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Why is My Dryer Leaking Water and How to Fix It

Technically Reviewed by Oleg Chudnovski on Nov 11, 2025 | Written by Spark Service PRO Editorial Contributors

Seeing water in your dryer or underneath it can be both surprising and frustrating. But can a dryer leak water? Unfortunately, this is not uncommon and can be caused by various reasons. Our recommendation guide will teach you how to fix a tumble dryer that is leaking water. But please remember that before embarking on any repair endeavours, it's imperative to prioritize safety by unplugging the dryer and disconnecting it from its power source.

Clogged Dryer Vent

A key factor leading to a dryer vent dripping water is a blocked or obstructed vent line. Throughout the drying process, heated, humid air is released through the ventilation. However, if the line is hindered or twisted, the moisture may condense, resulting in liquid emerging from the appliance.

Look at these signs that indicate the problem:

• Clothes take longer to dry
• The dryer machine becomes excessively hot during the cycle
• Lint accumulates around the vent opening
• You can see the dryer leaking water from the door or other areas

Here is how you tackle this issue:

1. Detach the vent line from both the dryer and the exterior vent aperture.
2. Use a brush or a vacuum cleaner attachment to eliminate any lint and debris from within the line.
3. Inspect for any twists, compressed segments, or blockages in the line, and fix them if necessary.
4. Verify that the vent line is as brief and direct as feasible, with minimal curves or angles.

Once this is done, you can reattach the line to both the dryer and the exterior vent opening, ensuring a secure seal.

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Faulty Water Seals

How to fix a tumble dryer that leaks water? Typically, dryers have seals or gaskets to prevent water from entering the drum. However, as time passes, these seals may deteriorate, develop cracks, or dislodge, allowing water to seep from the appliance's door or other parts.

Here are our main indicators of this problem:

• Water underneath the dryer or on the floor around the appliance
• Visible cracks or damage to the seals
• Mould or mildew growth around the seals

Here is how to fix faulty water seals:

1. Find the water seals or gaskets around the drum and door zones.
2. Examine the seals for any cracks, rips, or signs of deterioration.
3. Ones with any kind of damage must be replaced.
4. Thoroughly clean the areas around the seal’s installation points to ensure the best possible fit.

Adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines when installing the new seals, ensuring a snug and steadfast placement.

Drain-related Issues

Some dryers, particularly those equipped with a condensation drying mechanism, feature a drain to get rid of excessive water in the dryer. Blocking this drain may result in water leakage from the dryer.

Keep an eye on these signs to recognize the problem:

• Water under the dryer or in the drain pan
• Slow or incomplete draining of water
• Musty odours coming from the dryer

You can fix it using the following method:

1. Find the drain line or drain pan at the base of the appliance.
2. Inspect the drain line for any apparent blockages or impediments and remove them with a drain snake or compressed air.
3. Thoroughly clean the drain pan, ensuring it is free from any debris.

If the issue persists, consider replacing the drain pump or other components associated with the drainage system.

Dryer Condensation Problems

At times, an excess of condensation accumulates within the dryer drum or its components, resulting in water leakage. In nine out of ten cases, the reason for this is either high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation in the room, or a defective heating element.

Here are the most common signs of this problem you need to watch out for:

• Excessive moisture or dampness inside the dryer drum
• Water coming out of the dryer during or after the cycle
• Rust or corrosion on the appliance components

You can fix it by following these actions:

1. Maintain adequate airflow within the laundry space where the dryer is located.
2. Install a dehumidifier or air conditioner to help lower humidity levels.
3. Check whether the dryer's heating element is working correctly and replace it if necessary.
4. Clean the moisture sensor and thermostat within the dryer to reduce the possibility of mistakenly appearing error codes.

Consider installing a purpose-specific drain kit or adjusting the dryer's ventilation to improve airflow and enhance moisture removal.

Preventive Maintenance for Your Appliances

Regular maintenance is crucial for minimizing the risk of your dryer leaking water from the door and extending its lifespan. Here is what you need to remember to do:

• Before each cycle, make sure to clean the lint trap to maintain optimal airflow.
• Every year, inspect and clean the vent line to remove dirt deposits and prevent clogging.
• Examine and replace water seals and gaskets as they wear off.
• Ensure the dryer is placed on a level surface and remains well-balanced to minimize vibration and load upon its components.

The manufacturer's manual provides essential guidance on the proper operation and upkeep of your particular dryer model.

Final Summary and Key Takeaways

The answer to the question, "Can a dryer leak water?" is yes. If the recommended measures fail to resolve the issue of water leakage from your dryer, seek assistance from a reputable appliance repair service. They will provide you with a custom-tailored solution based on thorough diagnostics.

Addressing the problem promptly is critical to avert additional water damage, mould, and potential electrical hazards. By recognizing the typical warning signs, you can prolong the service life of your appliance.