Why Does My Kettle Leak? (quick & easy fixes)

Your kettle may be leaking due to several reasons, including overfilling, limescale build-up, or even a broken lid. 

Whether you’re dealing with a leak from the kettle lid, spout, or bottom, this article will show you how to address these common issues, offer practical solutions, and help extend your kettle’s lifespan. 

By identifying the specific cause, you can take targeted steps to stop the leak and prevent serious risks such as electrocution or fire. Keep reading to learn more.

Leaking Kettle Troubleshooting Guide

Check our troubleshooting guide for possible causes and solutions for leaking kettles.

Possible CauseSolution
Kettle leaking from the lidOver filling the kettleNever fill above the full line
Limescale build-upRemove limescale with a descaler soaked cloth
Broken lidReplace kettle
Kettle leaking from the spout when pouringLimescale build-up in spoutWipe the spout with a cloth soaked with descaler
Clogged scale filterRemove filter, descale, and replace
Kettle leaking from the bottomBottom touched water in the sink when fillingKeep the sink clear of pots etc and take care when filling the kettle
Water spillage down the kettle when fillingKeep the kettle directly under the tap when filling and don’t allow water to spill down the sides
Leak in the viewing window and water running down and pooling at the baseCheck for leak and repair with food grade silicone sealant
Steam entering the seal at the base of the kettle – Design faultReplace under guarantee
Slight crack in either the bottom of the kettle or the joint between the kettle side and base is leakingCheck for leak and repair with food grade silicone sealant
Kettle leaking from windowCrack or joint failure on the viewing windowCheck the viewing window, and repair with a food grade silicone sealant

How To Repair Kettle Leaks

Tip To Prevent Kettle Leaks

If your kettle leaks and you know where the leak is coming from, contact the manufacturer first.

Provided your kettle is still under warranty and the leak isn’t due to misuse or damage on purpose, a repair or replacement might be offered by the manufacturer. Purchasing a new one is an option, which could cost as low as £15. 

But if you’re keen on attempting the repair yourself, keep reading to find out how to fix the leak. Always ensure the kettle is unplugged and the power is switched off before attempting any repairs.

How To Repair A Kettle Leaking From The Lid

Buying A Kettle

First, check if the reason why your kettle is leaking is because it’s too full. Water expands as it boils, so an overfilled kettle can leak from the lid when heated. 

If overfilling isn’t the issue, limescale build-up around the kettle’s rim may be to blame. Often, descaling solutions don’t reach the kettle’s top edge or lid, preventing a proper seal and causing leaks when pouring. 

To fix this, pour some descaler onto a cloth and wipe the kettle top rim and lid. Follow the package instructions for application time, then rinse the kettle using a fresh clean cloth dampened with water. Alternatively, a solution of white vinegar and water, mixed in equal parts, is effective as well.

If neither of these problems applies, the lid might be broken. Unfortunately, a broken lid typically means the kettle needs replacing.

SEE ALSO: How To Descale A Kettle

How To Prevent Water Leaking From The Kettle Spout When Pouring

Kettle

A kettle often leaks while pouring because of limescale build-up at the spout’s rim, disrupting water flow and mimicking a leak. Regular descaling may not work if the spout isn’t targeted. 

To fix this, apply the descaler to a cloth or cotton swab and clean the spout. After letting the descaler work, rinse it off. This should ensure smooth water flow through the spout. For a natural descaler, a solution made from equal parts white vinegar and water works well.

Additionally, a clogged mesh scale filter inside the kettle, just before the spout, can disrupt water flow, leading to leakage. You can easily solve this by removing the kettle’s filter to descale it. Let the filter soak in a descaling solution, followed by a thorough rinse. After it’s clean, place the filter back into the kettle.

To prevent future buildup, remove and soak the filter in the descaling solution during your regular kettle descaling routine; this will help eliminate limescale from both the filter and kettle.

If it continues to leak, the spout may be damaged, possibly from snagging on the tap or if the kettle was dropped. In such cases, you’ll need to replace the appliance.

How To Stop Water Leaking From The Bottom Of The Kettle

Energy Saving Kettle

Keep The Bottom Of The Kettle Dry

Sometimes, while filling the kettle from the tap, it might accidentally dip into water, especially if the sink is full. This is a common oversight when we’re multitasking. 

To prevent this, check the kettle’s bottom for wetness after filling and before placing it on its base. If you find it wet, simply dry it off. Additionally, watch for water spilling down the kettle’s side during filling, which can happen if held at a slight angle.

Repair The Kettle Crack Or Hole

If the leak isn’t caused by the previous issue, the kettle may have a small hole or crack, likely in the viewing window or at the base. 

Modern kettles, often made of plastic, are not as durable as those made from stainless steel or iron. Minor impacts can cause cracks, allowing boiling water to leak, especially since plastic softens with heat. Some stainless steel kettles have plastic bases for insulation and to protect the heating elements and electronics, but the seal between the kettle and the base can deteriorate, resulting in leaks. Address the issue immediately to avoid electrical hazards.

To fix the bottom crack, first boil water in the kettle and observe carefully to pinpoint the leak. Mark the spot with chalk or another removable marker. After emptying and cooling the appliance, cover the crack with a food-grade silicone sealant. Let it cure, then boil and empty the kettle 3 times to confirm it’s safe for use.

Pro tip: The accumulation of condensed steam, appearing as a leak at the bottom of your kettle, is a design flaw common in many electric kettles and cannot be fixed. If under warranty, exchanging your kettle for another model might be the most effective solution.

How To Repair A Leaking Viewing Window On A Kettle

descaling a kettle

The kettle may leak water from its viewing window, often because the sealant for the plastic viewing window deteriorates, a typical problem in electric kettles, or the window might have a split.

To fix it, identify the leak and apply the food-grade silicone sealant. After the sealant dries, fill and boil water in the kettle, then empty it to check for leaks. Repeat this process, and the appliance should be leak-free and ready for use.

If your kettle is still under warranty, reach out to the manufacturer for a possible repair or replacement.

SEE ALSO: Kettle Not Working? (this might be why)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a leaking kettle dangerous?

A leaking kettle is dangerous as boiling water can cause serious burns. Plus electricity and water do not mix, this could cause electrocution or a power shortage.

How do you fix a leaky plastic kettle?

You can fix a leaky plastic kettle using food grade silicone sealant.

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