Washing machine leaking: finding the leak and fixing it
A puddle under the washing machine needs dealing with quickly, but the cause is often harmless. What matters most is pinpointing exactly where the water comes from: the front, the back or underneath point to very different parts.
Safety first
Switch off the electricity and the water supply immediately. Never touch the machine while standing in water.
The causes, from most to least common
Check them in this order: the first ones are free and solve the majority of cases.
- 1
Dirty or punctured door seal
very commonHow to check: The leak appears at the front, under the door, during the wash. Pull the seal back: debris, hair or a small sharp object gets trapped in it.
Fix: Clean the seal thoroughly. If it is punctured or split, replace it.
ModerateEstimated cost: 0 € (cleaning) to 60-150 € (new seal fitted) - 2
Too much detergent
very commonHow to check: Lots of foam visible through the door, water overflowing from the detergent drawer.
Fix: Cut the detergent dose sharply and run an empty rinse cycle.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 3
Loose water inlet connection
commonHow to check: Water appears at the back, including when the machine isn't running.
Fix: Tighten the connection by hand and replace the O-ring if it is crushed.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 to 10 € - 4
Drain filter not screwed back properly
commonHow to check: A leak at the bottom front, right after cleaning the filter.
Fix: Screw the filter fully home and check its seal is in place.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 5
Punctured tub, pump or hose
less commonHow to check: Water comes from underneath, during the cycle, unrelated to the door or the connections.
Fix: Professional diagnosis: the part may be an internal hose (inexpensive) or the tub (usually terminal).
ProfessionalEstimated cost: 80 to 250 € depending on the part
If you take this out-of-warranty washing machine to a QualiRépar-certified repairer, 50€ comes off the invoice.
| Repair by a professional | 80 to 250 € |
| Repair bonus deducted | - 50 € |
| What you pay | 30 to 200 € |
Indicative estimate: the real price depends on the part, the model and the call-out. The bonus can never exceed the invoice total.
How to claim the repair bonus →When to call a professional
If the leak comes from underneath and neither the filter nor the connections are to blame, call a repairer. A punctured tub on a machine over 8 years old generally justifies replacement.
Find a repairer near you →Frequently asked questions
My washing machine leaks at the front, what should I do?
Check the door seal first: pull it back and clean out the debris trapped in it, looking for any sharp object. Then check the drain filter is screwed fully home with its seal. Too much detergent can also make water overflow.
Can you keep using a washing machine that leaks?
No. Beyond the risk of water damage, water can reach the electrical components and create a risk of electrocution or a short circuit. Switch off the power and the water supply until it is repaired.
Your washing machine may be nearing the end of its life: a washing machine lasts 8 to 11 years. Beyond that, an expensive repair is harder to justify.