Dishwasher leaks are one of the more common problems you'll encounter in the kitchen. This is not a necessarily serious problem, however, this also depends on how you handle the issue. Dishwasher leaks can be caused by a wide range of issues. The cause of the problem will be an important factor in what you should do if you notice a leak. It's also important to know what not to do since you could make matters worse.

Stop the Dishwasher and Dry the Floor

It's not a good idea to continue using the dishwasher once you've noticed a leak. Even if the leak doesn't seem serious, it's an indicator that something in the dishwasher isn't right. Therefore, running it in this condition could be causing further damage.

If there's any water on the floor due to the leak, dry it as quickly as possible. The water can create a serious hazard that can cause serious injuries. The water can also seep beneath your floor or into anything wooden leading to further damage.

Try and Identify the Cause of the Problem

There are many reasons why a dishwasher might leak. Simply using too much detergent is enough to cause dishwashers to overflow. Unplug the dishwasher and try and identify the cause of the leak to establish how serious it is. If you've been using a new soap, don't forget to factor in this information.

The door gasket, the spray arm, the water level, and the inlet valve are all parts of the dishwasher that could be behind the leak. Carefully inspect these to see if there's evidence of leakage.

Perform Simple Repairs

There are simple repairs on your dishwasher that you can handle. For example, replacing the door gasket is not the most complicated task. You can also adjust the float height if this is the cause of the overflow. You may also need to change or tighten clamps and hoses.

Call a Repair Technician

Repairing a leaking dishwasher can also be a complicated task. Performing a task such as replacing a pump, for example, can be very challenging. However, even simple tasks such as tightening clamps can be difficult if you don't have the right tools.

If you suspect you're dealing with a fairly serious problem, it's a good idea to bring in a dishwasher repair expert. You should also do the same if the problem recurs after your own repairs.

Consider When a Replacement Is Needed

By consulting a professional, you'll also learn whether a replacement is needed over a repair. Some problems can't be fixed or will recur again, and in those cases, a brand new dishwasher is what you need. Thankfully, dishwashers keep getting more efficient and energy friendly all the time, so a new dishwasher can be a great investment that brings up the value and comfort of your home.

Contact a company, like Hudson Appliance Center, for further assistance.