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Why Is My Fridge Leaking?

Why Is My Fridge Leaking?

Puddle under your refrigerator? Here are the most common causes, quick checks you can do, and when to call a certified technician.

Technician inspecting a refrigerator for leaks
A quick inspection can prevent water damage to floors and cabinets.

A leaking fridge is usually fixable and often starts with a simple issue like a blocked defrost drain or a loose water line. Use this guide to pinpoint what’s going on. If the leak continues after these checks, book a professional diagnosis so water doesn’t damage your kitchen.

Top Reasons Your Fridge Is Leaking

1) Blocked Defrost Drain

Frost melt flows to a drain hole and into a pan. If food debris or ice blocks the drain, water backs up and leaks inside or onto the floor.

Location of defrost drain hole inside a refrigerator

Quick check (2–5 minutes)

  1. Turn off the fridge or unplug it.
  2. Locate the drain hole (often at the back under the crisper drawers).
  3. Flush with warm water using a turkey baster or squeeze bottle.
  4. If iced, let it thaw or book a technician to clear it safely.

2) Cracked or Overflowing Drain Pan

The pan under your fridge collects defrost water. If it’s cracked, misaligned, or overfilled, it can drip onto the floor.

Technician inspecting a refrigerator drain pan
  • Slide out the pan and inspect for cracks.
  • Re-seat it flat so water evaporates correctly.
  • Replace damaged pans to stop recurring leaks.

3) Water Line Issues (Ice Maker / Dispenser)

Loose fittings, kinks, or a brittle line can leak behind or beneath the fridge.

Refrigerator water supply line and shut-off valve
  • Check for moisture around the line and connections.
  • Straighten kinks; tighten compression nuts gently.
  • Replace cracked tubing and worn fittings.

4) Worn Door Gaskets

Air leaks let warm, humid air inside, creating excess condensation that can pool and drip.

Close-up of refrigerator door gasket being cleaned
  • Clean seals with warm soapy water and dry them.
  • Look for tears or flattened areas; replace as needed.

5) Fridge Not Level

If the unit tilts forward, defrost water may miss the drain and spill.

Adjusting the leveling feet of a refrigerator
  • Level side-to-side and tilt slightly back.
  • Adjust front leveling feet; recheck doors self-close.

When to Call a Professional

  • Water keeps reappearing after you clear the drain and level the fridge.
  • You see water behind the unit or along the wall (possible line/fitting issue).
  • There’s an error code, buzzing, or cooling problems alongside the leak.
  • You’re concerned about floor or cabinet damage.

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