Although professional services are sometimes required, when your Fridge leaks, a DIY repair may solve the problem. The following is a method to determine the source of fridge leakage and the correct solution.
1-The fridge water pipe is leaking
The water pipe of the fridge is a long and thin flexible pipe connected to your home water supply system to provide water to the fridge as needed. If your GE fridge is leaking on the floor in front of the appliance, the wiring may be loose or damaged.
To check the water pipe, remove the kick plate at the bottom of the fridge. Make sure that the pipeline is firmly installed in the inlet valve and tighten it if necessary. If the water pipe has holes or tears, the water pipe must be replaced by a professional to prevent leakage.
2-Leaking water filter
Water filter problems are some of the most common causes of water leaks in GE fridges. The filter filters out contaminants in the household water supply before they reach the water dispenser and/or ice maker. If you find that your GE fridge is leaking from the water dispenser or filter housing, it may be a filter problem.
The following filter problems can lead to fridge leaks:
Filter is clogged: Over time, the filter can become clogged with contaminants, resulting in leaks. Changing the filter every 6 months can prevent clogs. You may need to change it more often if ice cubes taste bad or dispensed water has a strange smell.
Incorrect installation: A filter that’s installed incorrectly can cause leaks inside the filter housing. Refer to your user manual for the right installation instructions for your model fridge.
Damaged filter: Inspect the filter for signs of damage, like cracks in the filter head or missing O-rings. A damaged filter must be replaced.
Wrong filter installed: For proper fit and function, GE recommends using an OEM filter every time it’s replaced. Generic filters may not fit or work properly, resulting in leaks.
3 – Water Inlet Valve is Leaking
A fridge’s water inlet valve opens and closes, allowing water to flow through the water line from your home supply, as needed. Leaks can occur at the valve if a component is damaged or malfunctions, resulting in fridge water dripping on the floor behind the fridge.
To inspect the water inlet valve, turn off the fridge’s power and move it away from the wall. The valve can be accessed by removing the fridge’s rear panel. If the valve has cracks or holes or fails multimeter testing with a lack of continuity, it requires professional replacement.
4 – Clogged GE Fridge Defrost Drain
The defrost drain transports any residual water from the fridge’s defrost system to the drain pan under the fridge. It often runs behind the fridge’s rear interior wall and into the freezer. Given this location, lingering water droplets can freeze inside the drain and cause blockages resulting in leaks. If you notice your fridge leaking inside the freezer under the bottom basket, the defrost drain may be clogged.
Here’s how to unclog a GE fridge defrost drain:
Mix a solution of 2 cups hot tap water mixed with 1 Tbsp baking soda.
Empty the freezer and locate the drain on the center of the rear wall. On some models, you may need to unscrew a rear freezer panel to access the drain.
Use a turkey baster to flush the drain with the solution.
The sound of water running into the drain pan indicates that the clog is cleared.
5 – Water Coming from Drain Pan
If you still find that your GE fridge leaks water, it’s possible that the drain pan is the source. This pan collects residual water from the fridge’s defrost system, where it eventually evaporates. However, if the pan has a hole or is cracked, water may leak out the bottom of the fridge before it evaporates.
Most drain pans can be accessed by moving the fridge away from the wall and removing its rear panel. If the drain pan is damaged, it should be replaced. However, if the drain pan isn’t damaged and your fridge won’t cool properly, a defrost system failure can cause leaks and cooling issues. In this case, the fridge should be professionally assessed.
The team at Aviv Service Today can stop leaks to restore your fridge’s function. Schedule your expert fridge service today!