A leaking dishwasher is one of the problems you do not want to deal with. However, it is intermittent and likely to happen when you need to use your dishwasher. Sometimes the problem goes on even if the dishwasher is not in use. Wiping water off your kitchen floor from a leaking dishwasher constantly can be tiresome. Besides, those pools of water can cause dangerous accidents and be a significant health hazard for you and other people living in your house.
Finding out the cause of the problem is not easy. This is why you should let Pittsburgh Appliance Repair handle it. It takes a qualified and professional plumber to check and repair a leaking dishwasher. Trying to solve the issue yourself may worsen the situation and end up costing you a lot more. However, it would be helpful to know the six common reasons you may have a leaking dishwasher.
Drainpipe
One of the common problems that cause leakage is a malfunctioning drainpipe. It clogs and interferes with the discharge hose pipe’s performance making the drainage process slow. Sometimes, raising the drainage pipe higher than the sink’s drain level can fix the issue. If it doesn’t, call a plumber to check and repair it.
Leaking door
A leaking dishwasher door causes water to accumulate underneath the system’s door. It is possible to tighten the latch using a screwdriver and secure closure. However, if the leaking continues, you should check the gasket. The gasket is the seal along with the door and prevents water from leaking out of the dishwasher. If the gasket is totally damaged, it must be replaced to stop the problem.
Damaged or loose valves
Damaged or loose valves are a common problem in old dishwashers. The inside hoses and connections become loose with time due to wear and tear caused by constant use. Valves must be checked periodically to ensure they are not loose or damaged. Also, confirm that the hose is securely connected on both sides at all times. Besides, the inlet valve must be functioning smoothly; if not, it can cause flooding in your kitchen.
In addition, when the hoses get cracks, they leak and should be replaced quickly. If you choose to do it yourself, make sure the pipes you buy match your dishwasher’s model. You can also talk to an expert or just leave the work to your local professional plumbers.
Clogged Filter
The dishwasher has a filter that traps food particles and debris from your dishes. Check the filter and ensure it’s clean if your dishwasher is leaking. Get rid of any foreign objects and foods that are likely to clog it. Even when your dishwasher is working smoothly, clean the filter at least once every month for optimal performance.
Dishwasher misalignment
Sometimes your dishwasher will leak because it’s placed on uneven ground. This is a common problem because some older homes do not have level floors. Even when the floor looks level, it may be a little off-kilter and causes your appliance to leak. Ensure that your unit sits on flat ground to prevent water from accumulating on one side.
Dishwasher misalignment causes water pressure to accumulate on the door and prevents it from closing correctly. If the problem is not addressed, the door gets damaged, and a lot of leaking occurs when washing dishes. The best way to solve the problem is to get a plumber to check your ground level and provide efficient solutions. You can also use shims until the level of your system is perfect.
Soap
The type of soap you use to clean your utensils can create soap suds that cause pressure that lead to soap and water leakage in your unit. You should only use the recommended dishwasher detergent to prevent soap suds. Besides, if dishes are rinsed before they are loaded in the dishwasher, you shouldn’t use soap because it sticks on dishes and bubbles in the unit leading to leakage.
A broken dishwasher can be stressful, especially when the problem is not easy to identify. It is a headache that you do not want to deal with at any time. Apart from making it impossible to wash your utensils whenever you want to, it prevents the growth of mildew and mold that grows on the ground where the system is placed. It takes some effort and skills to diagnose and fix the problem. Call a professional plumber anytime you notice leakage. The earlier the problem is tackled, the more you save time and expenses to prevent further damage.
