Washer Leaking from the Bottom in Your Chicago Home? Here’s How to Fix It

A washing machine leak might start small, but if ignored, it can soak your floors, cause mold, and even damage wiring or drywall.

And when your washer is leaking from the bottom, it’s usually a sign that something needs attention now.

At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we’ve cleaned up flooded laundry rooms across many Chicago homes.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix it before the damage spreads.

First, Look for These Signs

If your washer is leaking from the bottom, watch for:

• Water pooling underneath the machine
• Dirty water during or after a wash cycle
• Damp or warped flooring around the washer
• Musty or moldy smells in the laundry area
• Water stains or bubbling paint near the baseboards

If you notice any of these, your washer likely has a leak, and it’s time to troubleshoot.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Washer Leaking from the Bottom

Step 1: Watch When and Where the Leak Happens

Start by observing your washer while it runs a small load. This helps you figure out the cause.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Leak during the fill cycle
  • What to look for: Water starts pooling before the drum spins.
  • Possible cause: A cracked tub seal or broken water level switch.
  • Tip: You may also hear the washer overfilling or see water seeping out underneath early in the cycle.
• Leak during the spin or agitation cycle
  • What to look for: Water splashing or dripping only while the drum is spinning.
  • Possible cause: An unbalanced washer, loose or cracked drain hose, faulty pump, or tub gasket.
  • Tip: You may hear rattling or see water dripping from the back or sides.
• Leak during the drain cycle
  • What to look for: Water appears after the wash is done and the machine is draining.
  • Possible cause: Loose or damaged drain clamp, cracked hose, or a clogged or broken drain pump.
  • Tip: Water may pool near the back or base of the washer.
• Leak continues after the cycle ends
  • What to look for: A small puddle forming long after the load finishes.
  • Possible cause: A slow drip from the inlet valve, cracked hose, or rusted tub.
  • Tip: Try drying the area under the washer, waiting 30 minutes, and checking again.

Step 2: Take Safety Precautions

Once you’ve observed the leak:

• Unplug the washer
• Turn off the water supply valves
• Place towels or a bucket to collect any dripping water
• Wear rubber-soled shoes if the floor is wet
• Use a flashlight to inspect safely without touching anything electrical

Pro Tip: If you’re in a high-rise or multi-unit building in Chicago, let your building management know right away. Leaks can affect units below.

Step 3: Find the Source of the Leak

Now that it’s safe to work, start inspecting common leak points:

Hoses (Fill and Drain)

• How to spot it: Check for wet spots around hose connections at the back of the washer.
• Fix: Tighten any loose fittings. Replace any hoses that are cracked or kinked.

Drain Pump

• How to spot it: Leaks from underneath during or after draining, with rattling or humming sounds.
• Fix: Check for blockages or cracks. Clean if clogged; replace if damaged.

Tub Seal (Bottom of Drum)

• How to spot it: Water leaking from the center bottom of the drum during filling.
• Fix: This is a complex repair that usually requires a professional appliance repair technician.

Water Inlet Valve

• How to spot it: Drips near the top back of the washer, especially after the cycle ends.
• Fix: Inspect for corrosion or cracks. Replace the valve if it’s leaking.

Door Gasket (Front-loaders)

• How to spot it: Water seeping from the door or pooling in the gasket fold.
• Fix: Clean the gasket thoroughly. Replace it if it’s torn or warped.

Overflow or Detergent Dispenser

• How to spot it: Water spills from the top during washing.
• Fix: Use the correct detergent amount. Excess suds can cause internal clogs.

Step 4: Fix the Problem (or Call a Pro)

• Minor fixes like hose or clamp replacement can often be done with simple tools.
• If you see internal damage, unfamiliar parts, ongoing leaks, or if you are not confident about your DIY skills, call a licensed appliance technician.

Step 5: Cleanup and Access the Water Damage

Once the leak is stopped, act quickly to prevent long-term damage:

• Soak up standing water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum
• Use fans or a dehumidifier to dry the area
• Open windows if the weather permits
• Check nearby flooring, baseboards, and walls for signs of hidden moisture
• Look out for musty odors, warping, or soft drywall
• If you spot damage, call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore for a professional water damage cleanup and restoration: (312) 707-8597

Tip: Take photos of the damage before cleanup so you have proof for insurance claims.

Step 6: Contact Your Insurance Company

If the leak caused damage to your floors, walls, or surrounding areas, especially in a multi-level home or shared building, it’s smart to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance.

• Document everything with photos and notes
• Keep receipts for any professional services or repairs
• Contact your insurance provider and explain what happened
• Ask if the damage is covered under your policy
• If applicable, schedule an adjuster inspection

ServiceMaster of Lake Shore can help document the damage, work directly with your insurance company, and guide you through the claims process to make it easier.

Case Study: Washer Leak in a Glenview Home

In a Glenview home, a washer/dryer combo on the second floor leaked and caused Category 2, Class 2 water damage across all three levels.

Upstairs, we removed drywall, flooring, and baseboards in several rooms, including the laundry area, hallway, and a bedroom. After cleaning and sanitizing, we set up drying equipment to address moisture throughout the space.

On the first floor, water damaged the kitchen, dining room, and pantry. We removed sections of ceiling, cabinetry, and insulation, then used a combination of air movers, dehumidifiers, and floor drying mats to speed up the drying process.

In the basement, we opened part of the ceiling under the kitchen, removed insulation, and dried a small area of wet carpet.

With the right containment and equipment, we completed full structural drying in just four days.

Need Help After a Washer Leak in Chicago?

If your washing machine leak has turned into a water damage issue, don’t wait. Even a few gallons of water can soak into your floors or drywall and lead to costly repairs.

Our team at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore handles water damage cleanup every day, helping Chicago homeowners recover quickly and safely.

We are serving all Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs, including Lincoln Park, West Loop, Lakeview, Gold Coast, and beyond.

Call us at (312) 707-8597 or request help online.

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