Have you ever experienced stepping on puddles of water near your fridge when trying to get some snacks at midnight? Then you found out the source is from your leaking refrigerator. This can cause panic for most homeowners since a refrigerator leaking water can cause major damage if not taken care of immediately. Furthermore, you can prevent other issues like possible floor damage, a slipping hazard, or even an electric shock.

Refrigerator Water Damage

A malfunctioning refrigerator can produce small, slow, and progressing drips that can lead to severe water damage. If not caught and appropriately restored, these refrigerator leaks can cause mold growth within 48 hours. Fortunately, hiring a maintenance specialist is not always necessary when it comes to solving the problem of water damage from a leaking refrigerator.

Causes of a Leaking Refrigerator

Water runs differently and can start leaking if something is wrong with any appliance you might have in your kitchen. Be it your fridge’s ice maker or water dispenser; water can still pool from the bottom or inside the refrigerator. Here are some possibilities why you might notice a water leak.

Leaking Water from the Bottom of the Refrigerator

• If you see water pooling from the rear or beneath the front of your refrigerator, check the drain pan. Typically, this is where liquid collects during the defrost cycle and then evaporates. However, if the drain pan is damaged, leaks can occur and form puddles. In case you notice a crack or a split in your drain pan, replacement may be necessary.
• Check another common cause of refrigerator leaks; the defrost drain. Ice or food particles can stick in the drain opening and can clog the defrost drain line. During the defrost cycle, water does not drain to the pan anymore. And this will eventually lead to water leaking out onto your floor.
• One modern feature of most refrigerators nowadays has a built-in ice maker. Ice makers are connected to supply lines and cause leaks when the connector or seal breaks or gets worn in time. Replace the lines and tighten the connections if necessary.
• The water filter could cause leaks because of the air trapped in the water dispenser. When replacing the water filter, the size or model should match your fridge. Incorrect size or model will cause water to drip and overflow in the drip tray.

Leaking Water Inside the Refrigerator

• Condensation Leaks

This usually forms inside the compartment of the refrigerator and should drip through a drain tube going into the drip pan. However, possible leakage may occur for the following reasons:

1. If the defrost drain hole is clogged with ice or other debris
2. The refrigerator is not properly balanced or not level and will cause condensation leaks to not flow into the drain hole
3. If the door gasket or door seal is damaged and allows air to escape or enter from your fridge

Steps to Prevent Water Damage From a Leaking Refrigerator

Reduce the risk of water damage and check your refrigerator if functioning properly: 

• Know the location of the water shut-off valve. This can help you turn the water supply off easily once the leak is detected. 
• When a defrost drain is blocked or clogged, use warm water to flush the drain. You can also use a pipe cleaner to clear the clog.
• Check and examine the ice maker’s line and connectors for damage.
• If the refrigerator is not at the proper level, place the front of the refrigerator ¼ inch lower than the back. This can make the coolant flow freely and easily. Thus, preventing condensation leaks.
• The water supply lines are easy to break since they are made from thin, plastic tubing and are prone to kinks. Check the lines for kinks.
• Prevent the hose from crimping. Give a space of 3 to 4 inches between the back of your fridge and the wall.
• Check the door gasket or seal on the doors to ensure that they are in good condition. This prevents warm air from entering.

Contact Superior Restoration Today!

A small amount of water flowing from your fridge can seep into your wall and floor and can go unnoticed. Moreover, moisture leaks can shorten the life of a refrigerator since it interferes with fan operation and causes the parts to rust. To prevent further damage, please call Water Damage Corona. We are available 24/7 to handle all aspects of water damage restoration.