Why Do Dishwashers Leak?

A leaky dishwasher can ruin your kitchen floor.

Dishwashers have many parts that can wear out, develop holes, disconnect, become clogged or stick, causing water to leak. Check certain procedures and parts to find the cause of your leak.

Procedures

Detergent that produces too many soapsuds cause most dishwasher leaks. Not loading dishes correctly causes leaking. Dishwashers can leak if they are not sitting level.

Part Failure

Seals and gaskets that harden over time can cause dishwashers to leak. Rubber or plastic hoses may need replacement, tightening or new clamps. Water-inlet valves that get stuck in an open position cause leaks. Leaks from the door usually come from holes in the wash arm, wash housing or a leaky soap dispenser.

Considerations

Food fragments and other tiny objects that get stuck in the pump can cause water to leak from dishwashers. Clearing the debris can solve the problem.

References

• Appliance-Repair-It: Dishwasher Leaking Repair Guide
• Repair Cllinic: Dishwasher Troubleshooting
• Don Vanderwoort's Home Tips: Dishwasher Leaks Water

Resources

• Virtual Repairman's Dishwasher Tips