Have you noticed puddles inside your fridge or water dripping from the top shelf? A refrigerator leak can seem serious, but many times you can fix it yourself. Understanding why your fridge is leaking water inside helps you resolve the issue—whether it’s minor condensation or a damaged water line—and protects both your food and flooring.
This guide explains the most common reasons for fridge leaks, signs of more serious issues, and how to prevent major water problems.
Is a Fridge Leaking Water Dangerous?
Yes, it can be. While some leaks are harmless, ongoing water leakage can damage flooring or cabinetry, cause mold, create electrical hazards, and increase slip-and-fall risks.
If you’re wondering, “Why is my refrigerator leaking water underneath?” or “Is a fridge leak dangerous?”—the answer is yes, and it should be fixed quickly.
Common Reasons Why Your Fridge Is Leaking Water Inside
1. Clogged or Frozen Defrost Drain
A blocked defrost drain is the most common reason for water pooling inside the fridge. When food debris or ice clogs the drain, melted condensation has nowhere to go and backs up into the fridge.
How to fix it:
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Unplug the fridge.
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Flush the drain with warm water.
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For frozen drains, use warm (not boiling) water or a pipe cleaner.
2. Faulty or Misaligned Water Supply Line
Fridges with water dispensers or ice makers have a supply line that can crack, kink, or loosen. This often causes leaks behind or beneath the unit.
How to fix:
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Pull the fridge away from the wall.
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Inspect the line for cracks or loose connections.
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Tighten or replace as needed.
Common in Samsung and Frigidaire models.
3. Damaged or Cracked Drain Pan
The drain pan collects water from defrost cycles. If it cracks, water may leak onto the kitchen floor.
Fix:
Unplug the fridge, remove the drain pan, inspect for cracks, and replace if damaged.
4. Worn Door Gasket or Seal
A damaged door seal allows warm air to enter, creating condensation that may drip inside the fridge.
Fix:
Clean the gasket with warm soapy water. Replace it if cracked or warped.
Test the seal using a flashlight—if light passes through, the seal is bad.
5. Water Filter Issues
Improperly installed or old water filters can cause leaks, especially in modern refrigerators (e.g., Samsung, Frigidaire).
Fix:
Remove and reinstall the filter properly. Replace if older than 6 months or cracked.
6. Internal Food Spills or Container Leaks
Sometimes the leak is simply from food containers—like cracked trays, leaking cartons, or broken packaging.
Fix:
Empty and clean the fridge thoroughly, checking each container.
7. Excess Humidity or Placing Hot Items Inside
High humidity or putting warm food directly into the fridge creates internal condensation that may appear as leaking.
Fix:
Let food cool before refrigerating. Use desiccant packs in humid regions. Check temperature settings.
8. Fridge Not Properly Leveled
Fridges must tilt slightly backward for proper drainage. If not leveled, water can pool and leak inside.
Fix:
Use a level and adjust front legs so the front sits slightly higher (¼–½ inch).
Why Is My Fridge Leaking Water Inside and Freezing?
This usually means the fridge is too cold or the defrost drain is frozen, blocking proper drainage. Ice buildup can melt and refreeze, causing inconsistent leaks.
Solution:
Reset temperatures to:
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Fridge: 37°F (3°C)
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Freezer: 0°F (-18°C)
Defrost if necessary.
Why Is My Refrigerator Leaking Water from Underneath?
Common causes include:
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Cracked drain pan
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Faulty water line
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Overflowing defrost drain
Check these areas to diagnose the issue.
How to Stop a Fridge Leaking Water
Quick steps:
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Unplug the fridge.
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Inspect the defrost drain, water line, and drain pan.
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Check seals and water filters.
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Clean food spills.
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Ensure the fridge is level.
If the problem persists, professional help may be required.
Need Professional Help?
If your fridge is still leaking after troubleshooting, contact Repair My Appliance. They repair major brands such as Samsung, Frigidaire, and Whirlpool.
Contact Information:
📞 587-416-5888
📍 Edmonton | Red Deer | Calgary
📧 support@repairmyappliance.ca
