Is your fridge leaking? It’s a frustrating issue many homeowners in Melbourne deal with. Whether it’s pooling inside or dripping onto the kitchen floor, it can be worrying, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. At Melbourne Metro Refrigeration, we often come across fridge leaks and are here to help you figure out what’s going wrong and how to fix it.
Common Causes of a Leaking Fridge
A refrigerator leaking water is often the result of one of several issues. Fortunately, most of these problems are preventable with regular maintenance, and many can be easily fixed with a little know-how.
- Blocked Drainage System: The most common reason for a fridge to leak water is a blockage in the drainage system. Refrigerators have a drainage system that channels condensation and water from the interior to a drip tray underneath. When food particles, crumbs, or ice build up in these tubes, they can become blocked. This blockage can occur in the drain hose or drain hole, leading to water pooling inside the fridge and eventually leaking out onto the floor. Using a pipe cleaner can help clear these blockages effectively.
- Clogged Defrost Drain: In fridges with a defrost cycle (common in frost-free models), a clogged defrost drain is another major cause of leaks. This drain carries water from melted frost away from the fridge and into a drip pan. A blocked defrost drain or defrost drain hose can cause water to accumulate inside. Regular maintenance, including checking the attached drain valve and ensuring the drain pan evaporates properly, can prevent these issues.
- Water Dispenser or Ice Maker Malfunctions: For refrigerators with water dispensers or ice makers, a leak might come from a broken or loose water supply line. This could lead to water pooling at the bottom of your fridge or leaking onto the floor. Issues such as a frozen water supply line or problems with the water line can also cause these malfunctions.
- Damaged Door Seals: If your fridge door seals are worn out, it may allow warm air to enter, which can cause excess condensation to form inside, leading to water leakage. Regularly inspecting and maintaining the refrigerator door seals can prevent this issue.
A cracked drain pan can also lead to leaks by allowing water to escape onto the kitchen floor. The drain pan collects condensation from the evaporator fins, and if it is damaged, it needs to be inspected and potentially replaced to prevent further leakage.
How Can You Fix a Leaking Fridge?
While some issues require professional intervention, there are a few things you can do to address the problem yourself.
For Cyclic Fridges: If your fridge uses a cooling plate and the blockage is near the entrance of the drainage tube, you might be able to clear it by using a plastic straw or cable tie. Ensure the drain hole is clear of any food debris to prevent clogs. Gently poke it into the drainage entrance to dislodge the blockage. Using a pipe cleaner can also help remove any stubborn clogs in the defrost drain hose. Afterward, pour a cup of water down the tube to see if it flows freely. If the water still pools, the blockage may be further down the tube, and you’ll likely need professional assistance.
For Frost-Free Fridges: In frost-free fridges, the drainage system is often harder to access. If the blockage is further down, you’ll need to call in a technician to disassemble parts of the fridge to clear the drainage system safely. Attempting this yourself could lead to damage or injury, so we recommend contacting Melbourne Metro Refrigeration for help.
Unable to Stop Your Leaking Fridge? Here’s When to Call a Technician.
If your fridge is leaking water and you’re unsure about the cause, it’s best to call in the experts at Melbourne Metro Refrigeration. Whether water continues to leak despite clearing the drainage system, or you’re uncertain about the fridge’s type, our team offers free over-the-phone diagnostics and no-obligation estimates. Signs like excessive ice build-up, exposed electrical components, a cracked drain pan, or a frozen water supply line all signal that professional help is needed. Don’t wait for further damage. Contact us today at 1300 139 797 for prompt, professional repairs.
