FAQ: Can a Refrigerator Water Line Leak Cause Serious Damage?

Short answer? Yes.

And here’s the real kicker—it usually happens quietly, over time, behind the unit where you can’t see it.

At Total Home Water Restoration, we’ve seen it too many times:
A homeowner pulls the fridge out for spring cleaning and finds warped flooring, swollen baseboards, or even mold creeping up the wall. All from a tiny, cracked plastic hose or a loose valve fitting.

That slow drip adds up—especially when it’s hidden in a dark corner and the fridge is pushed up tight against the wall.

What Kind of Damage Are We Talking About?

A leaking fridge water line can lead to:

• Baseboard rot or bubbling paint

• Warped or cupped flooring (wood, vinyl, laminate—none of it’s safe)

• Black mold inside the wall

• Damage to drywall, insulation, and even subfloor

• Electrical hazards if the water runs near an outlet or appliance cord

If left unchecked, we’ve seen these small leaks turn into major restoration projects.

What Should You Look For?

Next time you’re cleaning or if you suspect a musty smell in the kitchen, check for:

• Water stains or soft spots along the baseboards or under the fridge

• Warped floorboards or floor tiles lifting

• Moldy smell that gets stronger near the appliance

• Rust on the fridge water line valve or connections

If you spot any of these signs, don’t ignore it. Even a “small” leak behind your fridge can damage the structure of your kitchen over time.

How We Handle It

At Total Home Water Restoration, we’re ready to:

• Pull the fridge, inspect the area, and find the leak

• Test for moisture behind walls and under flooring

• Remove water-damaged materials safely

• Dry out and treat hidden spaces to prevent mold

• Rebuild—drywall, flooring, cabinetry—whatever it takes to make it right

We know how insurance works in these situations, too. We’ll help you document the loss and work with your adjuster to get repairs covered if eligible.

Don’t Wait to Check That Line

Refrigerator water lines are one of the sneakiest sources of home water damage. They don’t gush—they seep. And by the time you notice something’s wrong, the damage is already done.

If you're in Grove City or nearby in Columbus, Hilliard, Galloway, or Upper Arlington—call us. We’ll take care of it like it’s our own home.

Have More Questions?

Is it covered by insurance?
Sometimes, yes. If the damage was sudden and accidental, your homeowner’s policy might cover it. We’ll help you navigate that.

Can I just replace the hose myself?
You can. But if there’s already moisture damage, the hose is only part of the issue. We’ll check for mold or hidden water inside your walls or floor.

How fast can you get here?
Call 380-246-1837—we offer fast response, especially for active leaks.

From Disaster to Done Right.

Total Home Water Restoration
4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837