How to Stop a Dishwasher From Leaking | Just-In Time Appliance (2024)

• Justin Duby
• July 1, 2023
• Dishwasher

Are you dealing with a dishwasher leak in your home? Don’t let the constant dripping get you down, you’ll want to get it taken care of fast to make sure there isn’t damage done to the surrounding floor and cabinets! We’ve put together a guide on how to stop a dishwasher from leaking, to make sure you are able to quickly and easily diagnose your leak and get it fixed.

The Complete Guide on How to Stop a Dishwasher From Leaking

Before you dive in, keep a couple of absorbent towels or a sponge at arm’s length to mop up any unexpected spills, because hey, nobody wants a slip-and-slide in the kitchen!

Blocked Dishwasher Filter

What causes a dishwasher to leak from the bottom? One of the less obvious but common causes for a dishwasher leaking from the bottom is a blocked filter. Over time, the dishwasher filter can accumulate food particles, debris, and other residues, causing a blockage.

During the cleaning process, the dishwasher’s water has to flow through the filter. When the filter is blocked, the water can’t flow freely and can start to back up, potentially causing the dishwasher not to drain, and to overflow and leak. Regular usage without cleaning the filter is the main cause of this issue.

What to Do:

1. Locate the filter in your dishwasher. Most filters are located on the floor of the dishwasher, typically under the bottom rack. Refer to your user’s manual if you’re having trouble finding it.
2. Once you’ve found the filter, you will need to remove it. This usually involves unscrewing it or twisting it off.
3. Clean the filter under running water, using a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) to remove any debris.
4. Once cleaned, reinsert the filter back into the dishwasher, ensuring it is securely in place.

Leaky Water Supply Line

Hidden beneath your dishwasher, the water supply line may play a role in your appliance’s leakage if it has sustained any damage. Moreover, if you’re finding your dishwasher dry as a bone, refusing to fill with water, the water supply line might just be your offender.

What to Do:

1. First off, find the water line connection, usually located at the front left corner of your dishwasher.
2. Inspect the surrounding floor area and near the water connection – if it’s wet, you’re on the right track.
3. Does the hose feel slack? Time to roll up your sleeves and tighten it up. A pair of pliers might come in handy for an extra 1/4 to 1/2 turn to ensure that the rubber gasket is sealed up tighter than a drum.
4. Is there any damage to the hose? If so you may need to replace it.

Leaky Drain Line

A mishandled drain line installation could be the issue behind water pooling up in your dishwasher tub, resulting in a bothersome leakage. This drain line of yours is typically nestled under your sink.

What to Do:

1. Double-check that the drain line installation and its position are in line with the guidelines detailed in your appliance’s instruction manual.
2. Find the hose clamp out of position? Don’t fret – simply adjust it until it’s snug in the right spot.
3. If all seems well with the installation, yet the problem persists, it might be a stubborn clog. Don’t bite off more than you can chew – professional help may be needed in this case.

Unlevel Dishwasher

A dishwasher that’s leaning more than the Tower of Pisa can lead to water splashing over the edge of the tub, creating a messy leakage from beneath the door.

What to Do:

1. Whip out a level to check if your dishwasher isn’t throwing its weight around.
2. If it’s leaning, fiddle with the leveling legs, nudging them up or down, until the unit sits squarely in its cabinet and is evenly resting on the rear wheels.

Damaged Door Gasket

A worn-out door gasket can cause the dishwasher to spring a leak from the front door. This gasket runs along the rim of the door, creating a seal tighter than a duck’s feather when the door is shut.

What to Do:

1. Pull open your dishwasher door and give the gasket the once-over, keeping an eye out for any cracks, holes, or debris.
2. If the gasket is grubby, give it a good wipe-down with a damp cloth. After cleaning the gasket, we’d recommend cleaning the dishwasher fully while you’re at it!
3. If the gasket is damaged, replace it.

Incorrect Detergent Usage

Using the wrong kind of detergent, or simply using too much of it, can make your dishwasher overflow on you and leak. A bubble bath of suds, courtesy of excessive detergent or the wrong type, can overflow during wash cycles.

What to Do:

1. Make sure to stick to detergents specifically designed for dishwashers and avoid dishwashing liquid or other cleaners.
2. Refer to your detergent package instructions for the correct amount to use.

We at Just-In Time Appliances understand the importance of having a fully functioning dishwasher. Our team is always ready to help you with these issues and more. We can provide professional cleaning, guide you on regular maintenance, and help extend the lifespan of your dishwasher. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need any help or advice.