Abstract: A automatic dishwasher protective system is provided for intercepting and preventing an accumulation of leakage liquid into an area beneath the dishwasher prior to the leakage liquid contacting the underlying surface on which the dishwasher is supported. It also includes an element in the intercepting and preventing means for diverting leakage liquid from the dishwasher away from an area beneath the dishwasher, and alerting a user of the dishwasher that leakage liquid is being emitted into the area beneath the dishwasher. The protective device includes a wedge-like rear wall for installing the protective device beneath an installed dishwasher without requiring the removal of the dishwasher.