Why is my dishwasher leaking, and what are the first steps to fix it?

A leaking dishwasher is often caused by straightforward issues like a damaged door seal, loose hoses, a clogged filter, or an unlevel machine. This guide suggests starting by inspecting the door seal for debris or damage, and then checking hoses and connections for tightness. Always switch off power and turn off the water supply before checking under the sink.

How do I identify if my dishwasher door seal is causing the leak?

To check the door seal (gasket), wipe the rubber gasket around the door with a damp cloth to remove any debris or soap scum. Then, carefully examine it for any cracks, splits, or flattened sections. Ensure it sits snugly in its channel around the door. If damaged, it will likely need to be replaced with a part from your model’s manufacturer.

What should I check if my dishwasher is leaking from underneath or from the back?

Leaks from underneath or the back often originate from the inlet or drain hoses. This guide advises switching off power and water supply, then locating the hoses at the back of your dishwasher or under the sink. Feel around the joints and clamps for dampness and tighten any loose hose clips with a screwdriver. If a hose is cracked or brittle, it should be replaced.

Can a dirty or blocked filter make my dishwasher leak?

Yes, a blocked filter can certainly cause water to pool and overflow, leading to a leak. This guide recommends removing the bottom rack, locating the round filter at the base, and twisting it out. Rinse it under warm tap water and use an old toothbrush to scrub away grease or limescale, then reinstall it securely. Cleaning the filter every 1-2 months can prevent blockages.

What else could cause my dishwasher to leak from the front if the door seal seems fine?

If the door seal isn't the issue, two other possibilities for a front leak are an unlevel machine or issues with the detergent dispenser. This guide suggests placing a spirit level on the door edge and adjusting the front feet until the machine is perfectly horizontal. Also, check the detergent dispenser for soap buildup or a stuck flap, as excessive foaming can lead to leaks.

Fix Dishwasher Leaks – DIY Guide to Stop Water | Need a New Dishwasher

Where to Look When Your Dishwasher Is Leaking

Noticed a puddle beneath your machine? A leaking dishwasher can be a nuisance, but most drips have straightforward fixes. Follow these checks in order to find and stop the leak.

1. Inspect the Door Seal

Info/Quick Fix: Wipe the rubber gasket around the door with a damp cloth to remove debris and soap scum.

Close-up of a dishwasher door seal rubber gasket

The door seal (or gasket) prevents water escaping during a wash. Over time it can tear or get clogged with food bits. Examine it carefully:

Look for cracks, splits or flattened sections.
Ensure it sits snugly in its channel around the door.
If damaged, order a replacement gasket from your model’s manufacturer.

2. Check Hoses and Connections

Warning/Top Tip: Always switch off power and turn off the water supply before checking under the sink.

Person inspecting dishwasher hoses under sink

Leaks often start where the inlet or drain hose meets the machine:

Locate the hoses at the back of your dishwasher or under the sink.
Feel around joints and clamps for dampness.
Tighten any loose hose clips with a screwdriver.
If a hose is cracked or brittle, replace it—these cost under £10 from most DIY stores.

3. Clean and Examine the Filter

Reminder/Frequency: Clean out the filter basket every 1–2 months to prevent blockages and smells.

Hand cleaning a dishwasher filter basket

A blocked filter can cause water to pool and overflow:

Remove the bottom rack and locate the round filter at the base.
Twist and lift it out, then rinse under warm tap water.
Use an old toothbrush to scrub away grease or limescale.
Reinstall securely—if it’s loose, water may splash past it.

4. Level Your Dishwasher

If your machine tilts forward, water can drip out before it drains:

Place a spirit level on the door edge.
Adjust the front feet by turning the screw beneath the machine.
Retest until the dishwasher sits perfectly horizontal.

5. Inspect the Detergent Dispenser

Excessive foaming or a stuck dispenser flap can lead to leaks:

Open the dispenser and check for soap buildup.
Run a short cycle with no dishes and no detergent to test the flap action.
Switch to low-foam detergents if oversudsing persists.

Bottom Line: Most leaks are cured by cleaning seals, tightening hoses or replacing inexpensive parts. A little elbow grease can save you from buying a new dishwasher—at least until your current one retires on its own terms.

My Dishwasher is Leaking Water - Where to Look and How to Stop It