There are a few reasons why your washing machine might start to leak. And if it is, it’s really important to sort it out as soon as possible. That’s because ignoring it could cause lasting damage to your appliance and even your home.
But before you start trying to fix your washing machine, know that you should only do it if you’re an expert yourself. Some warranties are voided if a non-professional opens up a washing machine for repairs. And if you do decide to fix it yourself, remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions.
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If your washing machine is broken and you don’t know what to do, just contact our repair experts and tell them what the problem is. They’ll advise you on whether it can be fixed or not.
Why is my washing machine leaking from underneath?
A few things could be causing water to pool under your washing machine. Here are the most common reasons:
Damaged door seal: If your washing machine leaks when it fills for a cycle, it could be due to a worn out tub seal.
Faulty water level switch: Your machine might be leaking because it’s overfilling with water. This would point to a problem with the water level switch, which is designed to control how high the tub fills with water.
Clogged drain pump: A leak during the spin cycle could hint at an obstructed water pump that can’t remove water properly and overflows.
Leaking hoses: Your washing machine’s water supply inlet and drain hoses can form cracks or become disconnected/loose over time, leading to leaks.
Uneven washing machine: Make sure your appliance is evenly balanced using a spirit level. If it’s not, you should be able to adjust the feet to make it level.
Washing machine leaking from the door
If your washing machine is leaking from the door, the seals might be damaged. Over time, washer door seals can get ripped, torn or simply start to perish. If this happens, it could allow water to leak out during the wash cycle.
Another reason could be because the door itself has a fault. Look closely for cracks and holes that might be the cause. If you can’t find any obvious damage, check the door seal for signs of wear and tear. Either way, you’ll need to get the replacement sorted by a professional.
Water leaking into the washing machine
Is water leaking into your washing machine when it’s turned off? If so, there could be a problem with the washer inlet valve, which allows water to flow into the tub during a wash cycle.
To check the condition of your washing machine’s washer inlet valve, follow these steps:
Unplug your washing machine and pull it away from the wall.
Find the inlet valve on the back of your machine (refer to your owner’s manual if you’re unsure where it is).
Inspect it for cracks or holes. If you see any, you’ll need to get it replaced by a professional.
How to clean your washing machine filter
If your washing machine can't drain due to a clogged filter, excess water can build up and cause overflows and leaks. That’s why you need to clean your washing machine filter regularly, at least once a month. Here’s how to do it:
Turn off your washing machine: Make sure to unplug it from the wall too.
Find the filter: It’s usually at the bottom of your washing machine behind a small panel (your owner’s manual should tell you exactly where it is).
Remove the filter: You’ll need to open the cover or panel and take it out. Have a towel or bucket handy in case any water spills out.
Clean the filter: Run it under a tap to remove dirt, debris, and lint. You could also use a soft brush to give it a gentle scrub.
Give the filter panel a clean: While you’re at it, you might as well check inside the filter cover and give that a once over too.
Put the filter back in: Re-insert your washing machine’s filter and close the cover.
Turn on your washing machine: Plug your appliance back in and run a short cycle to make sure it's working properly.
Need any more help?
If you want to make sure your washing machine lasts as long as possible, we’ve got some tips on how to clean a washing machine and keep it odour free.
And if you’re pretty sure it’s time for a new appliance, check out our huge range of washing machines and our washing machine buying guide for additional advice. If you’re not sure whether your current model needs replacing, give our 6 signs it’s time to replace your washing machine article a read.
