Dishwasher leaks and runs out – what to do?

Dishwashers have become an indispensable part of many households. After all, they take over the tedious task of washing up, which can be a considerable relief, especially in families or for passionate cooks. However, if the dishwasher leaks and runs out, this can generate high costs and extensive effort. Therefore, quick action is required in these cases.

What are the possible causes when the dishwasher leaks?

Several causes come into question, which we would like to describe in more detail here:

Possible cause #1: Restricted closing mechanism

Even a small foreign object, such as the handle from a piece of cutlery or harder food debris, is enough to push the seal apart. If water leaks out of the side of the dishwasher under £400, the dishwasher program should be interrupted immediately and the frame of the door should be inspected for malfunctions.

If there are neither foreign bodies nor leaks or porosity, there may be a mechanical fault. This should be repaired by a specialist.

Also of interest: Dishwasher does not draw water – Possible causes & solutions

Possible cause #2: Incorrect connections

Connecting a dishwasher under £300 is, in itself, quite simple. However, leaks, improper sealing or a connection that is not tight enough can quickly cause problems. In these cases, the water leaks from behind and underneath the dishwasher.

Possible cause #3: Broken pump

When a pump or multiple pumps stop working properly, the dishwasher can overflow, for example. A typical indication of this is that the water is leaking at the bottom and the machine is only leaking in one place.

Potential causes for this can be found in, for example:

• clogged, clogged filters
• kinked or leaking waste water hose
• Foreign objects that have become trapped in lines

Potential Cause #4: Problems at the water pockets

Condensation accumulates in the water pockets. If the water pockets or drain are defective, they can leak or overflow.

Characteristically, the water does not foam and is clear. It only has a slight odor or none at all. In addition, it leaks from the side.

Also of interest: Dishwasher Functions & Features

Possible cause #5: Damage to the gaskets

Seals are found in various places in the dishwasher under £500. Connections, door and pump have transitions that are sealed with them. The rubber can become porous and tear over time. Whole pieces can come off of it.

Likewise, the seal can lose elasticity and thus no longer seal properly. Especially if descaling is not carried out or unsuitable agents are used, the seals are quickly damaged. The result: a leaky dishwasher.

Possible cause #6: Sensor defect

The sensors in the machine detect and determine how much water to dispense and where. If they are defective, there may be an excess of liquid.

If no other reason can be found for the dishwasher to leak, the sensors are a possible cause. The appliance then literally overflows, which can generate high costs on several levels at once. For example, there may be considerable water damage, the electronics may require a lot of repair work, and the dishwasher itself may be completely destroyed.

It is therefore important that the dishwasher is checked by a specialist as quickly as possible if water leaks without an apparent cause.

Also of interest: How to connect the dishwasher – A guide

Possible cause #7: Leaky pipes and hoses

Over time, most materials become brittle. This is also true of gaskets, pipes and hinges. The more often unsuitable or aggressive agents are used, the faster the process.

Possible cause #8: Leaky siphon

This problem can be remedied comparatively quickly. A siphon is cheap to buy and easy to replace. However, inferior materials also break or show holes comparatively quickly. Unless cleaning is enough to fix the problem, connections and subsequent elements should be checked and replaced if necessary.

Possible cause #9: Clogged filter

A clogged filter can be easily avoided by regular cleanings. Checks should be made very frequently, depending on how the dishwasher is used and how the dishes are prepared. For example, if plates are not thoroughly cleaned before being set, or if there is residue on the cutlery, over time it can settle in the filter and clog the dishwasher.

A check is of course necessary more often if the dishwasher is used daily or if dishes and cutlery with adhering residues are placed in the appliance. Lack of descaling the dishwasher and improper storage can also contribute to the filters clogging more quickly and therefore needing to be checked and cleaned more frequently as well.

Also of interest: Water damage caused by the dishwasher: What to watch out for.

Possible cause #10: Full bottom tray

The bottom tub of the dishwasher, just like the washing machine, serves to catch excess water. This can occur, for example, if too much dishwashing liquid has been used. The foam accumulates in the containers and triggers a reaction in the sensors. This in turn can paralyze the dishwasher until it dries.

How can a leaking dishwasher be prevented?

Checks and cleaning are critical to the continued operation of the dishwasher. In addition, amateurs are better off relying on professionals when it comes to connections. Even if the cause of a leaking dishwasher is unclear, it is easier and safer to seek professional help after a comprehensive visual inspection.

In addition, homeowner’s and liability insurance should be taken out in any case. This is especially true if it is a rental property.