The Short Answer
Leaks come from one of two places: a water line that supplies the appliance or a drain that removes water. In refrigeration, a clogged defrost drain is the classic culprit, sending meltwater into the cabinet instead of the pan. In dishwashers, a worn gasket or a cracked seal lets wash water escape onto the floor. Finding the exact source is what prevents a repeat leak.
Common Sources in Order
- Clogged defrost drain: water pools inside the fridge and freezer floor and may freeze into a sheet.
- Split or loose water line: the supply to an ice maker or water dispenser drips behind the unit.
- Worn door gasket: on a dishwasher, a hardened gasket lets water past the door.
- Cracked sump or seal: a dishwasher's sump gasket or a cracked housing leaks from underneath.
- Loose hose connections: drain and fill hoses that have worked loose over time.
Notes by Brand
- Sub-Zero: a leak inside a built-in is most often a defrost drain clog; the water line to the ice maker is the next thing we check.
- Cove: dishwasher leaks typically start at the door gasket or the sump seal, both OEM replacements.
- Miele and Bosch: these dishwashers may trip a leak-detection system and stop mid-cycle, which helps confirm the leak before it spreads.
- Thermador and Viking: refrigerator leaks tend to be drain or water-line related rather than the sealed system.
| Where the Water Is | Likely Source | What We Do |
|---|---|---|
| Inside fridge floor | Clogged defrost drain | Clear and flush the drain line |
| Behind the refrigerator | Split or loose water line | Replace or reconnect the line |
| In front of dishwasher | Door gasket | Replace door gasket |
| Under the dishwasher | Sump seal or hose | Replace seal or tighten hose |
Stop the Water First
Shut off the supply valve to the appliance to stop an active leak, then mop up standing water to protect flooring and cabinetry. Standing water near cabinetry and stone should not wait. Once contained, book a diagnosis.
Found a Leak?
Book a diagnostic visit. Diagnostic and travel fees, if applicable, are confirmed before the appointment and before repair approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Water Pooling Inside My Refrigerator?
Water on the floor of a fridge cabinet is usually a clogged defrost drain. Meltwater from the defrost cycle cannot reach the drain pan, so it backs up and overflows inside. Clearing and flushing the drain line resolves it.
Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking Onto the Floor?
Dishwasher leaks most often come from a worn door gasket, a cracked sump or its seal, or a loose hose connection. We locate the exact source and replace the failed seal or component.
Should I Turn Off the Water to a Leaking Appliance?
Yes. Shutting off the supply valve to the appliance stops an active leak and protects your flooring and cabinetry while you arrange a repair. Mop up standing water and book a diagnosis.