Water leak from washer: Quick fixes to get your machine running
Finding a puddle spreading out from under your washing machine is a heart-sinking moment. But before you panic, know that it's often caused by something simple, like a loose hose connection or a tired-out door seal. The first thing to do, though, is focus on safety.
Your First Steps When You Find a Washer Leak
Discovering water where it shouldn't be can feel alarming, but a few quick actions can stop a small problem from turning into a major headache.
First, get that machine unplugged. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, so pull the plug from the wall socket immediately.
Next, you need to cut off the water. You should find the supply taps on the wall directly behind your appliance. Turn both clockwise until they won't budge any further. If you can't get to them easily, you might need to shut off the main supply for the house. We've got a handy guide on how to turn off your water mains if you're not sure how.
With the immediate risks handled, grab some old towels and get that spill soaked up. This is vital for protecting your floors from warping or developing mould. If the water has already seeped in, you may need to look into professional water damage floor repair.
Finding the Source of the Leak
With the mess contained, it’s time to find the leak. Most washing machine leaks come from just a handful of usual suspects.
Start at the back of the machine where the hoses connect. Check both the fill and drain hoses for cracks, splits, or signs of ageing. Make sure they're screwed on tight at both ends – a loose connection is a very common culprit.
Now, move to the front. Open the door and inspect the large rubber seal, also known as the gasket. Feel for any tears or holes. Grime and mildew can also prevent a proper seal, allowing water to trickle out.
Sometimes, the problem is a blockage causing water to back up. If the drain pipe is clogged, the water has nowhere to go but out onto your floor. If you suspect this, our guide on how to unblock a washing machine waste pipe will walk you through it.
Matching Symptoms to Common Leak Sources
This table quickly connects what you're seeing with the most likely cause.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Where to Check First |
|---|---|---|
| Puddle at the back of the machine | Loose or split hose | Fill and drain hose connections |
| Water trickling from the front door | Damaged or dirty door seal | Rubber gasket around the door opening |
| Water appears during the fill cycle | Faulty inlet valve | Where the fill hoses connect to the machine |
| Leak appears during the drain cycle | Clogged drain filter or hose | Drain pump filter and the drain hose |
| Water leaking from underneath | Cracked pump or internal hose | The machine's internal components (requires access) |
If you’ve checked all the obvious spots and are still unsure, it might be an internal issue. For hidden leaks, professional water leak detection services can be a lifesaver, using specialist tools to pinpoint the problem.
Simple DIY Fixes for Common Washer Leaks
Once you’ve found the source of the leak, you might find many repairs are straightforward.
A loose fill or drain hose often just needs to be tightened with pliers. If you spot a crack in the hose, a replacement is inexpensive and easy to fit.
Another common issue is the door seal. If it’s just dirty, a wipe-down with a cloth and a vinegar-water solution can help. If the rubber is torn, however, it will need replacing.
Blockages are another easy fix. Clogged detergent drawers or a blocked drain pump filter can usually be cleared out by hand, restoring normal flow instantly.
When You Should Call a Professional Engineer
While DIY fixes are satisfying, it's crucial to know when to call a professional. A water leak from washer isn't always a simple job.
If the leak is from underneath the machine, or if you suspect it involves internal components like the motor or main drum bearing, it's time to call an expert. Diving into the machine’s inner workings without proper training can turn a small problem into a bigger one or create a safety hazard.
For these tricky situations, a Go Assist engineer provides complete peace of mind. Our experienced technicians have the right diagnostic tools and genuine parts to sort out any issue, no matter the brand.
Don't risk it. If you're out of your depth or the leak is more than a simple loose hose, it's always safer to get professional help. If the water damage has spread, you might need to know how to find a good plumber.
How to Prevent Future Washer Leaks
The best fix is stopping a leak from happening in the first place. A few simple maintenance habits can make a massive difference.
Check your inlet and drain hoses every so often for bulging, cracking, or general wear and tear. It's good practice to replace them every three to five years anyway.
Clean out your drain pump filter every few months. This is where coins, fluff, and other items get caught, and clearing them out stops blockages.
After a wash, give the rubber door seal a quick wipe with a dry cloth. This prevents grime build-up and keeps the rubber supple, ensuring a watertight seal.
Finally, resist the temptation to overload your machine. Shoving in extra laundry puts stress on the drum, bearings, and seals, which is a common cause of leaks.
Your Leaking Washing Machine Questions Answered
When you find a puddle of water, it’s natural to have questions. Here are the answers to some common queries.
Why Has My Washing Machine Suddenly Started Leaking?
A sudden leak usually points to a single fault, not a total machine meltdown. It's often a loose or split water inlet hose, a clogged drain pump filter causing a backup, or a torn rubber door seal. Don't panic; it's almost always a specific part that needs attention.
Can I Just Put a Towel Down and Use It If It’s Only a Small Drip?
We strongly advise against this. Even a slow drip can cause significant trouble for your flooring over time, leading to expensive repairs and mould. Plus, mixing water and electricity is a serious safety hazard. Stop using the machine immediately and get the leak sorted.
Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace My Leaking Washer?
This comes down to the age of your machine and the cause of the leak. If your washer is relatively new (under five years old), a repair is almost always more cost-effective. Simple fixes like a new hose are very affordable. However, if you have an older machine with a major problem, like a failing drum bearing, investing in a new appliance might be the smarter financial move.
If you're dealing with a stubborn leak or suspect a more complex internal fault, don't risk causing more damage. The expert engineers at Go Assist can diagnose and sort the issue out quickly and safely. Book your washing machine repair online today for a fast, reliable service you can count on.
