The washing machine leaked: causes and what to do in such a situation

During the washing process, did you suddenly notice that water appeared on the floor under the washing machine? Unfortunately, things like this happen sometimes. Water leakage from the bottom of the automatic machine is a sign of the failure of some element of the device. Proper diagnosis and timely repair of a breakdown can save you from flooding your bathroom or even your neighbors downstairs in the future.

In addition, we will tell you which dryer to choose: separate or combined with a washer and how to repair the washing machine.

Why is the washing machine leaking, and what should be done in such a situation? There can be several reasons for the appearance of a puddle of water on the floor - from the most serious equipment malfunctions that require the help of a qualified specialist, to much more banal and prosaic.

Drain pump problem.

Dirty water from the washing machine is drained using a drain pump through a special drain hose included in the package. Damage to the pump often results in flooding of the floor surface around the unit.

Solution: A damaged pump cannot be repaired and must be immediately replaced with a new one. The data sheet of the automatic machine contains information about the model, as well as the manufacturer of the pump. You can change the pump yourself or entrust it to the master.

Often the problem is less serious than a broken drain pump. It happens that the filter in the pump is too dirty or clogged with debris. Hair, animal hair, lint, coins, small items of clothing such as torn buttons, etc. can accumulate on it. To remove them, simply pull out the pump filter located at the bottom of the washer and clean it well.

Remember to check pockets before placing clothes in the washing drum. Since it is the various trinkets left in them that clog the filter mesh and cause water to flow from under the washing machine, flooding the floor.

Leaky solenoid valve

Another of the elements of the automatic machine, which is quite often damaged and starts to leak, is the solenoid valve (solenoid). The cause of such leaks is usually the deposition of limescale and the formation of scale. Mold can also form on the valve, accelerating its destruction. If the solenoid valve is not tight, water flows from under the washing machine, usually when it is set, and not drained.

Solution: If the solenoid valve is leaking, replace it with a new one. You can deal with this without any problems on your own. However, it is better to seek help from professionals who service and repair washing machines at home.

TIPS: To prevent future damage to the solenoid valve, use special water softeners to prevent the formation and deposition of limestone. Putting the clamp on the solenoid, do not tighten it until it stops. Thanks to this, it will not break, and water will not flow out of the machine.

Rubber apron damage

Located around the opening on the drum of the washing machine, the rubber gasket, the so-called "apron" (or flange), can be easily damaged by water and prolonged use. As a result of wear, cracks, or tears, the apron loses its tightness, and the water under the washing machine begins to flow out during washing.

Solution: Carefully inspect the rubber collar around the edge of the drum for damage. If even a small crack is found, it is necessary to replace the part with a new one.

Regularly (every 2-3 years) change the gasket of the automatic machine. After each washing cycle, remove the remaining water and detergent from the apron with a napkin or cloth, wiping it dry.

Destruction of drum bearings

The bearings in the washing machine are responsible for the smooth rotation of the metal drum. Their lubrication is washed out over time, they rust and are destroyed by corrosion, so the oil seal (rubber gasket) does not fit tightly to them and loses its tightness.

As a result of this, water enters the bearings through the gaps of the seal, and then flows down the tank to the floor. A washing machine with destroyed bearings rattles and vibrates very strongly when spinning clothes. Under it, puddles of rusty water with traces of grease appear. There can be only one way out of the situation - a complete replacement of bearings and gaskets (oil seal) is required.

Damaged device drum

Regardless of the brand and model of the washing machine, even if it is a well-known branded appliance from LG, Samsung, Indesit, Whirlpool, Electrolux, Bosch, Beko, or other popular manufacturers, it may break down over time. One of the most serious malfunctions is damage to the drum.

Its failure occurs as a result of improper alignment of the device during installation after purchase. This leads to an uneven distribution of weight and, as a result, a rupture of the metal tank. A damaged drum causes a washing machine to leak and water collects on the floor.

Solution: A broken drum must only be replaced. Trying to glue it is a pointless undertaking. Any adhesive will dissolve in the water, causing the bathroom to leak again and flood. If you do not have special knowledge of the issue of installing this element of the machine, you should entrust its replacement to a specialist.

Deterioration of the heating element sealing gum

Water is heated in the washing machine thanks to the heating element. The tight fit of the heating element to the tank is ensured by a rubber seal. Over time, it wears out, and the automatic machine begins to leak in the area where the heating element gasket is adjacent. In models with a heater located at the back, the washing machine flows from below near the back of the device. In units with the heating element placed in front, the leak also appears from under the bottom, but near the front panel of the washer.

Solution: Unfortunately, the gaskets for the heater are not sold separately, so it needs to be replaced completely with a seal. Some in this case use sealants, but they are not enough for a long time, and the unit leaks again after 2-3 months.

Cracked water drain hose.

The drain system of washing machines is one of the most problematic elements. If the flexible corrugated water drain hose is damaged, the washing machine will leak and form a puddle on the floor. The hose may also be clogged with debris or lint from clothing.

Solution: If the hose is cracked, buy a new one and replace it. To do this, move the machine slightly away from the wall, but do not pull too hard, as the equipment is connected to a water pipe. If there is no damage, just clean it, removing dirt.

The drain hose must not be too tight, bent unnaturally, or pressed against the wall. It is necessary to keep a small distance (about 5 cm) between the washing machine and the wall, according to the instructions for use of the device.

Cracked powder container.

One of the commonplace reasons that water flows from the washing machine may be due to a crack in the box for dispensing powders and liquid detergents. The drawer is not near the drum, however, some water still gets into it when laundry detergent is taken in doses from the compartment.

Solution: If you notice water in front of the washing machine, check the integrity of the dispenser box. Even a small crack in it allows water to flow out.

Leaks can also occur as a result of a loose drawer due to residual build-up of powder after multiple washes. To remedy the situation, remove the detergent drawer and rinse it thoroughly under running hot water. Use a toothbrush to get access to all corners of the compartment. In case of severe clogging, you can leave it to soak overnight in soapy water.

The Manhole door is not hermetically closed.

If you have ruled out all of the above malfunctions, but have not found the reason why the washing machine is leaking, it may be worth looking elsewhere. A fairly harmless malfunction could be, for example, damage to the door lock in the device, through which water will flow slightly. In theory, when the door is not tightly closed, the machine should not start at all. But sometimes its closure is not so leaky as to prevent the equipment from turning on.

Solution: A broken lock in such a situation needs to be replaced, which is not a big expense. Its installation should be entrusted to professionals.

In some cases, the access door may not close due to incorrect leveling of the washing machine. Periodically, this should also be checked and, if necessary, corrected.

SUMMARY

The washing machine is leaking for several reasons. Some of them are minor, and you can deal with them yourself with a little skill and the ability to use the usual set of tools. However, there are serious malfunctions that should be dealt with exclusively by specialists in the repair of household appliances.

It is necessary to get rid of the problem of the flow of the automatic machine as soon as possible, because, firstly, it is extremely annoying. Secondly, you can flood your neighbors by paying them for repairs in the apartment later. But the worst thing is that there is a danger of killing yourself with an electric current since water is its conductor. Most often, the washing machine is shocked when the voltage is shorted to the case or its metal elements.