Dishwasher leak warning: shut off water, stay safe and prepare for service
If your dishwasher is leaking, stop the cycle, shut off the water supply and reduce electrical risk. Here’s what you can safely do before a qualified technician arrives—and what information to have ready.
First steps when you see a leak
If water is actively leaking, stop using the dishwasher. Do not run it again until the source of the leak has been fixed.
If you can do so safely, turn off the dishwasher’s power at the circuit breaker and shut off its water supply. Use towels or a shallow tray to catch water; a wet/dry vacuum can be used to remove standing water.
Find the accessible water shutoff
The dishwasher’s water shutoff valve is typically under the sink, on the hot-water line. Use this valve to stop the supply to the dishwasher.
If you are unsure which valve supplies the dishwasher, do not disconnect hoses or move the appliance to investigate. Ask a qualified technician for help.
Treat electricity as a hazard
Turning the dishwasher off at its control panel is not the same as disconnecting its power. When preparing to work around the appliance, switch off its circuit breaker and confirm that its display and lights are off.
Stop and contact a qualified technician if you smell burning, see damaged wiring or the circuit breaker trips repeatedly. If the dishwasher is hard-wired, do not remove panels or access electrical parts yourself.
What to note without opening the appliance
Note where water is visible—for example, near the door, below the dishwasher or behind it—and whether the leak occurs during or after a cycle. These observations can help the technician narrow down the issue.
Do not open panels or try to reach internal parts. If an error code or flashing lights appear, write down what you see and consult the model’s manual; continued faults should be handled by a qualified technician.
Prepare for the service visit
Have the dishwasher’s model and serial number ready. They are located on the tub frame. Tell the technician where you saw water and when it appeared, and share any displayed error code or flashing lights.
Keep the dishwasher off and the water supply shut off until the leak is addressed. Leave internal diagnosis and repairs to a qualified technician.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the dishwasher water shutoff usually located?
Typically, it is under the sink on the hot-water line.
Is turning the dishwasher off at its control panel enough?
No. To cut power, turn off the dishwasher’s circuit breaker; do not rely on the control panel alone.
What should I have ready for the technician?
Have the model and serial number ready; they are on the tub frame. Note where and when you saw the leak, and record any error code or flashing lights.