A Whirlpool fridge freezer leak can be a frustrating and messy problem that can damage your floor and spoil your food. If you notice water dripping from your fridge freezer or pooling under it, you need to act fast to find the source of the leak and fix it.
A Whirlpool fridge freezer leak can be caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain, a faulty water filter, a damaged water line, or a cracked water tank or valve.
In this post, we will show you how to stop a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak and what to do with the water.
How to stop a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak?
The first step to stop a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak is to unplug the appliance from the power source and remove any food items from the freezer compartment. Then, you need to identify the location and cause of the leak. Here are some possible scenarios and solutions:
- If the leak is coming from inside the freezer, it may be due to a clogged or frozen defrost drain. The defrost drain is a small hole at the bottom of the freezer that allows water from the defrost cycle to drain into a pan under the fridge. If the drain is blocked by debris or ice, the water will overflow and leak from the freezer. To fix this, you need to clear the drain by flushing it with hot water or using a turkey baster or pipe cleaner to dislodge any obstruction. You may also need to remove the back panel of the freezer and thaw any ice buildup on the drain with a hair dryer or a fan.
- If the leak is coming from the water filter area, it may be due to a faulty water filter. The water filter is usually located in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment and filters the water for the dispenser and ice maker. If the filter is torn, missing, or not properly installed, it can cause water to leak from the filter housing. To fix this, you need to replace the filter with a new one that matches your fridge model and make sure it is securely locked in place.
- If the leak is coming from behind or under the fridge, it may be due to a damaged water line. The water line is a thin hose that connects the fridge to the water supply valve on the wall. If the line is loose, cracked, or punctured, it can cause water to leak from the hose or the connection. To fix this, you need to tighten or replace the water line and check for any leaks at both ends.
- If the leak is coming from underneath or inside the fridge, it may be due to a cracked water tank or valve. The water tank is a plastic container that stores water for the dispenser and ice maker. The water valve is an electric device that controls the flow of water to the tank and ice maker. If either of these components is cracked or broken, it can cause water to leak from them. To fix this, you need to replace the water tank or valve with new ones.
What to do with the water from a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak?
After you have stopped the Whirlpool fridge freezer leak, you need to deal with the water that has accumulated on your floor or inside your fridge. Here are some tips on what to do with the water:
- Use towels, newspapers, or rags to soak up as much water as possible from your floor or fridge.
- Wipe down any wet surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
- Check your food items for any signs of spoilage or contamination and discard any that are unsafe to eat.
- Dry out your floor or fridge with a fan or dehumidifier to prevent moisture damage.
- Monitor your fridge for any signs of recurrence of leaks and call a professional service if needed.
FAQs about Whirlpool fridge freezer leak
Q: How can I prevent my Whirlpool fridge freezer from leaking?
A: Some of the ways to prevent your Whirlpool fridge freezer from leaking are:
- Clean and inspect your defrost drain regularly and remove any debris or ice that may clog it.
- Change your water filter every 6 months or as recommended by your manufacturer and make sure it is properly installed.
- Check your water line for any signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.
- Avoid overloading your freezer or blocking the air vents with food items.
- Keep your fridge level and balanced on all four legs.
Q: How do I know if my Whirlpool fridge freezer is leaking?
A: Some of the signs that your Whirlpool fridge freezer is leaking are:
- You see water dripping from your fridge freezer or pooling under it.
- You hear unusual noises such as humming, buzzing, or rattling from your fridge freezer.
- You notice frost or ice buildup on the walls or coils of your freezer.
- You feel warm or humid air coming from your fridge freezer.
- Your fridge freezer is not cooling properly or running constantly.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak?
A: The cost to fix a Whirlpool fridge freezer leak depends on the cause and extent of the leak, as well as the availability and price of the replacement parts. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of refrigerator repair in the US is $200 to $400, with most homeowners spending between $100 and $300. However, the actual cost may vary depending on your location, the complexity of the repair, and the service fee of the technician.
