My washing machine is leaking, what should I do?

A leaking washing machine is a hassle you want to deal with quickly. Laundry piles up fast and the sooner you solve the problem, the better. The first step is finding out where the water is coming from. Once you know that, you can decide whether it’s an easy fix or something for a technician.

Here are the most common causes and what you can do about them.

Water leaks from the door

If water drips from the door after a wash, the door seal, also called the gasket, is often the cause. It keeps water inside the drum during the cycle. Over time, the rubber can crack or become stiff. Detergent residue or dirt can also stop the door from sealing properly.

Check the seal for lint or debris and wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Make sure the rubber still feels soft and flexible. If you see cracks or holes, it will need to be replaced. This is best handled by a technician.

Water leaks from underneath the washing machine

If you see water pooling under the machine, the problem may be with the drain hose or pump. The hose might have come loose or isn’t fitted properly. Check that it’s secure and free of splits or cracks. If it’s kinked or blocked, straighten it so water can flow freely and replace it if it’s damaged.

Another common cause is a blocked filter. If water can’t drain, it may escape through joints or seams. Clean the filter according to your manual and make sure the drain is clear.

If the leak continues, the pump or an internal pipe may be damaged. In that case, get a technician to inspect the machine to prevent further damage.

Standpipe overflows

If water comes out of the standpipe while the machine is draining, the hose may be inserted too far. Pause the wash cycle, grab a bucket and some towels and place the towels on the floor. Put the bucket under the standpipe and direct the hose into it so the water drains into the bucket. Once drained, put the hose back into the standpipe, making sure it goes no deeper than 15 cm (about 6 inches).

If the standpipe still overflows, it could be clogged, often by detergent build-up. Try clearing it by pouring in a mixture of boiling water and baking soda. Wait 15 minutes, then flush with water to check if it flows freely. If it’s still blocked, use a drain snake to gently remove the clog. If that doesn’t work, call a professional.

Other possible causes of a leak

Not all leaks are caused by broken parts. Sometimes it’s down to how you use the machine:

• Too much detergent: Excess suds can find their way out through small openings. Always follow the recommended dosage on the detergent packaging.
• Overloading the drum: Overfilling puts extra strain on seals and hoses. As a guide, you should be able to fit your fist between the laundry and the top of the drum.
• Wear and tear: Hoses and clamps lose strength over time. Check them regularly and replace them every three to five years.

Should you repair or replace your washing machine?

If you need a technician to fix the leak, think about whether repairing is still the best option. If your machine has had several problems recently or the repair cost is close to the price of a new one, replacement is often the smarter choice. Especially if your washing machine is at the end of its lifespan.

Say goodbye to repair costs with a Homie washing machine

If you decide it’s time for a new machine, renting from Homie is the smart way to avoid unexpected repair costs in the future. You pay a fixed monthly fee and don’t have to spend hundreds upfront. Repairs and maintenance are always included, so if something breaks, we’ll fix it at no extra cost.This means you can use your new washing machine with complete peace of mind.

Browse Homie’s washing machines and choose the model that suits you best.