Washing machine leaking?
Where the water first appears and which part of the cycle is running can narrow down a washing-machine leak. Water at the front may come from the door or dispenser; water at the rear may be from a hose. A leak from underneath can involve an internal component.
Common clues
- Door seal or dispenser overflow
Residue, trapped fabric, a damaged door seal, or too much detergent can let water escape at the front. Check the seal visually without pulling or stretching it.
- Inlet or drain hose connection
A loose, split, or poorly seated hose can leak while filling or draining. The timing of the leak is a useful clue, but do not move a heavy machine to reach a hidden connection.
- Internal hose, pump, or tub issue
A puddle appearing from beneath the cabinet can come from an internal hose or pump. These parts are not safe to access while the machine is connected to power or water.
Useful checks before calling
- 1Stop the cycle
Pause the machine and keep away from standing water if it may have reached a socket, plug, or extension lead.
- 2Shut off water if reachable
Turn the appliance’s water valve off only if you can reach it without stepping into water or moving the machine. Do not force a stiff valve.
- 3Note where water first appears
Use towels to limit a small spill if the area is safe. Photograph the first visible wet point and note whether the machine was filling, washing, or draining.
- 4Check accessible surfaces
With the machine off, look at the visible door seal and dispenser for obvious residue or damage. Do not remove panels or reach underneath.
If water is near electricity, the socket is wet, the floor is flooded, or the machine smells of burning, do not touch the appliance. Keep clear and get urgent professional help.
When to contact a repairer
Arrange repair if a leak returns, comes from beneath the machine, or is associated with a damaged hose, door seal, pump, or error code. Tell the repairer whether the leak occurs during filling, spinning, or draining.
Useful details to have ready
- Where the water first appears and how much there is
- The cycle stage and approximate time when the leak starts
- Any visible seal or hose damage, without moving the machine
Common questions
Can I keep using the washing machine if the leak is small?
It is safer to stop and identify the source first. A small leak can reach electrical parts or damage flooring, and running another cycle may make it worse.
Should I pull the machine out to inspect the hoses?
Do not move a heavy machine if it could strain hoses or expose wiring. Check only connections that are already visible and safely reachable; ask a repairer to inspect concealed parts.
Post the repair job for local workers to review.
Share the job details and postcode area to invite offers. You can still post if no matching repairers are listed, but a quote is not guaranteed.