A fridge leaking water inside is more than just a nuisance—it can ruin groceries, cause mold, and shorten your appliance’s lifespan. Fortunately, most water leaks in refrigerators are due to simple issues you can diagnose and fix with a bit of guidance. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and what you can do about it.

Introduction: Why Your Fridge Might Be Dripping

Noticing pools of water inside your fridge can be concerning, especially if the leak is recurring. The issue might appear minor but left untreated, internal leaks can damage food, shelves, and the fridge's internal electronics. Understanding the root of water leaks in refrigerators is the first step to fixing it—and avoiding costly repairs down the line.

What Causes Your Fridge to Leak Water Inside?

1. The Defrost Drain is Blocked

Most modern refrigerators come with a defrost mechanism that melts frost from the coils and channels it into a drain. If this drain becomes blocked, the water has nowhere to go and begins leaking inside the fridge.

Solution:
Unplug the fridge, locate the defrost drain (usually at the back near the bottom), and flush it with warm water or a turkey baster. If it’s frozen, thaw it with a hair dryer on a low setting.

2. Ice Maker or Water Line Leaks

If your refrigerator has a built-in ice maker or water dispenser, leaks may come from a cracked or loose supply line. These leaks can cause water to pool inside or underneath the appliance.

Solution:
Inspect the hose at the back. Make sure it's connected tightly and not cracked. Replace if damaged.

3. Condensation Due to Door Seal Failure

A broken or dirty gasket can allow warm air to enter your fridge, leading to condensation buildup, which appears as water pooling inside.

Solution:
Clean the gasket with a mixture of warm water and baking soda. If the seal is cracked or loose, replace it.

4. Drain Pan Issues

If the defrost drain leads to a cracked or misaligned drain pan, the water won’t evaporate as it should.

Solution:
Remove and inspect the drain pan beneath the fridge. Replace it if damaged.

Preventing Water Leaks in Refrigerators

A few simple maintenance tips can help prevent leaks:

• Clean defrost drains regularly
  
  

• Keep vents clear for airflow
  
  

• Maintain proper fridge temperature (between 37°F–40°F)
  
  

• Don’t overfill the fridge
  
  

• Check water lines periodically
  
  

Conclusion

If you notice your fridge leaking water inside, don’t panic. Most issues are easy to fix and even easier to prevent. By understanding common causes and staying on top of fridge maintenance, you can stop water leaks in refrigerators before they become a costly mess. And if you need expert service, Wilshire Refrigeration is just a call away.