Water At The Bottom Of The Fridge

What's happening?

Bosch says that water in the fridge usually comes from condensation that builds up on the rear interior wall and forms a puddle when the condensation channel or the drainage hole is blocked. The water leaves through that hole to a tray at the back of the appliance, so when the hole blocks the water pools at the bottom and can overflow. It does not mean the appliance is faulty, Bosch says, just that something can be done better. A fridge that is not level will also drain badly. Door seals that do not close, or a door left open, add moisture and ice that melts into puddles. A leak onto the floor from under the fridge is a related fault.

What usually causes it?

• A blocked condensation drain hole on the back wall, usually behind the salad drawers
• A fridge that is not level, so the water does not run to the drain
• A door seal that has gone, or a door that does not close, letting in warm, humid air
• A door left open for too long, causing ice that melts into water

Is it dangerous?

No. Water pooling inside is a nuisance, and water on the floor can be a slip risk and wets the area under the fridge. Switch the fridge off at the socket before cleaning around the back wall.

Can I fix it myself?

Take out the salad drawers and look low on the back wall for the drain hole. Clean it with a cloth and a moistened cotton bud, as Bosch describes, and soak up the water with a sponge. Wipe the interior with a food-safe cleaner. Check the fridge is level with a spirit level and adjust the feet. Test the door seal by closing a piece of paper in the door: if it slides out easily, the seal is not holding. If the hole is clear and it still leaks, or you cannot find it, see the manual.

When should you call an appliance repair engineer?

Call an appliance engineer when the drain hole is clear and the fridge still collects water, when ice is building up behind the back wall, when the water comes from underneath, or when the door seal needs replacing and you cannot do it.

What will the appliance repair engineer actually do?

• Find and clear the drain hole and check where the water goes
• Check the door seal and replace it if it does not hold
• Level the appliance and check the door alignment
• Check for ice build-up and where the water is coming from
• Test the cooling after the repair

Who fixes this

• Fridge and freezer repair

Questions people ask

Sources & References

1. Bosch: water in the bottom of the fridge
2. Bosch: fridge leaking water