water is leaking from the bottom of my nugget ice maker, not a lot but a constant small puddle.

Diagnosis

This leak in the Frigidaire EFIC189 is typically caused by a failure in the internal water circulation loop, specifically at the connection points where the silicone tubing meets the pump or the reservoir. Because nugget ice makers use a constant cycle of freezing and melting to "shave" the ice, water is under constant movement. Over time, the vibration from the auger motor can loosen the tension on the hose clamps or cause the flexible silicone tubing to slip off its mounting nipple. If the puddle is small and constant, it is likely a "slow drip" caused by a hairline crack in the tubing or a partial disconnection. This often happens if the unit is not perfectly level; when the machine tilts, the water level in the reservoir shifts, putting pressure on seals that aren't designed for offset loads. You can confirm this by placing a dry paper towel under the unit and observing if the leak accelerates during the "harvest" cycle (when the auger is actively pushing ice into the bin), which indicates a pump-pressure related leak.

How to Fix It

To resolve this leak, you need to access the internal plumbing to inspect and reseat the circulation lines. Follow these steps precisely:

1. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet and remove all ice from the bin. Empty the water reservoir completely to prevent spills during disassembly.
2. Carefully tilt the machine backward at a 45-degree angle. Locate the bottom access panel secured by Phillips-head screws. Remove these screws and lift the panel to expose the pump and tubing.
3. Locate the clear, flexible silicone tubes. Trace the line starting from the water pump (the small motor at the bottom) and follow it toward the freezing cylinder.
4. Inspect the "nipples" (the plastic protrusions the tubes slide onto). If a tube is loose, push it firmly back onto the nipple until it seats completely.
5. If the tube is loose due to a stretched fitting, use a small, high-tension zip-tie or a miniature hose clamp to secure the tubing to the plastic nipple. Tighten it enough to create a seal, but do not over-tighten, as this can crack the plastic fitting.
6. Check the bottom of the reservoir for any hairline cracks in the plastic molding. If a crack is found, apply a food-grade silicone sealant to the exterior of the crack and let it cure for 24 hours before adding water.
7. Reassemble the bottom panel, level the machine using a bubble level on the top surface, and run one full cycle to verify the leak has stopped.

If That Didn't Work

• Check the Drain Plug Seal: Inspect the rubber gasket on the drain plug located at the bottom of the unit. If the gasket has perished or is twisted, water will seep out of the plug housing. Remove the plug, clean the seating area of any mineral buildup, and reinstall the gasket firmly.
• Inspect the Auger Seal: If water is leaking from the center of the machine, the seal around the auger shaft may have failed. This is a mechanical failure where water enters the motor housing. This usually requires a replacement of the internal freezing cylinder assembly.
• Verify Ventilation Clearance: Ensure there is at least 5 inches of clearance around the side vents. If the machine overheats, the internal plastics can warp slightly, causing the reservoir to lose its airtight seal and drip from the seams.
• Flush Mineral Deposits: Scale buildup from hard water can create "bridges" of calcium that guide water over the edge of the internal reservoir and down the side of the chassis. Run a descaling cycle with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and distilled water to clear these paths.

Heads Up

• Always use distilled or filtered water to prevent calcium buildup, which is the leading cause of pump failure and seal degradation in nugget ice makers.
• Never tilt the machine forward while it contains water, as this can force liquid into the electronic control board, causing a permanent short circuit.
• Clean the water reservoir every two weeks with a mild soap to prevent biofilm buildup, which can clog the small diameter circulation tubes and cause pressure backups.
• Ensure the unit is placed on a hard, flat surface; placing the EFIC189 on a towel or soft mat can obstruct the bottom intake and cause the unit to lean, triggering the leaks described above.