If you have a Whirlpool fridge, you may encounter a problem with water leaking from the inside or outside of your appliance. This can be a frustrating and messy issue that can damage your floor and spoil your food. Fortunately, there are some common causes and solutions for a Whirlpool fridge leaking water that you can troubleshoot yourself or with the help of a professional.
A Whirlpool fridge leaking water may be caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain, a damaged water inlet valve, a cracked water filter, or a faulty water reservoir. These problems can result in water leaking from the filter housing, the dispenser, the interior compartment, or the back of the fridge.
How To Identify The Source Of The Leak
Before you can fix your Whirlpool fridge leaking water, you need to identify where the water is coming from and what is causing it. Here are some steps you can take to locate the source of the leak:
- Check the water filter. The water filter is usually located in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment or behind the base grille. If the filter is not installed properly or is cracked, it can leak water from the filter housing or the dispenser. To check the filter, turn off the water supply to the fridge and remove the filter. Look for any signs of damage or misalignment and replace the filter if needed. Make sure to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for installing and replacing the filter correctly.
- Check the defrost drain. The defrost drain is a small hole at the bottom or back of the freezer that allows excess water to drain into a pan under the fridge. If the drain is clogged by ice or debris, it can cause water to back up and leak into the fridge compartment or onto the floor. To check the defrost drain, unplug the fridge and remove any food or items from the freezer. Locate the drain hole and use a turkey baster or a pipe cleaner to clear any blockages. You can also use a hair dryer on low heat to melt any ice buildup. Flush some warm water down the drain to make sure it is clear and flowing properly.
- Check the water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is a device that connects the water supply line to the fridge and controls the flow of water to the ice maker and dispenser. If the valve is damaged or leaking, it can cause water to drip from the back of the fridge or onto the floor. To check the water inlet valve, unplug the fridge and pull it away from the wall. Locate the valve at the lower rear of the fridge and inspect it for any cracks, corrosion, or loose connections. You may need to use a multimeter to test for continuity and resistance in the valve. If you find any signs of damage or malfunction, you may need to replace the valve with a new one.
- Check the water reservoir. The water reservoir is a plastic tank that stores cold water for dispensing through the door. If the reservoir is cracked or punctured, it can leak water inside or outside of your fridge. To check the water reservoir, unplug the fridge and remove the crisper drawers from the fridge compartment. Locate the reservoir behind the drawers and inspect it for any signs of damage or leakage. You may need to replace the reservoir with a new one if it is cracked or punctured.
