So:

You’ve just walked into your laundry room to the repulsive sight of your Whirlpool washer discharging water all over the floor. You probably just walked right back out the door.

But:

Your washer won’t fix itself, will it? Sooner or later, you’re going to need to attend to your leaking washer.

Don’t worry; we will guide you every step of the way.

Look:

It is quite common for Whirlpool washers to leak from the bottom. This problem has affected way more users than you’d expect.

After careful research:

We have composed this helpful troubleshooting guide to help Whirlpool washer users like you, who unfortunately have to deal with a leaking washer.

Here is what to do when your Whirlpool washer leaks from the bottom.

Whirlpool Washer Is Leaking From The Bottom

Your Whirlpool washer may leak from the bottom for various reasons. Thankfully, this issue is relatively simple to troubleshoot. You can solve it by replacing a faulty drain pump, door seal, pressure switch, motor coupling, or outer wash tub. Also, unclogging your Whirlpool washer water inlet valve, drain pump filter, and drain hose should help.

1. Replace the Defective Drain Pump

Sadly:

A defective drain pump could cause a leak under your Whirlpool washer.

The drain pump is a fundamental machine part responsible for draining water from the washer tub through the drain hose.

Usually:

After some years of use, your Whirlpool washer drain pump may develop faults often due to poor maintenance, causing the washer to leak.

Hence:

If you discover some water seeping out from underneath your Whirlpool washer, you should check for defects in the drain pump.

In some cases:

There is an obvious crack in the pump’s structure; otherwise, you may have to test the pump with a multimeter.

Here’s how to go about it:

• Step 1: Disconnect your machine from the power outlet.
• Step 2: Unscrew the access panel of your washer with a Phillips screwdriver.
• Step 3: Check the pump for clogged debris and clean it thoroughly.
• Step 4: Once you’re certain it is not a clog affecting the pump, test its connectors with a multimeter for electrical functionality.
• Step 5: Remove the drain pump from the machine.
• Step 6: Replace it with a new drain pump (or call a technician to help)
• Step 7: Screw your washer’s cover back on, then run a test cycle to ensure the pump is functional.

Note:

You can purchase the replacement pump from any online store, but you’ll be more comfortable getting it from Whirlpool for credibility. Contact Whirlpool Support to make inquiries on replacement parts.

2. Unclog the Drain Hose and Drain Pump Filter

Now:

If you’ve checked your drain pump for defects and found none, you should consider checking the drain pump filter and hose.

From our research, we’ve discovered that a faulty or clogged drain hose is a very common cause of a leaking Whirlpool washer.

Also:

When the drain pump filter accumulates debris and gunk, it gets clogged, causing an overflow of water that cannot pass through.

When this happens, you’ll likely find your washer standing in a puddle of water.

So what do you do?

You’ll need to replace the drain hose if you notice any holes or clear out debris clogging it with a pressure washer.

Also:

The hose could form kinks that cause blockages to the water flow; straighten or shorten the hose to unwind the kinks.

Follow these steps to unclog the drain pump filter:

• Step 1: Pull the handle of the dispenser drawer at the base of your washer to open it.
• Step 2: Locate the drain pump filter and release the tabs on each side.
• Step 3: Detach the drain pump filter from your washer.
• Step 4: Scoop out the collected lint, debris, and gunk, then clean the filter thoroughly.
• Step 5: Put everything back in place.

Remember:

Always power off and unplug your Whirlpool washer before handling its internal components to avoid accidents.

One more thing:

Your drain hose might be flawless and the filter squeaky clean, but your machine may still be leaking from the bottom.

In this case, the problem is probably with the connection, and you should ensure that the hose is properly attached to your washer.

3. Change the Damaged Door Seal

Look:

If your Whirlpool washer leaks from the bottom, it may be due to a damaged door seal.

The door seal is a rubber fixture attached to the door that prevents water from spilling out during a cycle.

You see:

Your Whirlpool washer door seal may have ripped or slackened over time because of how often the door is used.

A faulty door seal will allow water to dribble down, so you should replace it immediately after you detect signs of damage.

As such:

Especially as a front-load Whirlpool washer user, you should pay attention to the state of your door seal and clean your machine regularly.

Why?

Cleaning your machine is important because a dirty or clogged seal will affect your washer’s ability to shut tightly.

You’ll be left with a sorry mess after you run a cycle, and the water drips out of the tub onto the floor.

So:

Wipe down your Whirlpool washer with a damp cloth and remove any foreign objects or stuck fabric that might be obstructing the door seal.

Then:

Purchase a replacement rubber door seal and fix it into your Whirlpool washer door if damaged.

You can either call a maintenance specialist for assistance or take a risk and do it yourself; the choice is yours!

4. Replace the Broken Motor Coupling

Listen:

Your Whirlpool washer is likely leaking from the bottom because the washing machine motor coupling is broken.

The motor coupling is responsible for the connection between the motor shaft and the direct-drive transmission.

You see:

It is made with plastic parts joined by a rubber isolator and is designed to break to protect the drive motor from damage.

When the drive system seizes and the motor coupling breaks as planned, it could cause your washer to leak from the bottom.

On that note:

If your Whirlpool washer is pooling water at the base, check if the motor coupling is broken and replace it immediately.

If you leave your leaking washer for too long, it could result in more severe complications.

Follow these instructions to replace the ruptured motor coupling:

• Step 1: Unplug your washer from the wall socket.
• Step 2: Unscrew the access panel and the screws holding the motor retainer.
• Step 3: Inspect the motor coupling for damage.
• Step 4: If damaged, remove it and install a new motor coupling.
• Step 5: Reassemble your Whirlpool washer.

Now:

If you are not conversant with technical repairs, it would be best to call a skilled technician to handle this replacement.

You can also reach out to Whirlpool Customer Support for the necessary assistance. 

5. Check for Leaks in the Outer Washer Tub

Get this:

If your Whirlpool washer leaks from the bottom, it could mean a problem with the outer washer tub.

The outer tub supports the inner tub, holding water and wash loads during a wash cycle.

Now:

This tub may develop cracks, holes, rust, and other impairments from the effects of wear and tear.

You can check to see if the outer tub is the culprit by filling the machine with water and inspecting the tub for leaks.

Of course:

The next step is to troubleshoot once you’ve confirmed the source of the issue.

Relax, it’s not rocket science!

Simply replace the worn-out outer washer tub or call a professional technician for assistance if you cannot install it yourself.

Remember:

If you’ve been using your Whirlpool washer for no more than a year, you can get a free replacement from Whirlpool.

6. Change the Faulty Pressure Switch

Now:

A faulty pressure switch might be why your Whirlpool washer spills water from underneath. The pressure switch is also known as the water level switch, and you can probably derive its function from its name.

You guessed right!

It measures the water level in your Whirlpool washer and automatically stops the machine from adding more water when the limit is reached.

In essence:

This core part serves as an overflow protection device, so it should not surprise you that your washer leaks when it’s defective.

This defect could occur if the sensor malfunctions and doesn’t detect excessive water levels or if the wiring is poorly connected.

Do this when the pressure switch is malfunctioning:

• Step 1: Unscrew your washer’s access panel with a Phillip screwdriver.
• Step 2: Locate the pressure switch.
• Step 3: Carefully inspect the pressure switch and circuit board for cracks or detectable damage.
• Step 4: Use an adjustable or crescent wrench to detach the pressure switch.
• Step 5: Replace it with a new, functional part.
• Step 6: Screw the access panel back on and run a test cycle to ensure the new pressure switch works properly.

As usual:

You can always get help from more technically inclined agents, such as a qualified technician or Whirlpool Customer Support.

Also:

Ensure that you always unplug your Whirlpool washer from the power source before fiddling with its internal components.

7. Unclog or Replace the Defective Water Inlet Valve

Here’s the gist:

Your Whirlpool washer is probably leaking from the bottom because the water inlet valve is faulty or clogged.

Wonder how your Whirlpool washer suddenly gets filled with water at the push of a button?

Well:

The water inlet valve is tasked with transporting water into the machine, contrasting with the drain pump, which moves water out.

The valve must support the water’s weight, or it could get compromised and cause leakage.

Also:

If there is a limescale build-up, common among most devices that run with water, leakage is bound to happen.

Debris on the valve screens could interfere with the proper operation and lead to water overflow.

Here’s what to do:

• Step 1: Test your Whirlpool washer water inlet valve with a multimeter for continuity.
• Step 2: Replace the water inlet valve if it is defective or if it cannot support the water’s weight.
• Step 3: Clean out debris and build-up of dirt from the valve screens and install an inline flow filter to prevent future clogs.
• Step 4: Run a test cycle to ensure the problem is solved.

Certainly:

Your Whirlpool washer should stop leaking from underneath after unclogging or replacing the water inlet valve.

You can ring a reliable technician to help you with the replacements if that isn’t your forte.

Models Most Affected

Fact:

Many washers can be affected by some malfunction that would cause them to leak from the bottom, not excluding Whirlpool washers.

Luckily:

You can easily fix these malfunctions with the solutions provided in this article.

In any case:

These specific Whirlpool washer models are the most prone to this irritating problem.

1. Whirlpool Cabrio Top Load Washer

Get this:

The Whirlpool Cabrio is a large-capacity top-load washer with several cycle options and intuitive controls for a customized and easy-to-use wash experience.

The washer features a Colorlast and Presoak option to give your clothes the necessary care and retain their vibrance.

Now:

This Whirlpool washer model has received a lot of criticism for its susceptibility to leakage.

2. Whirlpool Duet Steam Front Load Washer

Look:

The Whirlpool Duet Steam Front Load washer is a high-efficiency, large-capacity, stylish washer that provides a convenient and thorough wash for your clothes.

Now:

This washer is designed with powerful and effective cleaning technology and gets through the toughest stains and bulkiest loads in little time.

But:

This model has a high rate of user complaints about multiple malfunctions, including leakage from underneath the unit.

3. Whirlpool Ultimate Care

Here’s the thing:

The Whirlpool Ultimate Care is a super-capacity washer with a large stainless steel wash basket and a powerful agitator.

This flexible washer is equipped to adapt to huge loads to save time, money, and energy with easy-to-use controls.

But:

This Whirlpool washer often suffers malfunctions that cause it to leak from the bottom, creating a mess that is a pain to clean.

4. Whirlpool Stackable

You can:

Save space with the Whirlpool Stackable featuring a combination of a washer and dryer stacked in one electrical appliance.

The large-capacity washer dispenses fabric softener during a wash cycle, and the dryer accurately detects when clothes are dry and ends the cycle. 

Sadly:

This Whirlpool washer model frequently leaks from the bottom but can be troubleshot conveniently with the recommendations in this article.

Conclusion

No:

You cannot just throw out your Whirlpool washer because it leaks from the bottom (unless it is more than ten years old.)

We know that it can be extremely irritating when your washer develops faults, but you need to be patient with it.

On that account:

If your Whirlpool washer leaks from underneath, the best thing to do is troubleshoot it.

We have helped with that by outlining the causes and simple solutions to this common problem.

So:

Try these recommendations to fix your leaking Whirlpool washer:

• Replace the defective drain pump.
• Unclog the drain hose and drain pump filter.
• Change the damaged door seal.
• Replace the broken motor coupling.
• Check for leaks in the outer washer tub.
• Change the faulty pressure switch.
• Unclog or replace the defective water inlet valve.

Of course:

The leakage affecting your Whirlpool washer should cease after attempting these basic and not-so-basic fixes.

For more technical fixes:

We advise you to schedule a repair appointment with Whirlpool if the warranty covers your device.

You know the drill:

We’d love to get feedback from you. Please tell us how your troubleshooting attempt goes! Which of our suggestions worked for you?

Let us know in the comment section below, along with any additions and questions you may have.

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Frequently Asked Questions