Puddles on the floor or inside your refrigerator are telltale signs of leaking, but what causes a refrigerator to leak water? A loose water line connection or water line damage are often at fault, requiring tightening or replacement of the damaged hose. In some cases, a part malfunction is to blame, like a faulty water filter or inlet valve. Determine what’s responsible for your KitchenAid refrigerator leaking water and the right solution.

5 Common Causes for a KitchenAid Refrigerator Leaking Water

Leaks not only result in a messy cleanup but can even leave lasting damage. We’ll troubleshoot a KitchenAid refrigerator leaking water with the most likely causes and solutions to keep the mess to a minimum.

Water Line Issues

If there are puddles on the floor behind the refrigerator, they may be due to a KitchenAid refrigerator water line leak. These leaks occur if the water line has loose connections, the tubing isn’t fully inserted in the connection or the line has sustained damage.

Here’s how to assess water line leaks and solve the problem:

  • Loose water line connection: Use a wrench to tighten any loose connections at the refrigerator and your home’s water supply valve.
  • Tubing is improperly inserted: Make sure the tube is secure inside the fitting. If it appears loose or fits improperly, it may require a professional assessment.
  • Water line is damaged: A damaged water line requires professional replacement.
KitchenAid refrigerator leaking

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Clogged Defrost Drain

The defrost drain carries water from the automatic defrost system to the drain pan under the refrigerator. Sometimes, residual water can freeze in the tube, preventing water from flowing. These clogs usually cause leaks on the floor or under the refrigerator’s produce or deli drawers. This is because the KitchenAid refrigerator defrost drain location is usually behind the refrigerator’s rear wall, near the drawers.

Wondering how to unclog a refrigerator drain tube? Check your user manual to determine how to access the tube on your model refrigerator. Melt the clog by pouring hot water or hot water mixed with baking soda down the drain until you hear water flowing again.

Defective KitchenAid Water Filter

Do you notice leaking around your refrigerator’s ice or water dispenser? Do your refrigerator ice cubes taste bad or does it seem as though your ice maker isn’t working properly? If so, it’s likely that your KitchenAid refrigerator water filter is defective.

These are several possible causes for water filter leaks:

  • Incorrect installation: Remove the filter and reinstall it to make sure it’s installed correctly.
  • Missing O-rings: If the O-rings are missing or damaged, the filter won’t operate correctly and can cause leaks. Replace the filter with a new one, ensuring that the rings are intact.
  • Damaged filter: A cracked or damaged filter could also result in leaking and requires replacement.
  • Broken water filter housing: If the water filter compartment is cracked or chipped, the filter may not be securely attached, resulting in leaks. Broken water filter housing requires professional replacement.
  • Using generic replacement filter: Generic water filters are less expensive to purchase but may not fit correctly and are more likely to cause leaks. That’s why we recommend using only name brand OEM filters in your refrigerator.

kitchenaid refrigerator water line leak

Faulty Water Inlet Valve

A refrigerator leaking water on the floor is often due to a faulty water inlet valve. This valve opens and closes to allow water to flow to the refrigerator from your home’s water supply. If it’s faulty, your KitchenAid refrigerator leaking is usually coming directly from the valve. While a loose valve can be tightened to stop the leaking, a faulty valve cannot be repaired and requires replacement.

Drain Pan Broken or Overflowing

Leaks from underneath the refrigerator may be due to a damaged or overflowing drain pan. The pan is located below the refrigerator, behind the bottom toe grill.

Here’s how to access the refrigerator drain pan and assess for issues:

  • Disconnect the refrigerator’s power.
  • Pull on the toe grill with both hands to remove it and access the pan.
  • Disconnect the pan, sliding it forward from under the refrigerator.
  • If the pan is full of water, empty it into the kitchen sink.
  • Check for signs of damage like cracks or holes.
  • If the pain isn’t damaged, reconnect it, replace the toe grill, and restore power. A damaged drain pan requires replacement.

If you find your KitchenAid refrigerator leaking water after these troubleshooting tips, you may need a refrigeration repair service to assess the problem. Call Advance Appliance Service for a fast and professional assessment!