How to Prevent Mold Damage from Refrigerator & Ice Maker Leaks

A leaking refrigerator or ice maker can do more than ruin your kitchen floor—it can quietly cause mold and hidden water damage behind walls and cabinets. Here’s how to catch leaks early, prevent mold, and know when to call for professional help.

Why Appliance Leaks Matter

Turn off the water supply to your fridge or the main line if needed.

1. Soak up visible water and use fans or a dehumidifier to dry the area.

2. Inspect nearby drywall and baseboards. If they’re soft, warped, or stained, moisture has already spread.

3. Don’t wait longer than 24 hours to dry affected materials—mold can start fast.

4. Call a professional if the leak soaked wood, drywall, or cabinets. Specialized drying tools can prevent long-term damage.

Will Homeowners Insurance Cover It?

Most policies cover sudden and accidental leaks—like a burst line—but not slow leaks from wear, corrosion, or neglect.
✅ Tip: Document the damage with photos and keep maintenance records to strengthen any claim.

6 Ways to Prevent Kitchen Water Damage

Clean behind your fridge and ice maker. Remove dust buildup that traps heat and moisture.

1. Replace brittle or plastic water lines with stainless-steel braided hoses.

2. Flush hard-water buildup from supply lines every 6–12 months.

3. Check for moisture under and around the fridge monthly.

4. Use a smart water alarm near the fridge base to detect small leaks early.

5. Shut off water to appliances before extended travel.Tips to Prevent Kitchen Appliance Water Damage

Avoiding Mold After a Leak

If water escaped, you have a short window to prevent mold:

• Dry all surfaces completely with fans and dehumidifiers.

• Check for musty odors or discoloration near the fridge kickplate or wall.

• Clean small spots with mild detergent, not bleach, on non-porous surfaces.

• Call a certified mold remediation team if growth is visible or recurring.

Local Help for Kitchen Water Damage

Adams Complete Cleaning & Restoration is IICRC-certified and locally owned, serving Macomb, Fraser, Sterling Heights, and Warren.

Our 24/7 emergency team handles water extraction, structural drying, and mold remediation—so a leaky appliance doesn’t turn into a major rebuild.

Call (586) 701-8412 or request a free inspection online.

FAQ: How to prevent mold damage in your kitchen

• How do I know if my refrigerator water line is leaking?

  Watch for water spots under the fridge, buckled flooring, or a musty smell. Pull the unit forward occasionally and inspect the hose connections.

• Can mold grow behind my refrigerator?

  Yes. Warm air from the compressor and trapped moisture create an ideal hidden mold zone—especially if the fridge isn’t pulled out for cleaning.

• Should I use bleach to clean refrigerator mold?

  No. Bleach may lighten stains but doesn’t reach porous materials like drywall or wood. Use detergent and water, or call a professional for deep cleanup.

• What type of water line is best for an ice maker?

  Stainless-steel braided hoses are the most durable and resistant to kinks or pinholes.

• How can I prevent leaks while I’m on vacation?

  Turn off the appliance water supply or your home’s main line, and check for any drips before leaving.

• When should I call a restoration company?

  If the leak soaked flooring, baseboards, or cabinets—or if you smell mildew—call within 24 hours for moisture inspection and drying.