Samsung Dishwasher: leaking

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Samsung dishwasher is leaking, you may notice water escaping during operation or even when idle. Common leak sources include door seals, loose hoses, and internal components. Models may show LE/LC error codes indicating leakage detection. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure efficient operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Samsung Models

  • Samsung support notes LE/LC leakage error codes and recommends checking drain hose, leveling legs, and detergent drawer installation.

Possible Causes

Door gasket/pakking degradation or misalignment

How to Identify: Water around door edge or bottom of door; visible cracks, tears, or deformation of the door seal.

Part: Door gasket (seal)

Loose or damaged water supply or drain hoses and connections

How to Identify: Water pooling under unit or at back corners; hose connection points visibly wet; loose nuts.

Part: Supply hose, drain hose, hose fittings

Spray arm damage or misalignment causing overspray

How to Identify: Cracked spray arm, loose arm support causing water to spray toward door edges.

Part: Wash arms (upper/lower)

Improper leveling or installation

How to Identify: Dishwasher tilted or uneven; water pooling on one side.

Part: Mounting/leveling legs

Internal component failure (pump seal, tub crack)

How to Identify: Leaks from bottom not attributable to hoses or gaskets; continuous leak even when idle.

Part: Pump seal, tub assembly

DIY Solutions

Inspect and clean/replace door gasket

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, clean cloth, replacement gasket if needed
  1. Open dishwasher and inspect door gasket all around for cracks or debris.
  2. Clean gasket with damp cloth to remove buildup.
  3. If damaged, remove old gasket per manual and install new one ensuring snug fit.
  4. Test by running short cycle to check leak status.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dishwasher is off before working on gasket.

Tighten or replace loose hose connections

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: Wrench, bucket, towels
  1. Turn off water supply to dishwasher.
  2. Pull unit out slightly to access back.
  3. Check supply and drain hose connections at both unit and wall.
  4. Tighten loose nuts or replace hose if cracked.
  5. Push unit back and restore water supply, then test run.
⚠️ Safety First: Shut off water supply before work.

Check and secure spray arms

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: None or screwdriver
  1. Remove dish racks to access spray arms.
  2. Inspect arms for cracks or damage.
  3. Ensure arms rotate freely and mounting screws/tabs are secure.
  4. Replace damaged spray arm assembly if needed.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid inserting hands during operation.

Level the dishwasher

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Level tool, wrench
  1. Place a level on top of dishwasher door.
  2. Adjust leveling legs until unit is horizontal.
  3. Recheck seal contact and test run.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure unit is stably supported.

Professional Repairs

Replace pump seal or internal leak-prone components

Estimated Cost: $120 - $250

Tub or major internal component repair

Estimated Cost: $250 - $500+

When to Call a Professional

Leak persists after checking gaskets, hoses, and spray arm alignment
Leak from bottom not tied to external fittings
Visible cracks in tub or error codes LE/LC indicating leakage detection

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect and clean door gasket: Door seal leaks
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check hoses and connections: Hose connection leaks
    Frequency: quarterly
  • Ensure dishwasher remains level: Improper leveling related leaks
    Frequency: when moved or every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Dishwasher leaking?
Common causes include degraded door gaskets, loose hoses, and spray arm misalignment.
How do I fix Samsung Dishwasher leaking myself?
Inspect the door gasket, tighten hose connections, and ensure spray arms are secure.
How much does it cost to fix leaking?
Professional repairs for leaks range from $120 to $500+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for leaking?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the leak or if internal components are involved, it's best to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Door gasket failure (3 mentions)
  • Inlet valve leakage (1 mentions)
  • Drain line backflow (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replaced the inlet valve

    Success rate: 17.0%
  2. Fixed the high loop on the drain line

    Success rate: 17.0%

Community Discussions

inlet valve leaking

User followed a video tutorial to replace the inlet valve.

leaking when not in use

Fixed the high loop on the drain line to prevent backflow from the sink.

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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