Why Is My Wash Machine Flooding When On Hot Water? 5 Causes and Solutions

1. Blocked Drain

In many cases, the real cause of flooding isn’t the washing machine but a drainage issue. No matter if the washer empties into a sink, a wall pipe, a floor drain, or a basin, any blockage along the path to the sewer line, like built-up debris, can lead to water backing up and spilling over.

The Solution

How you fix a clogged drain depends on where your washing machine sends the water. If it drains into a sink or basin, the problem is often easy to spot—something like lint or a small object stuck in the drain. Clearing it out usually solves the issue.
But if the water goes into a wall or floor drain, the clog might be deeper in the system. In that case, a plumbing snake is often needed to break through the blockage. That’s why many people choose to leave it to professionals who specialize in drain cleaning.

2. Leaking Hose Connection

Washing machines are hooked up to your home’s water system using flexible hoses, which can wear out or loosen as time goes on. When that happens, you might notice leaks or even serious flooding. Since hot water tends to be harsher on materials than cold water, the connection on the hot side is more likely to be the source of the problem.

The Solution

If your washer is new and suddenly starts flooding, one of the first things to inspect is how the hoses were installed. Incorrectly fitted or loose connections are a frequent issue. The same goes if your hoses have been in use for more than five years—they might just be worn out.
Take a look behind the appliance and where the hoses attach to your home’s plumbing. If you spot any moisture, drips, or signs of leakage, the problem might be a loose connection or an old hose. You can usually fix it yourself by tightening or swapping out the hoses, or bring in an SD Appliance Repair professional if you’d rather not handle it on your own.

3. Overloaded Machine

Overloading your washing machine with too many clothes or large, heavy items can lead to more than just some extra noise or movement. One major issue is that it might block the internal drainage system. If that happens, the washer won’t be able to properly get rid of the water from the wash or rinse cycle, which can cause water to back up inside.

The Solution

A simple way to avoid this issue is by not cramming too much into the washer at once. But when it comes to washing bulky things, that’s not always realistic. The key is to arrange the load as evenly as you can to keep things balanced. It also helps to keep an eye on the washer while it drains, so you can catch any signs of trouble before it turns into a mess.

4. Door Seal Damage

Front-loading washers have a unique issue that top-loaders don’t—water sits right up against the door during each cycle. If the seal around that door wears out, shifts out of place, or stops working properly, it can let water leak out, potentially leading to flooding.

The Solution

If you use a front-load washer, it’s a good idea to check the door seal regularly. Just a quick look before starting a load can help spot any issues early. If water ever leaks because the seal has failed, the only real fix is to install a new one.

5. Mechanical Failure

Modern washing machines are a far cry from the simple washboards used generations ago. With numerous mechanical and electronic parts involved in handling water, it’s not unusual for a malfunction in one of these systems to lead to a leak or even a full-blown flood.

The Solution

When a part breaks down or a mechanical issue occurs, it’s often best to call in a professional, especially with newer models. In cases of flooding, the cause could be related to the water sensor, drain pump, inlet valve, or even the motherboard. On average, washing machine repairs range from $165 to $490, a much smaller expense compared to the cost of dealing with serious water damage.

When to Call a Pro

It’s possible to fix some washing machine issues on your own, particularly if the flooding is caused by a clogged sink drain or leaking hoses. However, dealing with more complicated problems in newer machines often needs expert knowledge and sometimes special tools. For these situations, many homeowners prefer to hire a local repair professional to handle the problem.