Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking? Top 7 Causes & Fixes

A leaking dishwasher can be frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean an expensive repair or a call to a plumber is required. In many cases, the issue is something simple that you can fix yourself.

There are a handful of common reasons why dishwashers leak, from a loose door latch to an unlevel appliance or even using the wrong detergent. We’ll guide you through the most likely causes, how to check for them, and—most importantly—how to fix them.

Here are the top seven causes of a leaking dishwasher and how to fix them:

1. The gasket is dirty or worn out

The rubber gasket around the door is what keeps water inside the dishwasher. If it’s dirty, loose, or damaged, the door won’t seal properly, leading to leaks. You may notice water leaking from the sides or bottom of the door if this is the cause.

Follow these steps to check the gasket:

1. Check if the gasket is loose—if it is, try pressing it back into place.
2. Clean the gasket with warm, soapy water and a sponge, toothbrush, or cloth.
3. Inspect for cracks or wear—if it’s damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
4. Thankfully, replacement gaskets are inexpensive and easy to install. It’s usually just a matter of pulling out the old gasket and pressing a new one into place.

2. Water supply line leaks

A damaged or loose water supply line could be the culprit behind your leak. This line is usually connected underneath the dishwasher, so a leak here will typically cause water to pool beneath the unit.

Here’s how to fix the issue:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and turn off the water supply.
2. Remove the kick plate at the bottom of the dishwasher to access the supply line. On some models, you may need to pull the dishwasher away from the wall.
3. Inspect where the water line connects—if it’s loose, tighten it gently with a wrench.
4. Run your fingers along the hose to check for damage or moisture.
5. If the hose is cracked or leaking, replace it.
6. Clean up any excess water in the base and drip pan, reassemble the kick plate, and test the dishwasher.

3. Issues with the drain line

A leaking dishwasher can sometimes be traced to a drain line problem. If the hose is clogged, cracked, or not installed correctly, water can back up and leak out. If you can see water in the tub after a cycle, this suggests there’s a drainage issue.

Here’s how to check the drain line:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and turn off the water supply.
2. Locate the drain line—it’s usually under the sink where it connects to the plumbing.
3. Check for moisture around the connection point. If it’s damp, tightening the hose clamp may solve the problem.
4. Clear any blockages using a plumber’s snake if necessary.
5. Inspect the hose for cracks or damage. If it’s broken, you’ll need a replacement.

Make sure the drain line is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions—incorrect placement can also cause leaks.

4. The dishwasher isn’t level

If your dishwasher isn’t sitting level, water can pool where it shouldn’t and eventually spill out. Having it properly leveled helps prevent leaks and ensures it runs efficiently.

To level your dishwasher, grab a spirit level and check both front to back and side to side. If it’s off, remove the kick plate at the bottom of the dishwasher (you may need a screwdriver).

Then, use a wrench to adjust the leveling legs, raising or lowering each one until the unit sits evenly. Ensure all four legs are firmly in contact with the floor.

5. Door latch problems

Another common reason for leaks is a faulty door latch. If the latch is loose or damaged, the door won’t seal properly, allowing water to escape.

You can check it by opening the dishwasher door and inspecting the latch at the top. If it looks worn or has buildup, give it a good clean. Then, slowly close the door and listen for a clicking sound. If it doesn’t click or the door doesn’t stay shut, the latch may need to be replaced.

Here’s how to replace a faulty latch:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and shut off the water supply.
2. Open the dishwasher door and remove the screws securing the inner door panel.
3. Close the door and carefully remove the outer panel.
4. Locate the door latch at the top center of the door.
5. Disconnect its wiring harness and remove the old latch by pressing the locking tabs or removing any screws securing it.
6. Install the new latch, reconnect the wiring, and secure it in place.
7. Reassemble everything, restore power and water, and run a test cycle.

6. Using the wrong detergent

Using the wrong detergent can cause your dishwasher to leak. Dish soap or other non-dishwasher detergents can create excessive suds that overflow and seep out of the door.

Therefore, you should only use detergent specifically made for dishwashers. If you’ve used the wrong soap by accident, run a rinse cycle with vinegar to break down the suds.

More isn’t always better, follow the dishwasher manual or detergent packaging for recommended amounts.

7. Faulty pump

If your dishwasher is leaking from the bottom, you might be dealing with a faulty pump. The pump circulates water during cycles and drains it afterward. A broken pump seal or cracked housing can let water leak underneath.

Diagnosing a pump issue can be tricky, and fixing it often requires professional help. However, here are the general steps involved:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and shut off the water supply.
2. Remove the bottom access panel (kickplate).
3. Inspect the pump area for drips or moisture, and check for cracks in the pump housing or worn-out rubber seals.
4. Tighten any loose clamps or screws around the pump.
5. If the seal is worn out, replace it using a pump seal kit.
6. If the pump housing is cracked, you’ll need to replace the entire pump assembly.
7. This typically involves disconnecting the hoses connected to the pump, unscrewing any bolts or mounting brackets securing it, and unplugging the pump’s wiring harness.
8. After the old pump is removed, a new pump assembly is installed.

While replacing the pump assembly is straightforward in some models, it can be more complex in others with additional steps. Don’t hesitate to call an expert if needed.