Your dishwasher is supposed to solve your problems, not create more. When you come across a leak caused by your dishwasher, it always warrants immediate attention. Your first instinct might be to call a professional, but first, it is important to take a moment to see what’s going on.
Our plumbers have handled multiple dishwasher leak repairs and have helped put together some steps to take when you encounter a dishwasher leak.
What is the first step to fixing a dishwasher leak?
Always lay down some towels to soak up the water, you wouldn’t want yourself or anyone slipping. Containing the leak can help prevent damage to other parts of your home depending on the severity.
Locate the cause of the leak
The source of the leak is the first indicator of whether this can be a DIY fix or if a plumber is required to fix it up. Check under the appliance, the door, or the drain to see if these common culprits are the source of the leak.
If the leak happens around the door, it can result from the gasket, spray arm, or stuck float. However, when it’s under the appliance it could mean a pump, hose, or other types of water inlet problem which would require a professional. If the drain is a culprit, then it is unlikely the dishwasher at fault and rather the drain system which can be fixed on your own or with the help of a professional.
Isolate the problem
Take a very close look at the gasket, which is made of soft material. After many uses, that material can start to break down over time which can cause leaks if left unattended for so long.
Examine the spray arm inside the dishwasher, during a cycle it tends to move a lot which can result in damage. Look specifically for cracks, any kind of warping, or blockages there.
One of the ways to check if the float is the issue is to turn off the machine in the middle of a cycle. Carefully open the door and check where the water level is if it’s above the heating component, which indicates there is an issue with your dishwasher’s float.
If none of those are responsible, then it’s time to look under the dishwasher. If there’s anything wrong with any of the material, pumps, drains, or damage to the space itself like cracks and tears then there is a bigger problem at hand.
Dishwasher repair with 1st Response Plumber
We have been dedicated to serving all of San Diego for over the last 15 years. Our goal is to be the first to respond to all of your plumbing emergencies and needs. If you need a dishwasher repair urgently, we’ll gladly help.
