Washing Machine Leaking
Common causes and checks you can carry out at home before calling an engineer.
🛑 Act 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 further.
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 the draining phase of the cycle.
🧴
Too Much Detergent
Excess foam from 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. Usually accompanied by a loud rumbling noise during the spin cycle. Requires professional repair.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
🔧
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 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 any 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 for your wash type.
Browse by Brand
Select your washing machine brand for leak-related error codes and specific guides.
🔧
When to call a professional — If the leak persists after the above checks, or if it 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. Do not continue to use a leaking machine.
View all washing machine error codes →🔧 Need a spare part? Find compatible parts for your appliance on Amazon with next day Prime delivery. Please double-check the part is compatible with your specific model before ordering. Find parts on Amazon
♻️ Not worth repairing? If your appliance has had its day, eco-friendly refurbished appliances are available at Renew 2 U — better for your wallet and the planet.
