A leaking dishwasher can damage your floor and cabinets quickly, so it’s worth acting the first time you see water. The location of the leak, and when it happens, tells you a lot about the cause.
First: wipe up the water, turn off the dishwasher, and if water keeps leaking, close the water supply valve under the sink.
Leaking From the Door
- Too much or the wrong detergent. Regular dish soap, or too much detergent, makes suds that push out through the door. Use only dishwasher detergent, in the recommended amount.
- Loading. A large pan or tray at the front of the rack can deflect spray straight onto the door seal.
- Door gasket. Check the rubber seal around the door for food debris, cracks or a section that has come loose. Clean it with warm soapy water. A damaged gasket needs to be replaced.
- Level. A dishwasher that tilts forward lets water reach the door. Use a level on the door opening and adjust the front legs.
- Door hinges or latch. If the door doesn’t close firmly, the seal can’t do its job.
Leaking From Underneath
Water underneath is usually from a part at the bottom of the dishwasher. These are the common sources:
- Drain hose or connection at the sink drain or garbage disposal. Check the clamp and look for cracks in the hose.
- Water inlet valve or supply line. Leaks here often happen during the fill, or even when the dishwasher is off.
- Pump or pump seal. Leaks during the wash or drain portion of the cycle.
- Spray arm or tub seals that let water escape into the base.
- A cracked tub, which is less common, usually on older dishwashers.
Many dishwashers have a float switch or a leak sensor in the base. If water collects there, the dishwasher may stop and show an error code, or keep draining.
When Does It Leak?
- During the fill: the inlet valve, the supply line or a float switch that doesn’t stop the fill.
- During the wash: the door gasket, the spray arm, the pump seal, or suds.
- During the drain: the drain hose, the pump or a clogged drain that backs water up.
- When the dishwasher is off: a leaking supply connection or a valve that doesn’t close fully.
Checks You Can Do Safely
- Clean the filter in the bottom of the tub. A clogged filter can make water back up.
- Check the spray arms for cracks and make sure they turn freely.
- Clean and inspect the door gasket.
- Check the level and that the dishwasher is securely mounted to the counter.
- With the dishwasher off, remove the kick plate at the bottom and look underneath with a flashlight for drips, water marks or a wet insulation pad.
When to Call a Technician
If water comes from under the dishwasher, if it leaks with the right detergent and a good gasket, or if you see water damage on the floor or cabinet, have it checked. Replacing pumps, valves and seals means disconnecting water and power. Wet dishes too? Read why a dishwasher isn’t drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dishwasher leaking from the bottom of the door?
Usually a dirty or worn door gasket, too many suds, a dishwasher that leans forward, or items that spray water at the door.
Can I use dish soap in a dishwasher?
No. Regular dish soap makes too many suds and causes leaks. Use dishwasher detergent only.
Is it safe to keep using a leaking dishwasher?
It’s better not to. Even small leaks can damage flooring and cabinets and lead to mold.
Is a leaking dishwasher worth repairing?
Gaskets, hoses, valves and pump seals are common repairs. A cracked tub on an older dishwasher is usually a reason to replace it.
Book Dishwasher Leak Repair
Our certified technicians repair dishwashers from Bosch, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Samsung, LG, Maytag, Frigidaire, Miele and more, in Sacramento, West Sacramento, Davis, Woodland, Dixon, Vacaville, Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova. Same-day service is available. See our appliance repair services, call (510) 677-7166 or book online.
