Why Your Washing Machine Is Leaking from the Bottom and How to Prevent Water Damage

As a homeowner, you’re bound to deal with an appliance leak at some point. One of the more troublesome occurrences is realizing your washing machine is leaking from the bottom. Like other appliance leaks, it can be a minimal inconvenience if it’s dealt with quickly. But the longer your washing machine is leaking from the bottom, water damage and safety risks become more likely. 

You’re probably wondering “Why is my washer leaking from the bottom?” The experts at weDRY Restoration are here to help you understand why this happens and how you can prevent the possibility of ensuing water damage. 

What Are the Causes of Water Leaks in Washing Machines?

Washing machines house a variety of components, several of which can be the source of a leak. Here are the possible causes behind a washing machine leak: 

Faulty Gaskets

The gaskets of a washing machine protect the middle cover and external part of the appliance from water infiltration. As gaskets wear out, the opportunity for water infiltration becomes greater and leaks may start to form. 

Malfunctioning Hoses

Improper sizing or damage to the washing machine’s internal hoses can result in the appliance leaking water profusely during its wash cycle. 

Discharge Line

Washing machines can pump anywhere from 10 to 20 gallons of water per cycle. If an issue arises in the discharge line, that 10 to 20 gallons of water can end up leading to a substantial amount of water damage. 

Pulley Seal Water Leaks

Pulley seal water leaks in a washing machine are typically related to a pump or clamp component. A pulley seal water leak is likely going to result in water flowing out of the bottom of the unit. 

Defective Door Seal

A common culprit of leaking washing machines is a defective door seal. Proper sealing can be prevented by excessive amounts of clothes, dirt, or faulty components infringing on the door from closing and sealing. Especially in these instances, it’ll cause the washing machine to leak from the bottom.

Broken Pressure Switch

The pressure switch of your washing machine is responsible for monitoring the inside water levels. When the pressure switch ceases to function, the unit is unable to correctly measure water levels. This results in the washing machine leaking due to the continuous intake of water.

How To Check if Your Washing Machine is Leaking from the Bottom

Unsure if your washing machine is leaking from the bottom? Here are some recommendations to best determine if your washing machine is leaking on its underside:

• Visual inspection. Check under and around the washing machine for puddles or excess moisture. 

• Mid-cycle check. Run a quick cycle of the washing machine and pay attention if any leaking occurs. 

• Hose examination. Inspect the washing machine’s hoses for any signs of damage or if they are loosely connected.

• Drainage inspection. Inspect the drain line for blockages—a common situation that leads to leaking.

• Detergent-related issues. Look for foam or a soapy residue at the bottom of the washing machine. If there is a presence of this, too much detergent could be causing a leak.

• Unusual sounds. Gurgling or dripping noises during the cycle could indicate leaking water. 

Signs of a Washer Leaking From the Bottom

While some signs are easier to notice than others, here are some key indicators your washing machine could be leaking from the bottom: 

• Pooling water underneath the washing machine
• There’s dirty water leaking from the washer during its wash cycle
• The flooring underneath the washing machine is soft and soggy
• Water-stained or warped floorboards underneath the washing machine
• Damp and musty smells around the washing machine
• There’s water under the washing machine drum

Immediate Steps To Take When You Notice Your Washing Machine Leaks From the Bottom

If you’ve noticed your washing machine is leaking from the bottom, here are the steps to take:

1) Turn Off the Washing Machine Immediately

Hit the off button on your washing machine to stop its cycle. Other power-related steps need to be taken but after this, the operation has at least stopped. 

2) Disconnect the Washing Machine and Nearby Appliances

After the washing machine has been turned off, disconnect it from its connections. If your washing machine is located near other appliances, disconnect them as well to mitigate other potential hazards or damage. 

3) Switch Off Power to the Affected Area

To further eliminate the potential for electrical hazards, locate the circuit breaker in your home and shut off power to the affected area. This is to make sure no electrical connections are being made to the area of the washing machine and any other areas that have been affected. 

4) Turn Off the Water Supply if the Leak Source is Unclear

If you haven’t been able to determine the source of the leak, cut off the water supply. It’s important to prevent the leak from persisting for any longer than it already has. 

5) Remove Standing Water or Call weDRY. 

If you’ve determined the area is safe, remove standing water from the affected area. For water cleanup services you can count on to eliminate standing water, reach out to weDRY Restoration. 

6) Inspect Hoses and Connections

Start to inspect the washing machine’s hoses and connections to see if they were the cause of the leak. Analyze them carefully for signs of damage or wear, or if they were too loosely connected.

7) Repair or Replace Damaged Parts

Once you’ve determined which parts have been damaged, look to make repairs or replacements. Most repairs and replacements of parts can be done by yourself with access to the right tools and safety precautions in place. 

8) Call a Professional

Even though many parts can be replaced on your own, attempting to respond to a leaking washing machine is typically something best left to the pros. Call weDRY Restoration at 248-752-3222 for water-related services so the issue can be thoroughly and safely addressed. 

Experience water damage after a storm? We can help there too. 

Steps to Prevent Your Washing Machine from Leaking

Most instances of a water machine leaking can be prevented or at least kept to a minimum. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent this inconvenience from striking in your home:

• Install a flood sensor
• Reduce the amount of detergent you use 
• Keep laundry loads small
• Inspect the washing machine’s hoses and connections regularly

Dealing With Washing Machine Water Damage in Southeast Michigan? 

If a leaking washing machine has created water damage in your Southeast Michigan home, turn to the professionals at weDRY Restoration. We’re ready to help with reliable water damage solutions to remedy the issue—even on a 24/7 basis. We’ll even help with your insurance claim. From water, fire, and mold damage, choose our team of experts for restoration services.