Should You Replace a Dishwasher Leaking From Bottom?

At a Glance:

Common Dishwasher Problems

Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking?

How To Tell When It’s Time to Replace a Dishwasher

Top Dishwasher Replacements

FAQs

Why Trust Us?

One of the most concerning problems that homeowners may encounter is their dishwasher leaking from the bottom of the door or appliance. A leaky dishwasher water can be a frustrating and potentially damaging issue, raising questions about whether it’s time to seek a replacement or if there might be a chance to salvage the existing unit. In this article, we discuss the common causes of dishwasher leaks, the potential risks associated with a leaking dishwasher, and help you make an informed decision about whether your dishwasher leaking from bottom is an easy fix or you should opt for a replacement.

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Common Dishwasher Problems

 

Despite coming from the same source, a dishwasher leaking from bottom portions can mean a number of different things. The first step in determining whether your dishwasher leaks from bottom are a small concern that can be solved with some DIY skills or if professional dishwasher service is in order. Start by understanding the most common reasons for a dishwasher not working properly. Click the ➕ below to learn more about common dishwasher issues.

Did You Know? | The average dishwasher leak repair cost is around $200.

➕Dishes Not Getting Clean

One common reason your dishwasher might not be getting dishes clean is a clogged or malfunctioning spray arm. This can hinder the proper distribution of water throughout the dishwasher, which can lead to inadequate cleaning power. Additionally, a faulty water pump may result in insufficient water pressure, impeding the effective rinsing and washing of your dishes.

➕Strange Dishwasher Noises

There are several reasons your dishwasher might be emitting strange noises. But first and foremost, it’s important to make sure it’s not a natural sound the dishwasher makes. If the dishwasher is new, you might have just gotten a model that doesn’t have great noise reduction technology. However, there are other reasons the dishwasher might be making weird noises.

➕Foul Dishwasher Smells

Generally, a dishwasher emits foul smells due to food debris and residue that accumulates over time, especially if it accumulates in hidden crevices or filters within the dishwasher. As the food decomposes, it produces an unpleasant odor, which can sometimes even stick to the dishes you clean.

➕Dishwasher Leaking

One of the most common problems a dishwasher can experience is water leakage. This can be very frustrating for users, as the water can damage other areas of your home. One of the most common culprits for water leaking is a worn-out seal or gasket, but depending on how often or where your dishwasher is leaking, there are even more reasons you should consider.

Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking?

Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking?

As stated, the most common reason for leaks is the gasket. Over time, this rubber component can degrade, lost its elasticity, or develop cracks, allowing water to seep through the dishwasher’s door during operation. But not all dishwashers leak from their door.

Problem: Dishwasher Leaking from Bottom

If you’ve run into a dishwasher leaking, you’ve probably done your fair share of online research for a solution. One of the most common inquiries we get from our shoppers is the difference between when a dishwasher is leaking from bottom left corner and when a dishwasher is leaking from bottom right corner.

Typically, there isn't much of a difference—it almost always comes down to damage that’s happened in a certain area of the dishwasher. However, where a water inlet or pump is placed can also affect where water leakage occurs. In any case, if your dishwasher is leaking whether it’s the left or right, it needs to be checked to address the issue.

First and foremost, it’s important to still check the gasket. Even if the water doesn’t look like it’s leaking from the door, the water might be dripping from the sides of the door to the bottom of the appliance. If this is the case, a simple replacement of the gasket might solve the issue.

Additionally, it’s possible that the tub of the washer might be cracked or damaged. This can occur due to wear and tear over time or from heavy items hitting the interior during a wash cycle. To fix a dishwasher with a cracked tub, you might need professional repair. Cracked tubs are generally complicated fixes that might require special tools or an outright replacement of the appliance.

Learn More: 9 Most Reliable Stainless Steel Dishwashers

Problem: Dishwasher Leaking from Bottom When Not Running

A common cause of dishwasher water leakage even when it’s off is a faulty water inlet valve that fails to shut off completely. This can lead to a continuous flow of water into the dishwasher’s tub. A constant water supply can lead to water overflow, which result in leaks around the door or from the bottom of the dishwasher. To fix this, start by inspecting the water inlet valve for any signs of damage or debris. If necessary, replace it to ensure it shuts off properly.

Another possible reason for these leaks is a damaged or clogged water supply line, which can also lead to a slow but steady water leak. This is also an important piece to replace or repair if you notice any leaks or obstructions. Repairing or freeing the supply line should fix any leaks or issues.

Luckily, dishwasher manufacturers are good at providing solutions for its users. Here are a few good resources to keep in your DIY portfolio if you happen to own one of these popular dishwasher brands.

• Whirlpool dishwasher leaking from bottom
• KitchenAid dishwasher leaking from bottom
• LG dishwasher leaking from bottom

How To Tell When It’s Time to Replace a Dishwasher

Here are six things you should keep in mind if you’re trying to determine if it’s time for a dishwasher replacement:

1.       The Dishwasher’s Age: If your dishwasher is more than 10 to 15 years old, it’s approaching the end of its typical lifespan. Replacing an older model with a newer one can ensure better performance, increased energy efficiency, and access to modern features.

2.       Frequent Dishwasher Breakdowns: If your dishwasher requires frequent repairs, the cost and hassle of fixing it can add up over time. Investing in a new dishwasher can save you from ongoing repair expenses and provide reliable performance.

3.       Inefficiency: Older dishwashers consume more water and energy compared to newer, energy-efficient models. Upgrading to a dishwasher with an ENERGY STAR rating can lead to significant savings on utility bills.

4.       Poor Cleaning Performance: If your dishwasher consistently fails to clean dishes effectively, even after maintenance and troubleshooting, it might be time for an upgrade to a more powerful and capable model.

5.      Outdated Features: If your current dishwasher lacks essential features or advanced options, such as adjustable racks, specialized wash cycles, or smart connectivity, upgrading to a new dishwasher can enhance your experience and convenience.

6.    Dishwasher Leaking from Bottom: If your dishwasher is leaking from the bottom, it could mean a damaged or broken tub. If that’s the reason for your leak, it might be cheaper to replace the appliance altogether than repair it; especially if the appliance is older.

 

Top Dishwasher Replacements

Bottom line, a leaky dishwasher means a leak in your energy and water bills. While upgrading to a new model will cost you up front, the savings in money and headaches are more than reason enough to make the switch. As far as reliable dishwashers go, these following models are top-rated and approved by appliance experts.

LG 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

 

Shop This LG Dishwasher

This LG dishwasher comes jam-packed with features to improve the efficiency of your kitchen cleaning. For starters, its QuadWash technology ensures your dishes get clean by using four spray arms that rotate back and forth to power-clean your dishes instead of two.

It also come with an advanced three-stage filtration system. This system traps any food particles to reduce the noise of the machine and increase its efficiency. That means no more loud, unbearable appliances in your kitchen when you’re trying to relax or put the baby to sleep. And with a NeverRust dishwasher tub, plus a 10 Years Direct Drive Motor and tub warranty, even if damage leading to leaks happen, they’re backed by the brand.

GE® 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

 

This GE dishwasher in a stainless steel finish is built with power and efficiency in mind. Thanks to its built-in third rack, you can load more dishes at once, requiring fewer cycles for a large load of dishes. That extra space also includes four bottle wash jets which ensure a deep clean for narrow items, like water bottles, jars, vases, and more.

And with the addition of a water leak sensor, this machine also ensures the water stays on the inside of the machine, so you can say goodbye to doing research for “GE dishwasher leaking from bottom of door”. If any water is detected to leak, the machine will stop, protecting your home from any damage.

Frigidaire® 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

 

If your Frigidaire dishwasher is leaking, this quiet dishwasher is a perfect replacement for those who want a little peace and quiet, but still want the heavy-duty power of most modern dishwashers. Thanks to its built-in sound proofing technology, the machine runs at a low 55 dBAs.

But that doesn’t stop it from removing 99.9% of household bacteria with its sanitize cycle, nor does it prevent it from having multiple cleaning cycle options. That gives you the ability to run an energy-saver mode, a one-hour quick cycle, or a heavy wash for extra dirty loads.

Whirlpool® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

 

Shop This Whirlpool Dishwasher

This Whirlpool dishwasher is perfect for those who need a little extra space. Thanks to its third rack, you can fit up to 35% more dishes by using the rack to store large spoons, spatulas, and even small bowls.

The appliance also comes with an adjustable rack to help you accommodate even larger items, like pots and pans. This is especially helpful to stop you from overcrowding your appliance and prevent your Whirlpool dishwasher from leaking from the bottom of the door.

KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

 

Shop This KitchenAid Dishwasher

This KitchenAid dishwasher runs at an unbelievable 44 DBA. But that’s not where the advanced features stop. It also provides an advanced clean water wash system that uses microfiltration to remove food particles during the wash and rinse cycle.

It also includes a ProWash cycle that uses sensors to measure soil levels and adapt accordingly, changing the wash time and water temperature. That’s a great way to save on utility costs by only using the water and temperature you need to get the job done. It’s also a great way to stop your KitchenAid dishwasher from leaking from the bottom.

With the great prices and promotions available at Fred’s Appliance, dealing with a leaky dishwasher doesn’t have to be a reality. To explore more reliable dishwashers and learn expert advice on how to maintain a dishwasher, visit us online or in-store at one of our appliance showrooms near you in the inner Northwest.

FAQs

Why is my dishwasher leaking?

Your dishwasher might be leaking for several reasons, but one of the most common is a faulty door or gasket. Take a look at the door of your washing machine and check the condition of the gasket. If you don’t see any major issues, the issue might be more serious, and you should consult a repair specialist.

What’s the best dishwasher on the market?

There are a lot of excellent dishwashers on the market. Take a look at some of the ones mentioned in this article and the features they offer. But most importantly, the best dishwasher for your kitchen is the one that meets your cleaning needs. Talk to one of our appliance experts today to determine the brand and model that fits your demands.

Does my dishwasher need replacing?

When asking this question, it’s important to weigh the cost and benefit of repair vs. replacement. If your appliance is older and you feel this repair might just be temporary, it might be better to replace your dishwasher. However, if it’s newer, and the repair won’t cost more than a replacement, then repair might be the better option.

Why Trust Fred’s Appliance?

Fred's Appliance is the go-to store for all your appliance needs in the inland Northwest area. Established in 1962, Fred's Appliance has been serving customers for over five decades and counting. With an experienced and knowledgeable staff, Fred's provides a welcoming atmosphere that helps customers find the best product to fit their needs, budget, and lifestyle.

When you shop with Fred's Appliance, you can be sure that you're getting the best brands at the best prices. In our store, you will find a variety of refrigerators, ranges, wall ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, and more. We also carry washers and dryers in both front-load and top-load styles. Not only are we dedicated to providing an unbeatable selection of appliances, but we are equally committed to the local community. We proudly support many charitable organizations throughout Washington, Idaho, and Montana. When you shop at Fred's Appliance, you're not only getting a great product but helping out your neighbors too!

Shop Dishwashers at Fred’s Appliance

If you're looking for a great appliance shopping experience, shop dishwashers online or visit one of our showrooms in Washington, Idaho, or Montana to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced retailer makes. Our appliance experts will be happy to help you learn more about your dishwasher leaking from bottom. Contact us today and discover the perfect appliance for your home.

Learn More: Liquid vs Powder vs Pod Detergent: A Dishwasher Guide

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