Can I keep using the fridge?

Usually yes. Turn off the water supply to the ice maker and wipe up the water so it doesn't damage the floor.

Why does ice build up under the crisper drawers?

That's almost always a frozen or clogged defrost drain.

Refrigerator Leaking Water

Most fridge leaks come from a clogged defrost drain, a cracked or loose water line to the ice maker, or a water filter that isn’t seated right.

Common causes

Clogged defrost drain. Water from the defrost cycle can’t get to the drain pan, so it freezes in the freezer or runs into the fridge and onto the floor.
Water supply line. The small plastic or copper line to the ice maker cracks or the fitting loosens.
Water filter. A filter that’s not locked in, or an off-brand filter that doesn’t seal.
Water inlet valve. The valve at the back cracks or drips.
Drain pan. Cracked or sitting out of place under the fridge.
Door gasket. Warm air gets in, you get more frost, and more water when it melts.

Checks you can do safely

Turn off power (and water or gas where it applies) before you reach inside any appliance.

Check under the crisper drawers for standing water. That points to the defrost drain.
Take the filter out and put it back until it clicks.
Turn off the water to the fridge and see if the leak stops.
Pull the fridge out carefully and look at the line and valve at the back.

When to call us

Call if the leak keeps coming back, if water is pooling inside the fridge, or if the valve at the back is wet. We work Monday to Friday, 8 to 5, across Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Rockwall, Ellis and Johnson counties. The service call is $150 and we waive it if you go ahead with the repair. Parts and labor are covered for 90 days.

Service page: refrigerator repair.