Dishwashers make getting chores done faster and easier, but when they start leaking on the floor, they only create more work. Additionally, pooling water causes damage and dangers in the kitchen. Determining why your dishwasher leaks requires a little detective work. It might be a simple fix, or you might need to call a plumber so the water stays in the appliance where it belongs. 

Why Your Dishwasher Might Be Leaking

1. Wrong Detergent 

While you’re likely using dishwasher detergent in the soap dispenser, it’s possible that traces of liquid dish detergent left on your dishes could be causing a leak. Regular dish soap creates excess suds, which force the soap and water out the door. When you rinse dishes before loading, avoid using soap to prevent this from happening. 

2. Misalignment

If your dishwasher isn’t completely level, it won’t drain properly and the water will likely end up on the floor underneath. This is especially common in older homes that have uneven floors.

To ensure that your washer is level, a professional can place a level on the rail for the bottom rack to ensure it’s even from front to back, and then across the open door to check from side to side. If it’s off by even a small amount in either direction, they will use a shim to prop up the dishwasher and keep it perfectly level. 

3. Door Problems

If water tends to pool directly in front of the dishwasher door when the machine is running, it could be a problem with the door itself. The most common issues are a broken door latch or leaking gasket, the rubber seal that surrounds the door. An experienced plumber can easily repair either of these problems.

4. Cracked Hoses 

If water is coming from underneath the dishwasher, then you may have a cracked hose or issues with the hose connections. These are usually located on the bottom of the dishwasher, and require disconnecting the entire appliance to locate. In most cases, your plumber can easily replace the hoses or tighten valves to stop the leak. 

5. Overfilling 

While it’s running, your dishwasher is constantly draining. Any time the water doesn’t drain properly, though, the tub can easily get overfilled and water will leak out the doors.

Overfilling can be caused by several possible problems. It could be a clog in the filter at the bottom of the tub or the drain line. It could also be that the float valve or switch, a part designed to prevent overfilling, isn’t working properly and needs to be replaced. 

If your dishwasher is leaking and you can’t figure out why, turn to Nobles Plumbing and Drain Cleaning for fast, expert help. Serving the Mason, OH, area, this plumber is ready to take on any plumbing problem you have, from leaky appliances and clogged drains to water heater installation and maintenance. For more details about their services, visit them online. To request a quote, call (513) 237-1781.