked condenser causing overflow (condenser dryers)
A heavily clogged condenser can cause water to back up and overflow within the machine rather than being directed to the collection tank.
Blocked or kinked drain hose (if plumbed in)
Some condenser dryers can be plumbed directly into a drain. If the drain hose is blocked or kinked, water will back up and leak from the machine.
Damaged door seal
A cracked or damaged door seal on the drum opening can allow moisture to escape from the front of the machine during the cycle.
Internal hose or component fault
A split or disconnected internal hose within the condensate circuit can cause water to leak inside the machine and appear on the floor.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Empty and refit the water tank
Remove the water tank, empty it fully and refit it firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure it is fully seated and not sitting proud of its housing.
Clean the condenser
Remove the condenser unit, rinse it thoroughly under running water, allow it to dry completely and refit it firmly.
Check the drain hose (if plumbed in)
Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or blockages and ensure it is correctly connected.
Check the door seal
Inspect the rubber door seal for any visible cracks or damage. Clean it thoroughly with a damp cloth.
Reset the machine
Unplug the appliance from the mains and wait at least two minutes. Plug back in and retry the cycle.
When To Contact A Professional
If the leak persists after refitting the tank, cleaning the condenser and checking the hose, there is likely an internal fault such as a split hose or damaged component within the condensate circuit. This will need to be diagnosed and repaired by a qualified engineer. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Tumble Dryer Fault Guides
Tumble Dryer Not Drying Clothes Properly
Tumble Dryer Stopping Mid-Cycle
Tumble Dryer Making Loud Noise
Related Guides
Tumble dryer error codes — all brands
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