A dishwasher leaking is the last thing any homeowner wants to deal with. However, with so many water sources in the kitchen, it can be challenging to pinpoint precisely what is responsible for signs of leaks.
So, if you have a sneaking suspicion that your dishwasher is leaking, this is the guide you’ll want to start with. This article will detail which things to check first to confirm whether or not your dishwasher is the issue.
Keep reading to learn everything you need about leaking dishwashers, including who to call when bringing in the professionals.
Signs your Dishwasher is Leaking
Before you start investigating the internal workings of your dishwasher, let’s discuss what types of signs you might see indicating you have a leak to address. The most obvious is water pooling on the floor around the dishwasher or directly underneath it. But you may be surprised by other sneaky symptoms pointing to a dishwasher leaking problem.
- Damp or wet cabinets: Check the surrounding cabinets or areas under the sink. Dampness or water stains can indicate a dishwasher leak.
- Mold or mildew: Mold or mildew near the dishwasher suggests moisture buildup, potentially from a leak.
- Musty odors: A persistent musty or moldy smell near the dishwasher could indicate water damage and potential mold growth.
- Rust: Rust spots on the dishwasher’s metal parts or the floor beneath it can indicate a slow leak over time.
- Staining: Look for water stains or discoloration on the floor, especially if it’s wood or laminate, as these can indicate a water leak.
- Water bill increase: An unexplained increase in your water bill may be due to a leak in your dishwasher.
- Excessive moisture: Condensation or excessive moisture around the dishwasher or on the countertops can indicate leakage.
- Dishwasher not filling or draining correctly: Issues with filling or draining may indicate internal leaks affecting the appliance’s performance.
- Loose or warped flooring: Water leaks can cause flooring to become loose or warped, particularly if it’s wood or laminate.
- Unusual Sounds: Gurgling, hissing, or other unusual sounds during operation can indicate water is escaping from the dishwasher.
- Dampness in Adjacent Rooms: Sometimes, water leaks can spread to adjacent rooms, causing dampness in carpets or walls.
Does any of these sound familiar? Then, let’s proceed to the next step: all the parts you should check first. Of course, keep in mind that a leaking appliance can cause serious damage over time. So, prioritize calling in a professional if you suspect permanent damage to your home.
The Ultimate Dishwasher Leaking Checklist
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, it’s time to investigate further. To help, here are the first things you should check when suspecting a dishwasher leaking issue has arisen.
- Door Seal/Gasket: Inspect the rubber seal around the door. If it’s damaged, cracked, or has debris, it may not create a proper seal, causing leaks.
- Door Alignment: Ensure the dishwasher door closes properly and is not misaligned. A misaligned door can prevent the gasket from sealing correctly.
- Hoses and Connections: Check the inlet and drain hoses for any signs of wear, cracks, or loose connections. Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged hoses.
- Water Inlet Valve: Inspect the water inlet valve, which controls water flow into the dishwasher. A malfunctioning valve can cause leaks.
- Float Assembly: The float assembly helps regulate the dishwasher’s water level. Ensure it moves freely and is not stuck, as a faulty float can cause overfilling.
- Spray Arms: Check the spray arms for clogs or damage. If they are blocked or not rotating properly, water may not circulate correctly and can lead to leaks.
- Detergent Dispenser: Make sure the detergent dispenser is not clogged or damaged. Improper detergent use can cause excess suds, leading to leaks.
- Dishwasher Leveling: Ensure the dishwasher is level. An unlevel dishwasher can cause water to pool and leak out.
- Check the Bottom of the Dishwasher: Look for water pooling inside the dishwasher, which could indicate a problem with the sump, pump, or other internal components.
- Inspect the Drain Pump: The drain pump moves water out of the dishwasher. A damaged or clogged pump can cause leaks.
- Check for Blockages: Ensure the drain and filters are clear of debris. Blockages can cause water to back up and leak.
- Inspect the Dishwasher Tub: Check the dishwasher tub for any cracks or damage, which could cause leaks.
After checking these items, if you can’t find the source of the leak or if the issue persists, it may be best to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Common Dishwasher Leaking Repairs
As you can see, you may be able to repair or replace some of the parts you’ll be checking. Such as tightening screws or connections or replacing seals. But other repairs can be more complex.
Replacing parts like pumps or motors may be necessary when dealing with more significant leaks, typically requiring specialized knowledge and equipment. In this situation, it is best to contact a repair specialist or plumber who can promptly determine what needs to be fixed and replace any necessary parts without adding to the water damage.
They’re also more likely to be experienced in resolving residual leak-related issues, such as treating mold or replacing flooring or cupboards, as a result of the moisture building up. Of course, sometimes, it may be required to completely replace your dishwasher or perform more extensive repairs involving the piping that runs to the dishwasher itself.
How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher Leaking
If you’ve checked the above and can’t make any simple repairs yourself, it might be time to call the professionals. At WaterWork Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing plumbing issues like dishwashers leaking, repairing them promptly and effectively.
Our team has proudly served Fabulous Ferndale and the surrounding Metro Detroit area for nearly 20 years. From kitchens to bathrooms, sump pumps to sewage lines, we do it all! Contact us now for a repair appointment or to schedule routine maintenance.
But before you go, tap into more homeowner resources with plumbing tips, tricks, and more on our blog, and follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest.
