Appliances · checked 5 Oct 2026
The washing machine is leaking
Safety, right now
- Keep everyone out of the puddle.
- Do not touch wet plugs, outlets, or washer controls.
- Close both washer water valves only if reachable from dry footing.
Fix it nowEight steps
- Stop the cycle only with dry hands, controls, and footing.Avoid touching electrical equipment while standing in water.
- Close both accessible water valves; never force stuck valves.Shutting the supply stops incoming water.
- Switch off washer breaker only from dry footing at a dry panel.Isolate electricity before cleanup; never remove the panel cover.
The other five steps
- After power isolation, absorb accessible water with towels.Keep away if electricity cannot be safely isolated.
- Inspect visible hoses and connections without moving or tipping the washer.Locate loose connections, cracks, or displaced hoses.
- With water off, hand-tighten an accessible loose supply-hose connection.Stop if damaged or still leaking; arrange hose replacement.
- If drum is empty and door unlocked, wipe front-loader seal; inspect for tears.Debris can cause leaks; torn seals need an appliance technician.
- Leave power and water off until the cause is corrected.Book an appliance technician for unresolved leaks or internal faults.
When to stop
Stop and get a appliance technician if:
- Water reaches an outlet, plug, or electrical equipment: stay clear; call an electrician. Do not restore power until inspected.
- You see smoke, flames, or active sparking: leave the area and call 911.
- Water keeps entering while off, leaks beneath the cabinet, or escapes a torn seal: call an appliance technician.
- The household drain overflows, or shutoff valves leak or will not close: call a plumber.
What it probably is
Loose or damaged supply hoseWater drips at a hose connection or through cracked hose material.You can check
Dirty or damaged front-loader door sealWater escapes around the door; debris or tears appear in the seal.You can check
Too much detergent or an overloaded drumExcessive foam or an overfilled drum accompanies the leak.You can check
Displaced drain hose or blocked household drainWater spills behind the washer during draining; the drainpipe may overflow.For a pro
Failed inlet valve or internal componentThe drum fills while off, or water emerges beneath the cabinet.For a pro
Time and parts
- Time
- About 15–30 minutes for safe inspection and cleaning only.
- Parts
- $0 for inspection, cleaning, or hand-tightening; replacement parts extra.
Get it done
More than a quick fix? Vora gets quotes privately and recommends one appliance technician.
Checked against
- CDC: Protect Yourself From Electrical Hazards
- GE Appliances: Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?
- GE Appliances: Washer — Leaking in Rear
- GE Appliances: Washer — Drips or Fills When Not Turned On
Written for Vora from these public sources and checked on 5 Oct 2026. General guidance, not a substitute for a pro on site. In danger, leave and call 911.