6 Common Causes of Dishwasher Leaks and How to Fix Them

1. Worn-Out Door Gasket

The gasket is a rubber seal that lines the door of your dishwasher, keeping water inside during the wash cycle. Over time, this gasket can crack or wear out, allowing water to escape.

Fix: Inspect the door gasket for signs of wear and tear. If it appears brittle or damaged, replace it. This is usually an easy fix that can stop your dishwasher from leaking.

2. Clogged or Faulty Drain Hose

The drain hose carries wastewater from your dishwasher to the plumbing. If the hose is clogged, kinked, or damaged, it can cause water to back up and leak from the dishwasher.

Fix: Check the drain hose for clogs or cracks. Clean out any blockages and replace the hose if it’s damaged. Also, ensure that the hose is not kinked or twisted, which could restrict water flow.

3. Defective Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve controls the amount of water entering the dishwasher. If this valve is defective, it may allow too much water into the dishwasher, causing it to overflow and leak.

Fix: Inspect the water inlet valve for leaks or damage. If it’s not working properly, you will need to replace the valve to prevent further water leaks.

4. Improperly Loaded Dishes

Overloading your dishwasher or placing dishes in a way that blocks the spray arms can cause water to splash against the door, leading to leaks.

Fix: Ensure that your dishes are loaded properly and that nothing is blocking the spray arms. Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as this can prevent the door from sealing correctly.

5. Cracked Dishwasher Tub

A cracked tub can lead to water leaking from the bottom of your dishwasher. This is usually caused by wear and tear over time, especially in older models.

Fix: Inspect the bottom of your dishwasher tub for visible cracks. Small cracks can sometimes be repaired with a sealant, but larger cracks may require you to replace the tub or the entire dishwasher.

6. Loose or Damaged Float Switch

The float switch helps regulate the water level inside the dishwasher. If the float switch is stuck, loose, or damaged, it may cause your dishwasher to overfill and leak.

Fix: Check the float switch to ensure it’s moving freely and isn’t obstructed. If it’s stuck or damaged, clean or replace the float switch to restore proper function.

At Major at Appliance Repair, we understand how frustrating a leaking dishwasher can be, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing the issue. If you’re unable to resolve the problem or need professional assistance, contact us today! We’re here to provide fast, reliable, and affordable appliance repair services.

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