Finding unexplained water puddles around your refrigerator can be frustrating, but this is a relatively common issue with several potential causes. Understanding what’s behind the leak is key to fixing it and preventing it from happening again.

1. Blocked Defrost Drain

One of the most frequent culprits is a clogged defrost drain. Modern refrigerators use an automatic defrost system, which melts ice and directs the resulting water through a drainpipe to an evaporation tray. However, food particles or grime can easily block this drain.

When that happens, the water backs up and leaks out of the fridge instead of draining away properly.

A simple solution is to flush the drain using a mix of warm water and baking soda. Use a turkey baster, pipette, or thin wire to clear the blockage and get the water flowing again.

2. Damaged or Dirty Door Seals

The door gaskets, or seals, help maintain the cold temperature inside your fridge by keeping warm, moist air out. When these seals become worn out or dirty, they no longer close tightly.

This lets warm air seep in, which leads to moisture buildup inside the fridge. The moisture then condenses and forms water that may eventually leak out.

To prevent this, check the seals regularly. Wipe them clean with mild soap and water, and replace them if they appear cracked, loose, or brittle.

3. Issues with the Drip Tray

Beneath your refrigerator is a drip tray, which is designed to collect and evaporate defrost water. Problems arise if this tray becomes cracked, shifted out of place, or overflows due to poor evaporation.

If water is pooling under your fridge, inspect the drip tray. Clean it out and reposition it correctly. If it’s damaged, replacing it is necessary to stop future leaks.

4. Improper Temperature Settings

Another possible cause is incorrect temperature control. If the refrigerator is set too cold, it may cause excessive frost buildup inside the unit. When this frost melts during the defrost cycle, it can produce more water than the system can manage.

To avoid this, keep your fridge temperature between 3°C and 5°C and your freezer at -18°C. This balance keeps your food fresh while preventing excess ice and water buildup.