Having a washing machine in your home is the ultimate 21st-century convenience - but what happens when it starts leaking from the bottom? While a washing machine leak can be a cause for concern, it doesn’t always mean that your machine is a write-off! There are a number of simple solutions that can fix the problem, whether conducted yourself or a professional plumber - but what causes a leak in the first place? Let’s take a look at some common causes, and what we’d recommend to fix them.
Before getting started, it’s important to switch off your washing machine as soon as you notice a leak - you don’t want it to damage any of the electrical cables or your floor, and you don’t want to end up getting an electric shock when trying to fix it; water and electricity don’t mix!
So, what causes a washing machine leak? Here are some typical culprits:
In some cases, a leaking washing machine is caused by the water pump, which is responsible for circulating and draining water. Over time, this pipe can wear out or crack, which can lead to leaks at the bottom of the machine.
Over time, the hoses connected to the washer can become loose or suffer wear and tear, resulting in leaks. The hoses are responsible for moving wastewater out of the machine, but can become brittle or rust over time.
The tub seal on a washing machine (usually found between the outer tub and the transmission or spin basket) is actually designed to prevent water leaking, but this seal can deteriorate with extended use, which can in turn cause water to start leaking from the bottom of your washing machine.
In some cases - though more rare - blockages in the drainage system can force water to leak out from the lowest point of the machine, which is often observed as a bottom leak.
It’s important not to forget how your own washing habits can also cause potential leaks: overloading the washer can also cause water to push through the tub seal or the door, leading to leaks from various points, including the bottom of the machine.
Finally, professional installation is absolutely key when it comes to any water-based appliance in your home: if the washing machine isn’t level or properly installed, it can cause uneven water distribution and subsequent leaking, which isn’t just inconvenient but incredibly dangerous.
So, if you discover that your washing machine is leaking from the bottom, quick action can prevent further damage. Here’s what you can do:
Inspect all hoses connected to the washing machine for any signs of looseness or damage, and tighten them if necessary. You might want to watch some online tutorials so you’re sure you’re accessing and tightening the right hoses.
Next, you can start to look for any cracks or damage on the water pump. If yours is corroded or damaged, sometimes all you need to do is replace it, and this will usually be able to stop the leak (so long as there aren’t any other damaged hoses contributing to the leak).
A leaking tub seal will usually require a replacement, and this might require disassembling part of the machine. If you’re a DIY novice, it’s a good idea to get a professional plumber in to help you with this.
If you’ve inspected your machine and there isn’t any damage to hoses or the water pump, you might want to reconsider how you load your washing machine in the future: don’t cram your machine tight just to get one wash done; it’s much safer and cost-effective in the long run to just do two washes when necessary. And as always, make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for load sizes.
Finally, a washing machine that isn’t level can lead to uneven water distribution and leaks, so if you’ve tried all of the above and nothing works, you can try to use a level to adjust the machine properly.
So, when do you bring the experts in? If you’ve tried these common solutions and the problem persists, it’s always a good idea to consult a plumbing professional, like us at FS Drainage. We’ll be able to diagnose and fix complex issues that might not be easily identifiable to the untrained eye - and in most cases, we’ll get the job done in the same afternoon!
And even when it comes to the most seasoned DIY expert, if you’re not familiar with the intricacies of a washing machine, it can still be a good idea to bring a plumber in for technical support. Not only will they be able to fix the issue promptly, but they’ll also be able to show you how to prevent the same problem occurring repeatedly. Win-win!
