Dishwasher Leaking
If your dishwasher is leaking, it is important to act quickly to prevent water damage to your kitchen 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 Dishwasher Leaking?
The first thing to do when you notice a dishwasher leak is to turn the machine off at the mains and turn off the water supply tap under the sink. Mop up any standing water before investigating further. The location of the leak — front, sides or underneath — is the most useful clue to identifying the cause.
Common Causes
Worn or damaged door seal
The most common cause of a leak from the front of the machine. The rubber door seal can crack, harden or become misaligned over time, allowing water to escape during the cycle.
Too much detergent or wrong detergent type
Using too much detergent or a detergent not designed for automatic dishwashers produces excessive foam, which can overflow through the door seal and appear as a leak from the front of the machine.
Loose or damaged inlet hose
A loose connection or split in the water inlet hose at the back of the machine will cause water to leak from the rear during the fill phase.
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.
Blocked filter causing overflow
A severely blocked filter can prevent water from draining from the tub, causing it to overflow through the door seal.
Faulty door latch
If the door latch is not holding the door firmly closed during the cycle, water can escape through the gap.
Flood protection device triggered
Many dishwashers have a flood protection device in the base of the machine. If water has leaked internally and collected in the base tray, the machine will stop and may display an error code. This water will need to be removed before the machine will operate again.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Turn off immediately
Switch off at the mains and turn off the water supply tap as soon as you notice a leak.
Check the door seal
Inspect the rubber door seal for any visible cracks, tears or debris. Clean it thoroughly and check that it is sitting correctly in its groove all the way around the door.
Check the detergent
Ensure you are using dishwasher-specific detergent at the correct dosage. Never use washing up liquid in a dishwasher.
Check the hose connections
Inspect the inlet and drain hose connections at the back of the machine. Ensure both are firmly seated and check the hoses for cracks or splits.
Clean the filter
Remove and clean the filter to ensure the tub is draining freely.
When To Contact A Professional
If the leak persists after the above checks, or if the flood protection device has been triggered, there is likely an internal fault that requires professional diagnosis and repair. Do not continue to use a leaking dishwasher. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Dishwasher Fault Guides
Dishwasher Not Filling With Water
Dishwasher Not Washing Properly
Related Guides
Dishwasher error codes — all brands
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