Refrigerator Leaking Water? Where It Comes From and How to Stop It

A small puddle under the fridge can damage floors and cabinets fast. Here is how to find where the water is coming from, and what you can fix yourself.

Call Now – (650) 459-7977
  • Open 24/7
  • Fast response
  • Upfront quotes
  • All major brands
Technician testing a refrigerator control board with a multimeter

Why is my refrigerator leaking water?

Most refrigerator leaks come from a clogged defrost drain, a leaking water supply line, a cracked water filter housing, or a fridge that is not level. Leaks from the ice maker or dispenser usually point to a bad inlet valve or fill tube.

The location of the water is the best clue. Water inside the fridge, water under the front, and water behind the fridge usually have different causes.

How do you find where the leak is coming from?

Where the water isLikely cause
Inside, under the crisper drawersClogged defrost drain
Under the front of the fridgeOverflowing drain pan, clogged drain, or fridge not level
Behind the fridgeLeaking water supply line or inlet valve
Near the water filterCracked filter housing or filter not seated
Under the ice maker or dispenserBad inlet valve, fill tube, or dispenser seal
Ice on the freezer floorClogged freezer defrost drain

What can you fix yourself?

You can clear a clogged defrost drain, reseat or replace the water filter, check the supply line for kinks or drips, and level the fridge. Unplug the fridge before you work behind or under it.

  • Clear the defrost drain. Find the drain hole at the back of the fresh food section. Flush it gently with warm water using a turkey baster.
  • Reseat the water filter. Remove it and put it back until it clicks. Replace it if the housing is cracked.
  • Check the supply line. Pull the fridge out and look for drips at the valve and along the line. Plastic lines can crack with age.
  • Level the fridge. Most fridges should tilt slightly back so the doors close and water drains properly.
  • Dry the area well. Use towels and a fan so moisture does not lead to mold.

Even a slow drip adds up. The EPA's WaterSense program notes that household leaks waste huge amounts of water every year, so it pays to fix small leaks early.

Water spreading under your fridge? Unplug it if water reaches the outlet, then call us. Leaks are a priority.

Call Now – (650) 459-7977

What about mold and food safety?

Dry the floor and cabinet base within a day or two to prevent mold. If the leak came from a cooling problem and the fridge got warm, check your food temperatures before you keep anything.

The EPA's mold guide explains that controlling moisture is the best way to stop mold growth. If the fridge warmed up, use FoodSafety.gov's cold storage chart to decide what to keep.

When should you call a technician?

Call if the leak comes back after you clear the drain, if the water line or inlet valve is leaking, or if there is ice building up in the freezer. Our refrigerator repair service fixes leaks, defrost problems, and water valves on all major brands.

If the leak started with the ice maker, read our guide on ice makers that stop working. If your fridge is also warm, see why a refrigerator stops cooling.

Frequently asked questions

Why is there water under my refrigerator?

The most common causes are a clogged defrost drain, a leaking water supply line, a cracked filter housing, or an overflowing drain pan. A fridge that is not level can also send defrost water to the wrong place.

Why is there water inside my fridge?

Water pooling under the crisper drawers usually means the defrost drain is clogged with ice or food. The melted frost has nowhere to go, so it collects inside.

Is a leaking refrigerator dangerous?

The water itself can damage floors, cause mold, and create a slip hazard. Unplug the fridge if water is near the electrical outlet or cord.

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
Appliance technician using a power drill to open an appliance cabinet

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