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Washer Leaking Water? Find the Leak and Fix It
Find when the leak happens. A leak while filling points to the fill hoses or inlet valve. A leak during the wash points to the door boot or tub. A leak during draining points to the drain hose, pump or standpipe.
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
- Loose, cracked or bulging fill hoses
- Torn or dirty door boot seal on a front-loader
- Loose drain hose or clogged standpipe overflowing
- Too much detergent, or regular detergent in an HE washer, causing suds to overflow
- Cracked drain pump or pump filter not tightened
- Leaking water inlet valve
Safe owner checks
- Turn off the water valves behind the washer if the floor is wet and you cannot find the source.
- Check the fill hoses at both ends and replace cracked or bulging rubber hoses.
- On a front-loader, check the door boot for tears and gunk, and wipe it out.
- Make sure the pump filter cap is tight after cleaning.
- Use HE detergent in HE washers, and only the recommended amount.
- Run a short cycle with an empty drum and watch where water appears.
When to call a pro
- Water comes from under the washer, not the hoses
- The door boot is torn
- The tub or pump is cracked
- Water has reached flooring, a ceiling below, or drywall
Repair or replace?
Hoses and door boots are usually worth replacing. A cracked outer tub on an older washer is a bigger job and often a reason to replace.
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.
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 washer guides
FAQ
Why is my washer leaking from the bottom?
Common causes are a loose drain hose, a pump or filter leak, a torn door boot, or a leaking inlet valve.
How often should washer hoses be replaced?
Check them a few times a year and replace any that are cracked, bulging or leaking. Follow your washer manual for the hose type it calls for.
Can too much soap make a washer leak?
Yes. Extra suds can push water out of the door or overflow the tub, especially in front-loaders.
Last checked: . Written by Local Help Stations.