December 28/2020

What Causes a Fridge to Leak Water?

Running into a puddle of water around your refrigerator is never a pleasant experience, especially if the source is unknown. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have a lot of experience with leaking refrigerators and we are here to tell you that you should not stress. The cause of the clog is not always easy to find, but there are the usual suspects. These are some of the most common causes of a leaking fridge and how to fix them. If you would like the assistance of a local plumber, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing anytime. We are ready to help.

Blocked Defrost Drain

The defrost drain carries water produced during a defrost cycle to a pan at the bottom of the refrigerator where it evaporates. A blockage in the drain hose will cause melted condensation to leak on the floor. The tube itself might be located in a variety of places, so check your owner’s manual to find yours. 
Use a hair dryer on the low setting to melt any ice, then insert a screwdriver into the drain tube to clear out any remaining blockage. Fill a turkey baster with hot water and bleach, then flush the drain hole with the mixture. Finally, use a drain snake or pipe cleaner to clear out the blockage.

Cracked Drain Pan

The defrost drain mentioned earlier carries water to a pan at the bottom of the refrigerator. Normally, this water evaporates and there is never a reason to empty or clean it out. If the pan is cracked or damaged, however, then you are inevitably going to have water leak onto your floors.
The fix is simple. Pull out the drain pan and replace it if it is cracked or damaged. Your local hardware store should have some. Be sure to bring the old one so you pick the right replacement.

Water Line Leak

Who doesn’t like to get a cold glass of water from their refrigerator on demand? These refrigerators offer water because they are connected to a water line and it is that water line that might be the culprit. A loose or damaged water line can cause leaking in the rear of the fridge.
Try tightening the water line’s connection point. If the hose is pinched or leaking, then head out to find a replacement for the hose.

Open Fridge Door

Leaving your fridge door open will have the refrigerator working overtime to cool. The result will be a puddle of condensation around the fridge. Be sure to double check that the fridge door is shut. Clean the rubber seals with soap and water if it is not shutting like it should.

Fallen Ice

This one might sound silly, but it is valid. Many times, kids – and even adults – kick ice under the fridge rather than pick up. Once the ice melts, you have a wet floor. Fortunately, all you have to do in this case is clean up the mess and put up a sign telling everyone not to kick ice under the fridge! Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing now to schedule an experienced plumber in your area for any type of leak detection and repair services.