How to Fix a Leaking Refrigerator
If you’re dealing with mystery moisture in your kitchen, a leaky refrigerator could be the culprit. Fortunately, fix this problem doesn’t require buying a new refrigerator. In fact, you can solve this problem with these simple leaky fridge fixes.
Check Your Door Gaskets
Faulty seals allow warm air in and cool air out. As a result, the interior temperature of your refrigerator will rise, causing it to work overtime to keep things cool. This extra work will build up condensation around the cooling coils, resulting in drips. Over time, these pools will grow and eventually become large puddles. Begin by checking your rubber door gaskets. If you notice a faulty seal, scrub the gaskets with warm water. This will remove any buildup. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the gasket can also create a seal. If you still have a faulty seal, you may need to call a technician to replace your gaskets.
Inspect Your Defrost Drain
The defrost drain moves condensation out of your fridge and into the drain pan. Over time, ice and debris can clog the drain, resulting in backups and a wet kitchen floor. The location of your defrost drain will vary based on your refrigerator’s make and model. Consult your user’s manual to locate the drain. In most cases, flushing your drain with warm water will clear any blockage. If the line is clogged with debris, use a water-baking soda mixture (one teaspoon of baking soda and two cups of water) to loosen stubborn buildup.
Look at Your Drain Pan
Your refrigerator drains water into a pan to prevent pooling inside the food storage area. Age, use, and moving can crack your pan and cause water to drip onto your floor. You can examine your drain pan by removing your fridge’s kick plate and following the drain line to the drain pan. You may have to pull the refrigerator away from the wall in order to find the drain line. Slide the drain pan out and look for holes or cracks. Call your manufacturer to order a new pan if you notice any signs of damage.
When to Call a Professional
If your refrigerator is still leaking, it’s likely that your leak is inside your refrigerator. Ongoing internal moisture can damage fan motors, important electronics and cause rust. Addressing less-obvious dripping will require the expertise of a pro. If you suspect your fridge is leaking coolant, it’s important to call a technician immediately. This toxic chemical can threaten the safety of you and your family.
credit: Wilson Weaver