Refrigerator Leaking Water Inside or on the Floor? Fixes

Water inside the refrigerator is most often from a clogged defrost drain, while water on the floor usually comes from the water supply line, the water filter, or the drain pan. Shut off the water supply if you see a steady leak, then check the filter, the line behind the fridge, and the level of the unit.

Most common causes

Clogged defrost drain. During defrost, melted frost runs through a drain to a pan underneath. If food or ice blocks the drain, water collects under the crisper drawers or freezes on the freezer floor.
Water supply line leak. The plastic or braided line that feeds the ice maker and dispenser can crack or loosen at the connection, leaking water behind or under the refrigerator.
Water filter not seated. A filter that is the wrong type, not locked in, or has a damaged seal can drip inside the fridge or down behind it.
Cracked or misplaced drain pan. The pan under the refrigerator catches defrost water so it can evaporate. If it cracks or shifts, water ends up on the floor.
Refrigerator not level. Most refrigerators should tilt slightly back so water flows to the drain and doors close on their own. A forward tilt can send water out the front.
Ice maker or dispenser problem. A leaking water inlet valve or a dispenser that drips can leave water in the ice bin or on the floor.
Worn door gasket. A bad seal lets warm, humid air in, which creates extra frost and extra water during defrost.

What you can safely check

If water is spreading, turn off the water supply valve to the refrigerator and dry the floor.
Remove the water filter and reinstall it until it locks fully. Use the filter type listed in your owner's manual.
Unplug the refrigerator, pull it out carefully, and look at the water line connection on the back for drips or a kinked line.
Check for water or ice under the crisper drawers or on the freezer floor, which points to a clogged defrost drain.
Check that the refrigerator is level side to side and tilted slightly back. Adjust the front leveling legs if needed.
Inspect the door gaskets for tears and clean them with warm soapy water.

Call a technician if

The defrost drain keeps freezing or clogging after you clear it
Water is leaking from inside the back wall of the refrigerator
The water inlet valve or line keeps dripping after you tighten and reseat things
Water has reached cabinets, hardwood, or the room below

Call (323) 240-2373

What affects the repair cost

Clearing a defrost drain or replacing a water line is usually a simple repair. Replacing a water inlet valve, drain pan, or door gasket costs a bit more depending on the model. Fixing a leak early is much cheaper than repairing floor damage later.

Related services

Refrigerator Repair Freezer & Ice Maker Repair

Frequently asked questions

Why is there water under my refrigerator?+

The most common causes are a leaking water supply line, a filter that is not seated, or a cracked drain pan. A clogged defrost drain can also overflow and run under the unit.

Why is there water under the crisper drawers?+

That is almost always a clogged defrost drain. Defrost water cannot get out, so it collects at the bottom of the fresh food section.

Can a water filter cause a fridge to leak?+

Yes. A filter that is not fully locked in, is the wrong type, or has a damaged O ring can leak inside the fridge or behind it.

Is a leaking refrigerator dangerous?+

Water near electrical parts and outlets is a risk, and long leaks damage floors. Shut off the water supply and dry the area until it is fixed.