why is my washer leaking
Matthew Wilson
Updated on August 10, 2026
A washer leaking from the bottom can cause significant damage to your home if it is not fixed quickly. In most cases, the leak will be caused by a loose or punctured drain hose, a fault with the drain pump, or a worn-out tub-to-pump hose.
Is it worth fixing a leaking washing machine?
Repair: If the repair would cost less than 50% of the price of a new appliance and your machine still has several expected years of life left, a quick fix could be a cost-effective solution over replacing the entire washer. An active warranty can also make any repair worthwhile.
Why does my washing machine leak during the spin cycle?
A washing machine leaking during spin cycle means you have a problem in either one of the large drain hoses, one of the seals inside the pump, or one of the outer tub seals. Too much detergent can also cause washer leaks on spin cycle.
How do I find a leak in my washing machine?
Locate the Source of the Leak
Empty the washing machine, move it away from the wall and start the fill cycle.Look for drips around the water supply hose connection at the back of the machine while it fills with water.Shut off the water and replace any old, heavily corroded or rusted hoses with new ones.
Can overloading a washer cause it to leak?
Unleveled or overloaded washing machine: The washer can leak if it is overloaded or out of balance. Check to be sure the washer is level, reduce load sizes, and keep an eye out for the leak.
Can an unbalanced washer leak?
An unbalanced washing machine can cause water to leak from the washer in a number of ways. The machine will vibrate and shake as it agitates and spins, which can cause water to spill out the washer’s lid or door. Running a large laundry load will require that your washing machine fills almost entirely with water.
Can a blocked filter cause a washing machine to leak?
Whilst a blockage is more likely to result in the water being unable to drain from the appliance, rather than a leak, leaks can occur from the filter if the seal becomes damaged. You can check this by removing the filter and giving the seal a once over, replacing it if it appears damaged.
How do you unclog a washing machine drain pipe?
To unclog a clogged drain, first fill a bucket with boiling water and a pack of baking soda. Remove the drain pipe from your washing machine and slowly pour the water into the drain using a funnel. Wait a few minutes and test if it keeps draining if you pour water into it.
How long do washers last?
A typical washer should last 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up.
How often should you replace your washing machine?
The average life expectancy of a new washing machine is 11 years. Consumer Reports recommends replacing any appliance that’s more than eight years old, unless it’s a high-end model and has a particular appeal to you.
Why is my Whirlpool washing machine leaking water underneath?
The number one cause for leaks in a Whirlpool front load washing machine is due to a faulty drain hose. If you are experiencing water stains or wet floors in your laundry room, the main culprit could be your drain hose. The most common sign of a leaky drain hose is water collecting underneath the washer.