Guides › Appliances › Troubleshooting › Fridge Leaking Water
Fridge Leaking Water? Common Causes and Fixes
A leaking fridge most often has a clogged defrost drain, a leaking water supply line to the ice maker or dispenser, or a cracked drain pan. Find where the water shows up first: inside the fridge, under the crisper drawers, or on the floor behind it.
Safety first: unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before touching anything inside, and shut off the water or gas supply where it applies. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside.
Likely causes
- Clogged or frozen defrost drain (water pools under the crisper drawers or freezes on the freezer floor)
- Leaking or loose water supply line or valve behind the fridge
- Clogged or poorly seated water filter or filter housing
- Cracked or misplaced drain pan under the fridge
- Fridge not level, so defrost water runs the wrong way
- Worn door gasket letting in humid air that turns to extra frost and water
Safe owner checks
- Shut off the water supply valve to the fridge if the water seems to come from the line.
- Pull the fridge out carefully and check the supply line and fittings for drips.
- Reseat the water filter, or replace it if it is overdue. Check for cracks in the filter housing.
- Look for ice or standing water under the crisper drawers. Flushing the defrost drain with warm water (a turkey baster works) can clear it.
- Check that the fridge leans slightly back so the doors close on their own.
- Wipe the door gaskets and check that a dollar bill held in the closed door has some grip.
When to call a pro
- Water keeps coming back after you clear the drain
- The leak is coming from the valve, the filter housing or inside the door
- Water has reached flooring or cabinets and you want it stopped fast
- You are not comfortable moving a heavy fridge
Repair or replace?
Most leaks are small fixes like a drain, a line or a filter housing, so repair usually makes sense even on an older fridge.
Repair cost
Call for a quote. Costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop. Ask for any diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis.
Sources
- GE Appliances: Refrigerator water on floor (checked November 1, 2026)
- GE Appliances: Clearing a clogged defrost drain (checked November 1, 2026)
- GE Appliances Factory Service: Why is my refrigerator leaking? (checked November 1, 2026)
Local facts
Where to take an old appliance, rebates, licensing rules and local shops differ by state and city. Each Local Help Stations state site keeps those facts on its own pages, with official sources.
Other refrigerator guides
FAQ
Why is there water under my fridge?
Common causes are a clogged defrost drain, a leaking supply line or valve, a cracked drain pan, or a filter housing leak.
Can a clogged defrost drain be fixed at home?
Often yes. Unplug the fridge, find the drain hole in the freezer or fridge, and flush it with warm water. If it refreezes, a defrost heater or drain heater may have failed.
Should I turn off the water?
If the leak looks like it comes from the water line, filter or ice maker, shut off the fridge water supply valve until it is fixed.
Last checked: . Written by Local Help Stations.