How to Check for Leaks in GE and Hotpoint Washing Machines

Last Updated: January 2, 2023 References

Here is a list of parts to check if your GE & Hotpoint washer develop a water leak. Follow the instructions below to find where your GE or Hotpoint washing machine is leaking from. Often a visual inspection will tell you what is going on. The front panels of top loaders come off easily; there are two clips on top loaders that must be depressed to pop the panel off. A thin screwdriver or scraper will release these clips. Slide your tool along the seam between the top and front panels, the clips are 4–5 inches (10.2–12.7 cm) from the corners.

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Method 1

Method 1 of 8:

The Pump

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will fall from the clothes you're washing and wind up inside of the pump. These objects can cause cracks in the pump body making the pump leak. ^{[1]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 8:

The hoses that connect to the pump

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Without the pressure from the clamps, the hoses will leak. Sometimes all you only need to do is to change the clamps to correct a leak. Fill hoses should be replaced every 5 years. ^{[2]
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Research source}

Method 3

Method 3 of 8:

The Overflow Tube

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If the washing machine fails to stop the incoming water when it reaches the selected level, water will leak through the overflow tube. This usually indicates a pressure switch problem, see below. ^{[3]
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After overflow you may see what looks like plain water on your floor; suds will usually disappear after a few minutes. On front loaders in particular, use High Efficiency detergent to reduce sudsing.

Method 4

Method 4 of 8:

The Transmission Seal

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1
When the washer leaks water through the transmission seal, it is probably time to get a new washing machine. It costs too much to do a transmission seal replacement. ^{[4]
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- Seals cost less than 20 dollars and take about 30 minutes to change.

Method 5

Method 5 of 8:

The Air Dome or Pressure Switch Hose

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1
Sometimes you will find that the pressure switch hose has come off the air dome. When this happens, the washer won't stop filling and this will cause a leak. ^{[5]
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- Check operation of pressure switch. This switch tells the system that there is water in the tub and allows it to proceed to agitate. The switch itself is behind control panel but you can lightly blow into the hose leading up to it. Remove hose from side of tub and see if you can get the switch to flip by softly blowing into the hose. If power is on and timer is set to fill, it might begin to agitate at this point, so keep your hands away from the motor and pulley assembly. If it does try to agitate the switch is functional. It is best to check this while unplugged, then reassemble and try the unit.
- Check the hose for blockage, especially where hose connects to tank, lint from clothes can clog this causing overfilling.

Method 6

Method 6 of 8:

The Washer Holding Tank

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Method 7

Method 7 of 8:

The Water Valve or Fill Hoses

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If someone tries to move the washing machine by grabbing it by the water valve, this could cause the water valve to crack. ^{[6]
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Research source}
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Method 8

Method 8 of 8:

The Holding Tank Top Seal

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You will notice the water trickling down the holding tank. ^{[7]
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Research source}

Community Q&A

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Question

What if water drips when the machine is not in use?

Community Answer

Your supply lines might be faulty or your water pump needs replacing. It's cheap, quick, and easy to do yourself.

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If I have water leaking from under the washer when filling up, what might the issue be?

Community Answer

There could be a leakage underneath from a lot of pressure building up. You might want to get a plumber; he or she could give you some assistance with this.

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My washing machine smells like gas, could there be a gas leak?

Community Answer

Ordinary washing machines don't use gas. They are electric. Other appliances, like fridges, have a gas tank (freon or similar) to help the compression process, but washing machines don't. Is your machine connected to gas plant? If not, there is no gas source.

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Warnings

Make sure that you disconnect your washing machine from the wall outlet before attempting to do any repairs. Electricity is dangerous, but if you treat it with respect and follow the safety instructions, you will be OK.

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How to Check for Leaks in GE and Hotpoint Washing Machines

Steps

Get Product Support Solve Any Problem

The Pump

The hoses that connect to the pump

The Overflow Tube

The Transmission Seal

The Air Dome or Pressure Switch Hose

The Washer Holding Tank

The Water Valve or Fill Hoses

The Holding Tank Top Seal

Community Q&A

Tips

Warnings

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References

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