Why is my fridge full of water?

Common causes & solutions

Opening your fridge to find pools of water can be frustrating and concerning. Not only can it spoil your food, but it also signals that something is amiss with your appliance. Understanding the potential causes and solutions can help you address the issue promptly and prevent further problems. Here, our experts explore common reasons why your fridge might be full of water and how to fix them.

1. Blocked defrost drain

One of the most common causes of water accumulation in your fridge is a blocked defrost drain. Modern refrigerators have a defrost mechanism to prevent ice build-up. During the defrost cycle, the melted water should drain out through a small tube. However, this tube can become clogged with food particles, debris, or ice, causing water to back up and pool at the bottom of the fridge.

Solution:

• Unplug your refrigerator.
• Locate the defrost drain, usually at the back of the fridge.
• Use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to flush out the drain. A small funnel or turkey baster can help direct the mixture into the drain.
• If the clog persists, gently use a pipe cleaner or a piece of flexible wire to clear the blockage.

2. Damaged door seals 

The rubber gaskets around your fridge door are crucial for maintaining a tight seal. If these seals are damaged, cracked, or worn out, warm air can enter the fridge, causing excess moisture and condensation inside the appliance.

Solution:

• Inspect the door seals for any signs of damage or wear.
• Clean the seals with a mixture of mild soap and water to remove any dirt or grime that might be preventing a proper seal.
• If the seals are damaged, they should be replaced. Door seals can usually be ordered from the manufacturer and easily installed.

3. Improper temperature settings

Setting your fridge to an inappropriate temperature can lead to condensation and water build-up. If the fridge is too warm, it won't be able to remove moisture effectively, leading to water pooling inside. 

Solution:

• Check the temperature settings. The ideal fridge temperature is around 3°C, and the freezer should be at -18°C.
• Adjust the settings accordingly and monitor the temperature for a few days to ensure it stays consistent.

4. Faulty water line

If your fridge has a built-in ice maker or water dispenser, a leak in the water supply line could be the culprit. This can lead to water pooling inside the fridge or underneath it.

Solution:

• Inspect the water line and connections for any signs of leaks or damage.
• Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged tubing if necessary.
• If you're not comfortable or don't feel confident enough doing this yourself, we recommend calling a professional technician to handle the repair.

5. Clogged condensation drain

Fridges typically have a condensation drain to manage moisture. If this drain becomes clogged, it can result in water pooling at the bottom of the fridge or even on your kitchen floor. 

Solution:

• Locate the condensation drain, usually found at the back or bottom of the fridge.
• Use a soft brush or a pipe cleaner to gently remove any blockages.
• Ensure the drain pan, where the water collects, is also clean and free from debris.

6. Improperly stored food

Sometimes, the way food is stored in the fridge can contribute to excess moisture. Covering all containers and ensuring food is properly wrapped can prevent moisture from escaping and accumulating in the fridge.

Solution:

• Use airtight containers for storing food.
• Ensure all items are covered and sealed to prevent excess moisture.
• Avoid overfilling the fridge, as proper air circulation is essential for efficient cooling and moisture control.

When to call a professional 

While many fridge water issues can be resolved with simple DIY fixes, some problems may require professional assistance. If you've tried the above solutions and your fridge is still accumulating water, it might be time to call in an expert.

At Go Assist, we offer fast and reliable appliance repair services, including fridge repairs. Our experienced engineers can quickly diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your fridge is back up and running in no time. Book your fridge repair online today or for more tips and advice, visit our FAQs page.