Dishwasher Leaking From the Door or Underneath? 7 Causes

A dishwasher leak can ruin cabinets and subfloors before you notice it. Here is how to find where the water is coming from and what to do first.

Call Now – (650) 459-7977
  • Open 24/7
  • Fast response
  • Upfront quotes
  • All major brands

Why is my dishwasher leaking?

Dishwashers usually leak from a worn door gasket, a loose or cracked drain hose, a failing water inlet valve, a leaking pump seal, a clogged filter that makes water back up, suds from the wrong detergent, or a dishwasher that is not level. Where the water shows up tells you a lot about the cause.

Where is the water coming from?

Where you see waterLikely cause
In front of the door during a cycleDoor gasket, suds, door not level
Under the dishwasher, centerPump seal, drain hose, inlet valve
Under the sinkDrain hose clamp or disposal connection
Side of the cabinetDishwasher not level or tub seam leak

What are the 7 most common causes?

1. Worn door gasket

The rubber seal around the door can crack, shrink or get food stuck in it. Wipe it clean and look for gaps.

2. Wrong detergent or too much of it

Regular dish soap makes suds that push water out the door. Use only dishwasher detergent.

3. Loose or cracked drain hose

Check under the sink where the hose meets the disposal or drain. A loose clamp is a quick fix.

4. Failing water inlet valve

This valve lets water in. If it sticks or cracks, water can drip under the unit even when it is off.

5. Pump or motor seal leak

Seals under the tub wear out with age. Water under the center of the dishwasher is a common sign.

6. Clogged filter

A dirty filter can make water back up and overflow. Clean it every month.

7. Dishwasher not level

If the front sits lower than the back, water pools at the door. Adjust the feet so it sits level.

Water still showing up under the dishwasher? Call us before it reaches the cabinet and subfloor.

Call Now – (650) 459-7977

What should you do right away?

  • Stop the cycle and turn off power at the breaker.
  • Close the hot water valve under the sink.
  • Dry the floor and pull out the toe-kick panel to look underneath with a flashlight.
  • Check the hose and clamps under the sink.
  • Clean the filter and the door gasket.

Hard water in Santa Clara County can also build scale on valves and seals. Our guide to dishwashers and hard water in Mountain View explains how to limit it, and Valley Water has local water information.

When should you call for repair?

Call if the leak continues after you check the gasket, detergent and hoses, if water drips when the dishwasher is off, or if you see water under the center of the unit. Our dishwasher repair service replaces gaskets, valves, pumps and hoses on Bosch, Miele, KitchenAid, GE and other brands. If the problem is standing water inside, read why a dishwasher won't drain.

For water damage tips, the EPA's mold guide recommends drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.

Not sure if it is worth fixing? See repair or replace.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my dishwasher leaking from the bottom of the door?

A worn door gasket, a bent door, too much detergent, or using regular dish soap are the most common causes. Check the gasket first.

Can I keep using a leaking dishwasher?

It is better not to. Even a small leak can damage the floor and cabinet over time. Turn it off until you find the cause.

Is a leaking dishwasher expensive to fix?

Many leaks come from gaskets, hoses or the inlet valve, which are affordable repairs. A cracked tub is less common and may make replacement the better choice.

Live 24/7 · Mountain View, CA

Talk to an appliance technician now

Tell us what your appliance is doing. We will quote the visit on the phone and book the first open slot, often the same day.

  • Upfront price before any work
  • All major and luxury brands
  • Fridge and leak calls go first

More appliance repair guides

Need an appliance fixed today?

Call now to talk to a real person, any time of day or night.

(650) 459-7977 Call Now – (650) 459-7977
Call Now – (650) 459-7977