Common Reasons Your Fridge Is Leaking Water and How to Fix It

A puddle of water around your fridge is never a good sign. If you’re wondering, “Why is my fridge leaking water?” you’re not alone. There are a few common reasons why this happens, and the good news is that many of them are easy to fix. Here’s what might be causing the leak and how you can solve it:

1. Blocked Defrost Drain

Every fridge has a defrost drain that channels melted ice and condensation away. Over time, food particles, dirt, and debris can clog this drain, causing water to back up and leak onto the floor.

Fix: Use warm water to flush out the drain hole inside the fridge. A turkey baster or a small funnel can help. If the clog doesn’t clear, try using a pipe cleaner or a straightened coat hanger. Don’t forget to check the drain hose behind the fridge and clean it with soap and water.

2. Cracked Drain Pan

Your fridge has a drain pan underneath that collects excess moisture, which usually evaporates on its own. However, if the pan is cracked or damaged, water can leak out onto the floor instead.

Fix: Pull out the drain pan and inspect it for any cracks or damage. If you see any, replace it with a new one from your local hardware store. It’s a quick and easy fix!

3. Water Line Leak

If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, a loose or damaged water line could be the problem. Leaks usually happen near the back of the fridge, and you might also notice your ice maker isn’t working properly.

Fix: Check the water line and valve behind the fridge. If you see a leak at the connection, try tightening it. If the hose is cracked or pinched, trim the damaged section or replace the hose altogether.

4. Bad Water Filter Connection

A poorly installed or old water filter can cause leaks. If the filter isn’t the right size or isn’t secured properly, water can seep out.

Fix: Remove the filter and reinsert it, making sure it’s locked in place. If water is still leaking, replace the filter with a new one that matches the manufacturer’s recommendations.

5. High Humidity

If you live in a humid area, your fridge might be collecting more condensation than usual. When the drain pan fills up faster than it can evaporate, water spills onto the floor.

Fix: Empty the drain pan manually on humid days. If this happens often, using a dehumidifier in your kitchen can help.

6. Open Fridge Door

Leaving the fridge door open for too long forces the fridge to work harder, leading to excess condensation that eventually leaks onto the floor.

Fix: Make sure the door closes properly. Clean the door seals with soapy water, then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep them flexible and airtight.

Professional Fridge Repairs in Toronto

Need professional help?

If you’ve tried these fixes and your fridge is still leaking, it might be time to bring in the pros. At Appliance Repair Plus, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing all kinds of fridge issues- quickly and affordably. Call us today for quick fridge repairs throughout Toronto and the GTA!

Get repair quote now
fridge repair services Toronto