Refrigerator Leaking Water? Find the Source and Fix It
A refrigerator leaking water leaves a puddle inside or on the floor. Most often, a seal, the water valve, or the ice maker is the source. Therefore, check each water path in turn. Below, we list the parts to inspect, starting with the door seals.
Parts to inspect for a refrigerator leaking water problem
1. Door Gaskets Or Seals
The door gasket seals the cabinet so cold air stays inside. When it hardens or tears, warm air leaks in and the unit runs longer. First, close the door on a slip of paper and feel the drag as you pull it out. Then replace the gasket if it no longer grips all the way around.
2. Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to feed water to the ice maker and the dispenser. When it clogs or fails, you get little or no water and often no ice. Therefore, check the valve screen for scale and test the coil for continuity. Replace the valve if it is blocked or electrically dead.
3. Ice Maker Assembly
The ice maker module fills, freezes, and ejects the cubes on a cycle. When the module fails, the fridge makes no ice even with good water. So check the fill, then test the module’s motor and heater. Replace the assembly if the cycle does not complete.
Get the parts
We supply OEM and replacement parts in bulk. Browse the Appliance Parts catalog, or request a bulk quote for volume orders.
Is the unit old or failing often? A new ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator can cut energy use, so weigh a repair against a replacement.
Most of the time, a refrigerator leaking water problem traces back to one worn part. So replace it, then run the unit and confirm the fix.