Have you ever gone to the kitchen to eat a late-night snack only to discover that your socks were wet while getting food? If you think that someone spilled water on the floor, then you should probably check what happened before it gets worse. Since most people tend to believe that they spilled something on the floor, they may not realize that something may have caused it, like a leaking fridge.
Aside from posing a threat to the safety of consumers, having a leaking fridge can also lead to various issues, such as floor damage or an electric shock. To avoid experiencing these issues, it is important to get them fixed immediately.
What To Consider Before Tearing Your Fridge Apart And Fix Them?
Before you start tearing apart your old fridge, make sure that the leak’s location is the one causing the issue. Having the right tools and methods will aid fix the problem in no time. This information will help you avoid getting into a fix that’s not as effective as it could be. Having a good idea about the leak’s location will also help you avoid getting into trouble in the future.
- Drain pan Issue- Bottom center leak.
- Drain lin problem, interior defroster- Water leak inside.
- Drain tube clogged- Water leaked on front.
- The problem with the water line or ice maker is that water leaked on the rear.
If your Samsung fridge is leaking, then you probably need to check out these common issues. For other brands and general tips – keep reading.
Pipe Or Water Valve Failure
A water leak in the rear of your refrigerator is usually caused by a pipe or valve that is connected to an ice maker or a water valve. A certified technician can usually help diagnose the issue and fix it. To avoid electrical shock, pull the fridge away from the wall. Then, check the waterline and the connection point of the unit to see if there is any water running down the pipe.
The water valve in your refrigerator is operated by a solenoid switch. If it gets stuck, it can cause a leak. Also, the wall that houses the ice maker and the water dispenser can be a leak source. A faulty or damaged valve can cause the water supply in your refrigerator to leak. This issue usually affects the operation of the ice maker and the water dispenser.
It is important to ensure that the water line is secured and does not leak onto the floor. Also, make sure that the water line does not get damaged. If the issue still persists, then it is time to contact a service professional.
Defrost Drain Is Clogged
If the leak is coming from the bottom of the fridge, it probably has a clogged defrost drain. This is because today’s freezers are constantly producing condensation. This issue occurs when the freezers run on a freezing cycle and then defrost. The condensation then collects in the drain pan under the fridge.
The small drain on the bottom of the refrigerator can get blocked with ice chunks, food particles, or water that has accumulated. It can also get frozen shut. If the water builds up from the defrost cycle, It can also cause water to leak out blog.ifimbschool.com of the bottom of the refrigerator. If the top of the drain outlet is blocked, it is time to inspect it. Usually, flush the drain with warm water to remove the clog.
Water Connection Filter
Many refrigerators require a water filter to be replaced every seven months. However, this can be a source of water leaks for various reasons such as:
- The size is incorrect.
- The model is wrong.
- The installation is improper.
- Seals due to age or the housing are cracked.
- Poor connection with the supply line and the filter.
Sometimes, water that has accumulated in the filter can reach the inside of the fridge. Try removing the filter and reinstalling it with the manufacturer’s recommended model if this happens.
Door Seal failure
A puddle under your refrigerator is not caused by a leak. It is likely caused by the excess condensation that builds upon the coils due to the door’s faulty seal. This issue will cause condensation and eventually cause the water to leak from the floor.
Try washing the refrigerator’s gaskets using warm soapy water, and it will help remove the residue and any dirt buildup. Also, you need to ensure that the front door is leaning slightly backward to prevent it from collapsing.
There are a couple of less common issues to check when it comes to leaking fridges
Drain Pan Improperly Positioned or Cracked
This process works by draining the drain pan under the unit. The warm air from the condenser fan then flows across the pan and prevents the water from settling.
Although most drain pan issues are rare that it will break, it can also be damaged by improperly installing it, which causes the water to leak. Once this happens, pull out the pan and inspect it for cracks or holes. It is important to check for cracks or holes before replacing one. Doing so can prevent a potential overflow and minimize electric shock.
Damage Or Loose Ice Maker Tubes
If your fridge still has water leaking, it is possible that the ice maker’s water line is getting loose. This issue usually goes unnoticed, but it can still happen if the line gets loose or kinked. Also, if the plastic or seal on the front of the unit is getting worn, this can lead to a leak.
The water line that runs from the bottom of your fridge to the ice maker should be checked. Look for traces of moisture in the water line that runs from the bottom of the fridge to the ice maker. Also, make sure the connections are tight. If the issue persists, call a skilled technician.
When You Are Not Sure What You Are Doing
Sometimes, finding the cause of a fridge leak can be challenging since it can vary from one unit to another. Having a professional evaluate an appliance can help solve the issue.
If the liquid on the floor is not water but rather refrigerant, then it should be addressed immediately, and you need to contact a technician right away. During the cooling process, a mixture of gas and liquid can transform into a toxic substance. This issue can also cause serious health risks if it gets out of the refrigerator.
How To Fix A Leaking Fridge
A leaky refrigerator is a common issue that can affect your floor and other systems inside your home. A good idea of where to look for it can help avoid experiencing the same issues in the future. Having the proper tools and techniques can help you fix a leaky refrigerator.
Always check the water supply line
Leaks in your refrigerator can be caused by various factors such as faulty water supply lines and inlet valves. Before you can fix the issue, first check the ice maker and the water filter for signs of a leak. Then, open the bottom half of the unit and look for the plastic hose that connects the ice maker and the water filter.
Always check the level of your fridge
If the level of the fridge is not even, water can spill out of the drain pan. To prevent this, tilt the unit and make it level from the sides to the back. Also, try raising or lowering the screws on the front cover.
Always check the drain pan if it’s damaged
Sometimes, a crack in the drain pan can cause a leak. This issue usually occurs when the water that evaporates from the pan slips through a crack. But, you should not worry as the drain pan is located under the refrigerator and usually has some water in it.
Always check the water dispenser
If the water dispenser is dripping water, it could be the cause of a buildup of pressure. This issue can then lead to the water escaping through the opening of the machine. If this ever happens, try to continue purging water through the water dispenser for three minutes.
Always inspect the door seal
Having a faulty door seal can cause issues with the freezing of your food. If it does, then replace the seals and gaskets.
Conclusion
Even if you don’t think you have a leak, it might be possible that the issue is related to something electrical. This could be a simple issue that needs to be corrected, such as a faulty compressor start relay, or it could be something more complex that requires a professional service person. So, a thorough inspection occasionally can help you address any issue as early as possible and avoid extra costs down the road.