A leaking fridge or freezer can be extremely frustrating. It may result in water all over the floor, or in solid ice inside the cabinet of the machine. In either case, you need to fix the problem before you can use the freezer as usual, and it helps to have an idea of where to look to rectify the fault.
Always remember to unplug the freezer when doing a manual defrost.
Manual Defrost
The easiest and safest method of defrosting your leaky appliance is simple to switch it off atthe wall and where practical leaves the door or doors open for a period of preferably 48 hours, but a minimum of 24 hours. This should allow most ice build up to melt and clear any blocked channels. The longer you can leave it the more likely any blockages will be cleared. The process can be sped up by putting a bowl of hot water in side the cabinet and changing it when it becomes cold, the steam will help to soften and melt the ice. Of course make sure to put lots of towels down to soak up any water that may be produced and to protect your flooring.
Drain Hole / Channel
Mainly for fridge units that have a drainage gulley or channel on the interior back panel, this is one of the most common yet easy to fix faults. locate the drainage hole inside the channel and carefully poke a flexible straw ot another similar item as far as you can get into the hole. If possible something with a small hook would be ideal as it can catch on any items blocking the tube and pulling them clear.