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What Causes a Fridge to Leak Water?

Running into a puddle of water around your refrigerator is never a pleasant experience, especially if the source is unknown. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we…

May 05, 2026
What Causes a Fridge to Leak Water?

Running into a puddle of water around your refrigerator is never a pleasant experience, especially if the source is unknown. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have a lot of experience with leaking refrigerators and we are here to tell you that you should not stress. The cause of the clog is not always easy to find, but there are the usual suspects. These are some of the most common causes of a leaking fridge and how to fix them. If you would like the assistance of a local plumber, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing anytime. We are ready to help.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

What Causes a Fridge to Leak Water?

Blocked Defrost Drain

The defrost drain carries water produced during a defrost cycle to a pan at the bottom of the refrigerator where it evaporates. A blockage in the drain hose will cause melted condensation to leak on the floor. The tube itself might be located in a variety of places, so check your owner’s manual to find yours. 
Use a hair dryer on the low setting to melt any ice, then insert a screwdriver into the drain tube to clear out any remaining blockage. Fill a turkey baster with hot water and bleach, then flush the drain hole with the mixture. Finally, use a drain snake or pipe cleaner to clear out the blockage.

Cracked Drain Pan

The defrost drain mentioned earlier carries water to a pan at the bottom of the refrigerator. Normally, this water evaporates and there is never a reason to empty or clean it out. If the pan is cracked or damaged, however, then you are inevitably going to have water leak onto your floors.
The fix is simple. Pull out the drain pan and replace it if it is cracked or damaged. Your local hardware store should have some. Be sure to bring the old one so you pick the right replacement.

Water Line Leak

Who doesn’t like to get a cold glass of water from their refrigerator on demand? These refrigerators offer water because they are connected to a water line and it is that water line that might be the culprit. A loose or damaged water line can cause leaking in the rear of the fridge.
Try tightening the water line’s connection point. If the hose is pinched or leaking, then head out to find a replacement for the hose.

Open Fridge Door

Leaving your fridge door open will have the refrigerator working overtime to cool. The result will be a puddle of condensation around the fridge. Be sure to double check that the fridge door is shut. Clean the rubber seals with soap and water if it is not shutting like it should.

Fallen Ice

This one might sound silly, but it is valid. Many times, kids – and even adults – kick ice under the fridge rather than pick up. Once the ice melts, you have a wet floor. Fortunately, all you have to do in this case is clean up the mess and put up a sign telling everyone not to kick ice under the fridge! Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing now to schedule an experienced plumber in your area for any type of leak detection and repair services.
 

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