Why Is My Fridge Leaking Water?

Description:
Discover the common causes of fridge water leaks and how Refitec can help with repairs. Serving Karen, Runda, Westlands, Kilimani, Thika Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way and across Nairobi. Call us today!

Why Is My Fridge Leaking Water? – A Refitec Guide

Water leaking from your refrigerator is more than just a nasty mess—it can indicate problems that, if ignored, may damage the fridge, your flooring, or even lead to electrical hazards. Refitec has serviced homes in Karen, Runda, Westlands, Kilimani, along Thika Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, and many other estates across Nairobi, seeing all kinds of fridge leaks. In this guide, we explore what causes those leaks, how to identify them, and what you should do to fix them.

Common Causes of Fridge Leaks

Here are some of the most frequent reasons a fridge may be leaking water:

1. Blocked or Frozen Defrost Drain

In many fridge models, there is a drain that channels water from the defrost cycle to a drip pan. When that drain becomes clogged with food debris, ice, or dust, water can back up and leak inside the main fridge compartment or drip down the front.

2. Damaged or Misaligned Door Gasket (Seal)

If the rubber seal around the door is worn, torn, or not sealing tightly, warm air can get in. That causes extra condensation inside the fridge, which then turns into water that pools or leaks out.

3. Leaky or Damaged Water Supply Line

Fridges with built-in ice makers or water dispensers have supply lines. Over time, these lines can develop leaks—at joints, connections, or from cracks in the hose itself. If that happens, water will drip beneath or behind the fridge.

4. Cracked or Overflowing Drain Pan

Under your fridge is a drain pan (sometimes called a drip pan) that collects water from the defrost or condensation. If that pan is cracked, improperly placed, or overfilled because evaporation is blocked, water may overflow onto the floor.

5. Improper Leveling

If the fridge is not sitting properly—if it’s tilted forward, backward, or side to side—water may not drain correctly from freezer or fridge compartments. Even internal water lines may not flow correctly.

6. Excessive Frost Buildup

When frost builds up excessively (for example, due to a malfunctioning defrost system or frequent door opening), it can block drains or trap water which, when melted, can leak inside.

7. High Humidity & Condensation

In humid environments or in homes where the kitchen is quite steamy, every time the fridge door opens, warm, moist air gets in. That extra moisture can condense inside and lead to leaks. Additionally, if seals are poor, more moisture gets in. Fast and Reliable Fridge Repair Services in Nairobi – Refitec | 0704843613

How to Identify the Source of the Leak

To fix a problem, you first need to locate where the water is coming from:

• Is the water pooling inside the fridge (back wall, shelves, under produce drawers)?
• Is it dripping behind the unit?
• Is the water only appearing when you use the ice maker or water dispenser?
• Does the leak happen continuously, or only in certain cycles (like after defrost)?

By observing carefully, you can narrow down whether the issue is with a clogged drain, supply line, or something else.

Repair & Maintenance Tips from Refitec

For residents in estates like Karen, Runda, Lavington, Kilimani, Kileleshwa, or along Thika Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, Lang’ata Road, here are recommended fixes and maintenance steps:

• Clean the defrost drain: Locate the drain hole (often at the back inside the fridge/freezer), flush it with warm water, or gently push a pipe cleaner through to clear ice or debris.
• Inspect & replace seals: Check the door gasket. If it doesn’t seal tightly (you can test using a piece of paper—close the door on it, try to pull it out), then consider cleaning or replacing the seal.
• Check water supply lines: Look behind the fridge. Tighten loose connections. If the line shows signs of wear or cracking, replace it.
• Level the fridge: Use a spirit level. Adjust the front or back feet so that the fridge tilts slightly back (front a little higher) if required per manufacturer instructions.
• Inspect the drain pan: Pull out the pan (after unplugging the fridge). Check for cracks. Clean it. Ensure that it is placed correctly under the fridge and that there’s space underneath for evaporation.
• Defrost regularly if frost is building up. Sometimes just turning off the fridge for or opening freezer doors to thaw can help eliminate blockages.
• Reduce humidity: Keep kitchen ventilation good. Avoid leaving fridge doors open. Consider using a dehumidifier or exhaust fan if the kitchen environment is very moist.

When to Call Refitec

If after trying the above steps the fridge is still leaking, or if:

• You smell refrigerant (which indicates a serious leak)
• The leak is large, continuous, or coming from internal sealed components
• The water damage has started affecting flooring, cabinetry, or wiring

That’s when you should call us at Refitec. We serve across major roads and estates in Nairobi—be it along Thika Road, Waiyaki Way, Mombasa Road, Lang’ata Road, or within estates like Westlands, Karen, Runda, Lavington, Kileleshwa, Kilimani. We’ll diagnose and fix the issue properly, with parts guarantee and expert service.

Preventive Measures & Best Practices

To avoid fridge leaks in the future:

• Perform regular inspections (every few months) of the drain, supply line, and seals.
• Don’t overload the freezer or fridge such that airflow is blocked.
• Clean coils and back panels periodically—dust and debris may interfere with draining or cooling.
• Keep the appliance level—if moved, always re-check level.
• Maintain proper temperature settings: very low temps in the freezer can cause excess ice; very warm temps may cause more condensation.

Refitec’s Promise to Nairobi

At Refitec, we believe appliance maintenance should be worry-free. Whether your home is in Karen Hills, Runda Estate, Westlands, Roysambu, Embakasi, South B, or along Outer Ring Road, Northern Bypass, Eastern Bypass, we respond quickly. Our technicians have seen nearly every kind of leak scenario, giving us experience in diagnosing issues precisely, fixing them with quality parts, and giving maintenance advice so it doesn’t happen again.

If you’re dealing with a fridge that’s leaking water, don’t wait until the damage spreads. Contact Refitec today for an inspection—save your food, your floor, and your peace of mind.