General owner-safe guideUpdated July 2026

Washing machine leaking

Water appears under, behind, or in front of the washer during filling, washing, or draining.

Start hereStop the cycle and shut off the water taps if the leak continues.

Try these checks in order

Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.

  1. 1

    Note when the leak starts

    Dry the floor. Run no more than a brief supervised test only when water is away from electricity. Note whether it leaks while filling, washing, or draining.

    What you want: The timing points to the inlet, door, or drain path.
  2. 2

    Check inlet hose connections

    Inspect the tap and washer connections for drips. Hand tighten only if the manual permits it. Replace damaged washers or hoses.

    What you want: Connections remain dry during filling.
  3. 3

    Inspect the drain hose

    Look for splits, loose clamps, overflow at the standpipe, or a hose that has fallen out.

    What you want: The hose is secure and the household drain accepts water.
  4. 4

    Use the correct detergent amount

    High-efficiency washers require HE detergent. Excess suds can escape through vents or the door.

    What you want: The detergent type and amount match the manual.
  5. 5

    Clean the visible door seal

    On front-load models, remove lint or small items from the visible gasket. Do not pull or remove the seal.

    What you want: The sealing surface is clean and undamaged.

Stop and arrange help when

  • Water is near an outlet, plug, cord, or control panel.
  • A hose is split, bulged, or spraying.
  • The door glass, tub, or cabinet is cracked.
  • The leak comes from inside the cabinet.

If the problem remains

Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.