If your fridge is leaking water inside, it can be one of the scariest things possible. You might think, what is scary about a fridge leaking water inside, right? Think about the hundreds or thousands of dollars you are going to spend on its repair or replacement. Sounds scary now, doesn’t it? Don’t worry because we will let you know about the reasons behind a leaking fridge and how to fix it.
Why is my Fridge Leaking Water Inside – Reasons to Know
There are several reasons for why does my refrigerator leak water inside.
1. Defroster Drain Line Issues
Modern refrigerators run on a freezing and defrosting cycle. In other words, it produces condensation. The moisture travels down the drain line into the pan. However, at times the drain line can become clogged with water or food particles. You may even see ice chunks blocking the entire drain. As the fridge is running, the moisture has nowhere to escape. It is the first answer to your why is my fridge dripping water inside.
2. Faulty Water Dispenser or Ice Maker
If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, leaks could be originating from these components. Check the water supply lines and connections for any leaks. Also, make sure the ice maker unit is functioning properly and not overfilling.
3. Problem with the Water Valve
If there is water leaking from the back of the fridge, the problem is with the water valve. At times, the problem may be with the water pipe that works with your water dispenser or ice breaker. Regardless of the reason, this is one problem that you should not fix yourself. Instead, call a certified technician. However, you should pinpoint the problem as it will save you considerable time. For instance, the technician might first come to inspect the problem and then come back later to fix it. It will end up costing you a lot. If you already locate the problem, all you need to do is pay for the solution.
4. Faulty Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating air within the fridge. If it’s not working correctly, it can cause uneven cooling and excessive moisture buildup, leading to leaks.
5. Clogged Drain Pan
One way that manufacturers address the problem of why is my fridge dripping water inside is through condensation. The fridge drains the water into the pan, and the condenser then uses warm air to evaporate the water. At times the drainpipe can become clogged and requires cleaning. In rare instances, it can become damaged. Contact a certified refrigerator repair technician to replace it right away.
6. Ice Build-up
Another common problem in refrigerators is excessive ice or frost build-up. We all know this feeling. Imagine opening the freezer, and it looks like the arctic. The reason for this is that you may have left the door open for too long. As a result, it increased the humidity levels inside the fridge. The solution is to ensure that the doors are properly closed after using the refrigerator.
7. Excessive Humidity
High humidity levels inside the fridge can lead to condensation, which might appear as leaks. Make sure your fridge’s temperature and humidity settings are appropriate.
How to fix a fridge that leaks water inside?
The answer is simple. You need to find the drain line and clear the clog. For this purpose, you can use warm water and flush it down the drain. You may use a funnel for flushing the warm water. If this does not work, you need to get your hands dirty. Pull the fridge away from the wall and locate the bottom back service panel. There should be a valve there. Please remove it. Then, clean the valve thoroughly. Insert it back. 10 times out of 10, it will fix the problem.
If the problem still persists, here are a few other things to consider to fix the water leakage issue.
Inspect and Repair the Defrost Drain Pan
If the drain pan is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Remove the old pan and replace it with a new one that’s compatible with your fridge model.
Check Water Dispenser and Ice Maker:
Inspect the water supply lines and connections for any leaks or damage. Tighten any loose connections. For the ice maker, ensure it’s not overfilling. Adjust the fill level if necessary.
Examine the Door Seal
Check the door seal for any damage or misalignment. Clean the seal with warm, soapy water to remove any debris that might be preventing a proper seal.
Address Excessive Humidity
Adjust the humidity settings if your fridge has this feature. Make sure the door is not being left open for extended periods.
Test the Evaporator Fan
Open the freezer and listen to the sound of the evaporator fan running. If it’s not working, it might need to be replaced.
Conclusion
If you’ve attempted these basic fixes and the problem persists, or if you suspect a refrigerant leak or other complex issue, it’s best to contact a professional appliance repair technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix more complicated problems.
Remember that safety is important when working with electrical appliances. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s always a good idea to seek professional assistance.
