Fridge Water Line Leaking in Your Chicago Home? Here’s What to Do

A leaking fridge water line might seem minor at first, but in Chicago homes and apartments, it can quickly lead to warped floors, hidden mold, and even electrical damage.

At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we have provided water damage restoration services to local residents for over 30 years.

This step-by-step guide can help you stop the leak, prevent further damage, and know when to call in the pros.

Before You Get Started: Safety Tips

• Unplug the refrigerator to eliminate any risk of electrical shock.
• Shut off the water supply, typically located behind the fridge or under the sink, to prevent more water from leaking out.
• Soak up standing water using towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Be sure to pull the fridge forward and check underneath for hidden puddles.
• Call a water damage restoration professional in Chicago, like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, if you suspect water damage caused by the leak.

How to Fix a Leaking Fridge Water Line: Causes & Fixes

Water Supply Line (Most Common)

Cause: The plastic or copper water line behind your fridge can crack, kink, or loosen over time.

Fix: Replace old or damaged tubing with new plastic or braided steel line. Tighten or reseal loose compression fittings to stop the leak.

Water Inlet Valve

Cause: The valve that connects the water supply line to your fridge can become corroded, cracked, or fail internally.

Fix: Inspect the valve near the back of the fridge for rust or moisture. If it’s leaking or not working properly, replace it with a new one designed for your refrigerator model.

Ice Maker Line

Cause: The flexible tubing running from the valve to the ice maker may crack or come loose.

Fix: Examine all internal connections and tubing. Replace worn or brittle tubing and confirm everything is snugly connected.

Filter Housing or Connections

Cause: A misaligned or cracked water filter or its housing can cause internal leaks.

Fix: Remove and reinstall the water filter to ensure a proper fit. If the leak continues, inspect the housing for cracks and replace the filter or housing if needed.

Drain Pan Overflow

Cause: Water from condensation may overflow if the drain pan is out of place or your fridge isn’t level.

Fix: Empty and reposition the drain pan. Check the fridge with a bubble level and adjust the feet until it sits evenly on the floor.

Next Step: Once you’ve addressed the source of the leak and made the necessary repairs, reconnect the water line, plug the fridge back in, and watch for any new leaks over the next 24 hours.

What to Do If the Leak Caused Water Damage

Even a small fridge leak can spread under the flooring or behind baseboards.

Here’s what to do next.

1. Dry the Area Thoroughly

• Set up fans and a dehumidifier near the leak.
• Open windows to improve airflow if the weather allows.
• Check under and behind nearby cabinets or appliances.

2. Inspect for Hidden Damage

Look for:

• Warped floorboards
• Soft drywall or baseboards
• Musty smells or visible mold
• Stains or bubbling paint

If you spot any of these, the damage has likely spread beyond the surface, and it’s time to call water damage restoration pros.

3. Call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore

At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we specialize in water damage cleanup and restoration in Chicago, from Gold Coast condos to West Loop townhomes.

Call us for emergency restoration services: (312) 707-8597

Whether the water seeped into hardwood flooring, drywall, or cabinetry, our team will:

• Extract moisture from hard-to-reach areas
• Prevent mold growth with safe antimicrobial treatments
• Repair or remove damaged structural materials
• Work directly with your insurance provider

How We Restored an Albany Park Apartment After a Fridge Leak From Upstairs

In an Albany Park apartment, a leaking fridge water line from the upstairs unit caused Category 2, Class 2 water damage across the kitchen, hallway, and bathroom.

• Our team removed sections of drywall and ceiling to access and eliminate hidden moisture.
• We also detached cabinets and vent covers to reach affected areas, then cleaned and sanitized every surface.
• We installed air movers and a dehumidifier to dry the space thoroughly and prevent mold growth.

Thanks to our fast response and containment efforts, we minimized disruption for the tenant and restored the home safely and efficiently.

Turn to ServiceMaster of Lake Shore to Restore Your Property

A leaking fridge line can quickly lead to soaked floors and damaged drywall.

If you can’t stop the leak or see signs of water damage, call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore today.

We handle cleanup and restoration in neighborhoods like Albany Park, Lakeview, Old Town, West Loop, and beyond.

Call us today to learn more about our services and how we can help: (312) 707-8597.