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There's a Puddle of Water at My Pantry When My Washing Machine Drains & Overflows

    Washing Machine Drain Hose

    • Most washing machines have a drain hose that runs from the back of the machine to the main drain line. If this hose becomes kinked, or is squashed behind your machine, it can have difficulty draining water to the sewer line, which will cause water to flow back and spurt out at the site of the hose connection to the machine. A hose that has been kinked can often be weakened and prone to re-kinking. Replace the hose, and ensure the overflow has been remedied.

    Drain Clog

    • Washing machine drains can become clogged just like any other drain. Hair and other debris found in your clothes can make its way into the drainpipe and stop the flow of water. Use a plumber's snake or length of wire to ream out the drainpipe where it connects to your washing machine drain hose. Never use liquid clog remover in a washing machine drain as it can flow back into the machine and cause damage to internal mechanisms as well as future loads of laundry.

    Sewer Backup

    • If your washing machine is the lowest drain in your house, it may be overflowing due to a problem unrelated to your washing machine. If your drain is overflowing even when the machine is not being used, this is likely the case. Overflows from the sewer can be caused by a cracked sewer pipe or improperly draining storm drains. Contact your local municipality to find out how you can go about having your sewer line examined for issues.

    Leaking Seal

    • Washing machines have numerous small bushings and gaskets that work in concert to make the tub watertight. Over time, these rubber seals and gaskets can dry out and crack and cause water to leak into the machine and eventually out onto your pantry floor. Unplug your unit, and contact a licensed service center for the manufacturer of your washing machine.



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