Leaking Washing Machine – Determine The Cause

Your leaking washing machine isn't a problem that will resolve itself, nor should it be ignored. Failure to act quickly and fix the leaks will result in mold issues, internal damage to the machine and even damage to the flooring under the machine. If your washing machine is leaking, it's time to find out why. Here's how to do just that.

There are 5 issues that commonly cause leaks in washing machines, including:

• Leaking/damaged drain hose
• Leaking connections
• Corroded or cracked outer tub
• Bad tub bearing or seal
• Failed/leaking water pump

Start by checking all of the hoses and connections. Do this by wrapping a dry piece of paper towel around the connection. Let it sit for a bit and check to see if the paper towels have gotten damp at all.  Run a quick wash cycle to be sure the leaking isn't occurring in those areas while the machine is being used.

If that didn't identify where the leak is coming from, do a visual inspection of the tub. Check for cracks and corrosion as well as inspect the bearing and seal.

Now, if you haven't found any issues that could be causing the leak, it's time to get your hands a little dirty and check the water pump. Refer to your owner's manual to find out where the water pump is located and how to get to it. Follow those instructions.

Note: If you don't have an owner's manual, you can usually find one online for any machine by typing in the make and model number of the washing machine in any search engine.

Once you have gotten to the water pump, it's time to figure out if the problem lies right there.

Check the connections – Locate the two hoses coming from the pump - there's one that carries water into the pump and one that carries it away. In some cases, your pump could have up to four hoses. Check the connections to be sure they fit tightly.

Now, get some masking tape and label each hose and the receivers for those hoses on the pump. You will be removing the hoses and need to be sure that you put them back on the pump correctly – the tape will help you do that. To remove the hoses and clamps that hold the hoses in place, you may need to use plyers to pinch the taps on the clamps to loosen them enough to remove the hoses.

Ok, so, there are two types of pumps used in these machines – a direct drive pump and a belt drive pump. Your owner's manual will tell you which you have. If you have a direct drive pump, remove the small clips that are keeping the cover plate in place. Remove the plate and the impeller inside. Inspect everything for damage or signs of wear.

Note: If the machine utilizes a belt drive pump, you may not be able to open it up. Just do what you can to inspect it from the outside looking for anything that could prevent water flow.

If you've gone through each of these steps and have not identified what could be causing your washing machine to leak, contact your local washing machine repair specialist for assistance.