If you’re seeing water under or around your refrigerator, it’s not something to ignore. A leaking fridge could be caused by something simple—or something serious that leads to water damage, mold, or even food spoilage. In this guide, you’ll find out why your refrigerator is leaking, how to troubleshoot it safely, and when it’s time to call a professional for help.
Is It Normal for a Refrigerator to Leak Water?
Occasional moisture is normal, especially during defrost cycles. But visible water on the floor or inside drawers is a sign something’s wrong. Modern refrigerators use a system of drains and pans to manage condensation. If that system fails, water builds up fast. You might see puddles near the base, inside crisper drawers, or behind the fridge.
Common Causes of Refrigerator Water Leaks
Clogged or Frozen Defrost Drain
This is one of the most common causes. The defrost drain carries water from the evaporator coils to a pan underneath. When it’s clogged by food, debris, or ice, the water backs up and leaks inside.
Cracked or Overflowing Drain Pan
Your drain pan collects defrost water. Over time, it may crack or become misaligned. If it overflows or doesn’t evaporate properly, water leaks out and pools beneath the unit.
Leaky Water Supply Line
If your fridge has an ice maker or water dispenser, it’s connected to a water supply line. Cracks, pinholes, or loose connections can lead to a slow but steady leak.
👉 Schedule ice maker repair services if this is the issue.
Blocked or Faulty Water Filter
If the water filter is misaligned, expired, or damaged, it can leak around the housing. Whirlpool, Samsung, and LG models are known to experience this.
👉 See our Samsung refrigerator repair guide for more help.
Door Not Sealing Properly
A broken or worn-out door gasket allows warm air to enter, creating excess condensation. This often results in small pools of water inside or around the fridge.
How to Diagnose a Refrigerator Leak at Home
Before calling a technician, you can check a few things:
- Unplug the fridge.
- Check the drain pan underneath for cracks or overflow.
- Flush the defrost drain with warm water.
- Inspect the water supply line at the back of the fridge.
- Ensure the water filter is installed correctly.
- Look at the door seal. Make sure it’s clean, flexible, and forms a tight seal.
Use towels and a flashlight to help spot hidden moisture.
Can You Fix a Leaking Refrigerator Yourself?
You can fix minor issues like:
- Flushing a clogged defrost drain
- Realigning or replacing the water filter
- Cleaning or repositioning the drain pan
But you should leave more serious repairs—like water line replacement or valve failures—to licensed professionals. DIY mistakes can cause further damage.
Potential Damage If You Ignore a Leak
- Mold and mildew behind or underneath the fridge
- Water-damaged flooring or cabinetry
- Short circuits or compressor damage
- Spoiled food if internal temperature rises
Quick action is important. What starts as a small leak can turn into a major problem.
Professional Help: What a Technician Will Check
At Appliance Repair Southern California, our technicians inspect:
- The water line and valve
- Ice maker connections
- Filter housing and seals
- Drain tube and pan
- Compressor area for electrical or heat-related damage
- Freezer compartments for defrost problems
👉 We also handle freezer not defrosting issues and commercial refrigeration repair for business units.
How to Prevent Future Refrigerator Leaks
- Replace your water filter every 6 months
- Flush the defrost drain periodically
- Keep your fridge level so water drains correctly
- Don’t block airflow with overpacked shelves
- Clean the door gasket and check for wear
Conclusion
A leaking refrigerator can signal anything from a clogged drain to a cracked water line. Some issues you can handle yourself—but others require fast professional attention. If you’re dealing with water pooling around your fridge, don’t wait.
👉 Book an appliance repair technician today with Appliance Repair Southern California and let our experts fix it right the first time.
Safety Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Performing appliance repairs without proper tools or experience can lead to damage or injury. Always consult a licensed technician, especially when dealing with water lines or electrical components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why is there water under my fridge every few days?
It usually means your defrost drain is clogged or the drain pan is overflowing.
Q2: How do I unclog the defrost drain on my fridge?
Use a turkey baster or pipette to flush it with warm water after unplugging the fridge.
Q3: Can a leaking fridge cause mold?
Yes. Moisture behind or beneath your appliance can lead to mold growth in hidden areas.
Q4: Is it safe to keep using a leaking refrigerator?
No. Water near electrical parts can be dangerous and cause further damage.
Q5: How much does it cost to fix a leaking refrigerator?
Basic fixes range from $75–$150. Water line or valve replacement may run $200–$300+.
Q6: Who should I call for fast service in Southern California?
Call Appliance Repair Southern California or book a technician online.
Eric
Eric is the founder and lead repair expert at Appliance Repair Southern California. With 17+ years of experience, he has built a reputation for providing fast, reliable, and high-quality repair services across Southern California. His expertise covers a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines. Eric is committed to exceptional customer service and ensuring every repair is done right the first time. Under his leadership, Appliance Repair Southern California continues to be a trusted name in the industry.
