Fixing a Leaky Refrigerator

2nd Mar 2015

DIY Tip: Refrigerator is Leaking Water

Troubleshoot
A pool of water spreading from under your refrigerator or cabinets is never a good thing. Refrigerators use a significant amount of water to conduct their business. Occasionally, problems pop up that cause this water to start leaking. Repairing the situation of a leaking refrigerator first requires a little troubleshooting to determine the exact cause. Once you find out what the cause is, the solution to your wet floor is relatively easy to figure out.

Water Inlet ValveIf the refrigerator is leaking water the water valve may be cracked or have a loose fitting. If the water inlet valve does not shut off properly and the water pressure is good, replace the water inlet valve.

Water Tank Assembly
The tank can sometimes be made up of coiled tubing and is usually located behind the crisper drawers, behind a panel in the refrigerator section. If a leak is discovered, replace it.
Drain Pan
Your leaking refrigerator may just have a cracked or damaged drain pan. Your fridge regularly drains water into this pan to prevent water pooling in the fridge itself. Evaporation takes care of the rest. Look underneath your fridge where the drain pan sits and pull it out for inspection.
Water Filter
If the refrigerator is leaking water the water filter housing, head, or filter itself may be the issue. The filter itself might not be installed correctly. Be sure it is installed properly. As for the filter housing and head be sure to inspect them thoroughly and replace it if any cracks or defects are found.
Clogged or Freezing Defrost Drain
If your leaking refrigerator is draining inside as opposed to onto your floor, you're probably dealing with a clogged defrost drain. This defrost drain can become clogged with debris or, more often, it freezes shut. Look in your refrigerator manual to locate your defrost drain, and take the appropriate steps to unclog it (inundating your drain with warm water will often do the trick).