Arriving home from work, you are thinking about what you are making for dinner. As you enter your home, you notice in your kitchen that your dishwasher leaving puddles of water on your kitchen floor. Not only is this a frustrating and messy problem, but it can also be indicative of an underlying issue with your appliance. Are you stuck asking yourself, why is my dishwasher leaking? It could be a clogged filter, an unleveled dishwasher, or a damaged latch or gasket to name a few.
Let’s take a look.
1. Leaking from the Water Line
One possible reason for your dishwasher leaking could be a problem with the water line. Check if there are any visible cracks or loose connections in the supply line leading to your dishwasher. If you notice any issues, tighten the connections or replace the line if necessary. Sometimes, a faulty water inlet valve can also cause leakage. In such cases, it’s best to contact a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
2. Clogged Filter
Another common culprit of dishwasher leaks is a clogged filter. The filter is responsible for trapping food particles, preventing them from entering the drain pump, and causing blockages. Over time, the filter can become clogged, resulting in inefficient drainage and potential leakage. To resolve this issue, locate the filter, usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, and remove any debris or buildup. Clean the filter thoroughly and ensure it is securely placed back in its position.
3. Filter is Clean but it is Still Clogged
If you have cleaned the filter and are still experiencing clogging issues, the problem may lie in the drain hose. The drain hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to the sink drain and can sometimes get clogged with debris or food particles. Disconnect the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the sink drain and check for any obstructions. Use a brush or a pipe cleaner to remove any blockages and reconnect the hose securely.
4. Is the Dishwasher Unleveled?
An unlevel dishwasher can also be a cause of leaks. When the appliance is not properly aligned, water may pool in certain areas and seep out. To check if your dishwasher is level, use a spirit level placed on the top edge of the door or inside the dishwasher itself. Adjust the leveling feet underneath the dishwasher until it is perfectly balanced. This simple adjustment can often resolve leakage problems caused by an unleveled dishwasher.
5. Is There a Damaged Latch or Gasket?
The latch and gasket play crucial roles in ensuring a watertight seal when your dishwasher is in operation. If either of these components is damaged or worn out, water can escape through gaps or cracks, leading to leaks. Inspect the latch for any signs of damage or misalignment and replace it if necessary. Similarly, check the gasket, which is usually located around the door, and replace it if it shows signs of wear and tear.
6. Is The Float Switch Damaged?
The float switch is responsible for monitoring the water level inside your dishwasher. If this switch becomes faulty or gets stuck, it can prevent the correct amount of water from entering or exiting the appliance, resulting in leaks. Inspect the float switch for any visible damage or obstruction and clean it, if needed. If the issue persists, consider consulting a professional technician to replace the float switch.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about the reasons why your dishwasher may be leaking, let’s take a look at other areas of recommended maintenance.
One of those is dishwashers heating the water. Dishwashers do heat the water. They have sensors built in and let it know when the water level has reached its capacity. Then, the heating elements heat the water.
Another is if you get a new dishwasher, who installs it? It can be installed by a master plumber or a licensed electrician. It depends on who you hire to install it.
Lastly, if you have a Frigidaire dishwasher, there are some steps you want to follow to clean it. These are cleaning the interior, checking for draining, cleaning the glass trap, running the dishwasher empty, pouring in a cup of vinegar, and using the sanitize cycle.
When Do I Call a Professional?
While some dishwasher leaks can be resolved with basic troubleshooting and maintenance, there are situations where calling a professional is the best course of action. It is advisable to seek professional help if:
- You are unable to identify the source of the leak
- The problem persists despite attempting the suggested solutions
- There is significant damage to your dishwasher or surrounding cabinets
Professional appliance technicians have the expertise and specialized tools to accurately diagnose and repair complex issues. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and the longevity of your appliance by consulting a professional when needed.
Conclusion
Dishwasher leaks can stem from various sources, such as problems with the water line, clogged filters or drain hoses, an unleveled dishwasher, damaged latches or gaskets, and faulty float switches. If the issue persists or if you are unsure about the underlying problem, it’s always best to seek professional assistance.
Remember, early detection and timely repairs can help prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your dishwasher. This is a great time to reach out to ACE Preferred Inspections for a full home inspection in the low country of South Carolina.
