Inlet hoses
Worn or loose hoses at the back of the washer leak while it fills, sometimes only a little at a time.
Appliance problem guide
Washer Leaking
Where the water appears, and when in the cycle, points to the source: hoses, the drain, the door seal or the tub.
Short answer
Turn off the water valves and look at the inlet hoses, the drain hose connection and, on front-load washers, the door gasket. Too much detergent can also cause suds to overflow. If the leak comes from under the machine during the cycle, a pump, tub seal or internal hose may need a technician.
For homeowners with a broken washer, dryer, oven, stove, cooktop or freezer. Not for refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, commercial appliances, parts orders or phone-only quotes.
What is usually behind it
Likely causes
Note whether the leak happens while filling, washing or draining. That timing helps a technician find the source quickly.
Door gasket
On front-load models, a torn gasket or trapped debris lets water out at the front.
Drain hose or pump
Leaks during draining often come from the drain hose connection or a cracked pump housing.
Too many suds
Using regular detergent in a high-efficiency washer, or too much of it, can push foam out of the machine.
Safe first checks
What you can safely check first
- Turn off both water valves behind the washer
- Feel along the inlet hoses and connections for drips
- Wipe and inspect the front door gasket for tears or debris
- Check that the drain hose is secure in the standpipe
- Make sure you are using the right type and amount of detergent
- Check that the washer is level
Safety: gas and electrical work
Unplug the washer before mopping up or moving it, and keep water away from outlets and power strips. Do not run the washer while it is actively leaking.
When to call
When to call a technician
Call if the leak comes from under the machine, appears during draining, or continues after hoses and the gasket are checked. A small leak can damage flooring over time, so it is worth fixing early.
Related services
Services that cover this problem
Start with washer repair, part of washer and dryer repair.
Washer Repair
Washing machines that will not drain, spin, fill or stop leaking.
Washer and Dryer Repair
Washers that will not drain or spin, and dryers that will not heat or start.
Markets and areas
Calling from your market
- Washer and Dryer in Birmingham, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Tuscaloosa, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Huntsville, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Mobile, AL
Markets
Regional areas
Many manufacturers suggest inspecting rubber inlet hoses regularly and replacing them every few years or at the first sign of bulging, cracking or rust at the fittings. Braided hoses are a common upgrade.
A torn gasket, a sock trapped in the seal, or too much detergent are common causes. Clean the gasket and check for tears. A damaged gasket can be replaced.
Yes. That pattern often points to the drain hose, the standpipe or the drain pump. Watch the back and bottom of the machine during the drain step to see where water appears.
Next step
Still not working after the safe checks?
Call to describe what the appliance is doing and get connected with an independent local provider.