If you're finding small puddles of water on the floor around your wine fridge you're probably asking yourself 'Why is my wine fridge leaking water'? That question is asked even more frequently in the summer months because the number one culprit of water in and around the wine fridge is condensation caused by either increased opening and closing of the door or a faulty door seal. However, that's not the only reason, so today we're going to look at why your wine fridge may be leaking water and how to fix the issue.
The first thing to do is to identify from where the leaking water is coming from both outside and inside the fridge and rule out the obvious, none wine fridge issues, for instance, is a bottle of wine is leaking, is the water tray overturned, do you have some other liquid in the wine fridge that may be leaking?
If you're certain the leak is coming from the fridge itself where is that water forming and how does it show up on the floor? Underneath the door would strongly point to condensation, if its underneath the drain pipe, then perhaps that is blocked?
Build up of condensation on the glass or back panel
With the warm summer months causing more of us to go in and out of our wine fridges for rose, whites and sparkling wines, you can find that the trapped air building up inside the unit is causing condensation and notice a mistiness on the inside glass or see droplets of water on the back of the fridge. The way to deal with this is either to open the fridge less or to simply wipe them off.
If you're not opening the door more regularly, a broken or dislodged door seal can often be the culprit, allowing warm air in. The best way to resolve this is to reseal the door.
There is no one brand that suffers from condensation build up more than another as generally the build-up is caused by the wine fridge owner interreacting frequently with the wine fridge.
Improper Installation
Improper installation can also cause water leakage in freestanding wine fridges. If the unit is not levelled or if the drainage system is not functioning correctly, water may accumulate and leak from the fridge.
To solve this, check the installation of your wine fridge and ensure that it is placed on a level surface. If necessary, adjust the leveling feet or use shims to achieve proper alignment. Additionally, inspect the drainage system, including the drain hole and the drip tray, to ensure they are not blocked or damaged.
Excessive Humidity
High humidity levels can contribute to water leakage in a wine fridge. When the humidity in the surrounding environment is too high, moisture can build up inside the fridge and lead to condensation and subsequent leakage.
One solution is to use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels in the room where your wine fridge is located. Ideally, the humidity should be around 50-70%. If the humidity exceeds this range, consider using a dehumidifier or implementing other moisture control methods in the room.
Faulty Door Seal
A faulty door seal is a common culprit for water leakage in wine fridges. If the door seal is damaged, worn out, or not properly aligned, it can allow warm air to enter the fridge, resulting in excessive condensation and water accumulation. One solution is to inspect the door seal for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, replace the seal following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the new seal is properly aligned and provides a tight seal when the door is closed.
Blocked or Frozen Drainage Tube
A blocked or frozen drainage tube can prevent water from properly draining out of the wine fridge, causing it to leak. Dust, debris, or ice can accumulate in the drainage tube over time, hindering its functionality. One solution is to locate the drainage tube at the back of the wine fridge and carefully inspect it for any blockages. If you notice any obstructions, gently clean the tube using a soft cloth or a pipe cleaner. In the case of a frozen tube, defrost it by unplugging the fridge and allowing it to thaw naturally.
TLDR;
A wine fridge leaking water can be a cause for concern, but with the right troubleshooting and solutions, you can resolve the issue and continue enjoying your collection of wines. By addressing condensation, ensuring proper installation, managing humidity levels, maintaining a functional door seal, and keeping the drainage tube clean, you can minimise the chances of water leakage in your wine fridge. Remember to consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific instructions on maintenance and troubleshooting, and if the problem persists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance and contact the manufacturer directly.