How to Troubleshoot a Leaky Refrigerator

Leaks in the kitchen can come from anywhere – your sink, dishwasher, and even your refrigerator. Luckily for you, refrigerator leaks usually don't require a visit from a plumber. In fact, most incidents of leaky fridges are caused by one of three things, all of which can easily be fixed without professional help.

Follow the steps below to troubleshoot and fix your leaking refrigerator.

Cause 1: Uneven Refrigerator

If your refrigerator is leaning forward, water cannot properly flow into the drain and will instead leak out of the bottom of the unit. If your refrigerator is uneven, you can easily level it by following these steps:

1. Have a helper tilt the refrigerator back
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the legs – turning it clockwise will raise the unit and counterclockwise will lower it.
3. Adjust the necessary legs until the unit is completely level.

Cause 2: Clogged Drain Tube

If you own an auto-defrosting refrigerator, it is likely that the drain tube is clogged by a piece of ice or some other debris. Here's how to unclog it:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall and remove the crisper drawers. You should see the drain tube.
2. Use a hair dryer to melt any ice which is causing the blockage. If it isn't ice, insert a pipe cleaner or cotton swab into the tube to remove the clog.
3. Flush the drain tube with warm water.
4. Replace the drain tube and crisper drawers, and plug your refrigerator back in.

Cause 3: Cracked Drip Pan

The drip pan is located underneath the refrigerator and collects water from the drain tube until it evaporates. If the drip pan is cracked, this water will leak out from under your refrigerator onto your floor. To fix this:

1. Remove the toe grille from the bottom of your refrigerator.
2. Locate and remove the drip pan. It should easily slide out.
3. Inspect it for any cracks or holes which would allow water to escape. If it is damaged, replace immediately.
4. Insert the drip pan and snap the toe grille back into place.

If you have tried all of these steps and your refrigerator is still leaking, it is time to call the professionals. If you live on Long Island, a properly-working fridge is just a phone call away with Speedy Refrigerator Service. Our technicians are fully licensed and insured, plus we provide same-day repairs in the comfort of your own home. Our phone lines are open 24/7, so give us a call anytime at 866-782-9376.