Why Your Washing Machine Won’t Stop Filling: Top 5 Causes and Solutions

Ever turned on your washing machine only to find it filling non-stop? Don’t panic!

Why Your Washing Machine Won't Stop Filling Top 5 Causes and Solutions

This guide will help you diagnose and fix the top 5 reasons why your washing machine won’t stop filling, getting your laundry back on track in no time.

Washing Machine Won’t Stop Filling: Top 5 Reasons and Simple Fixes

Several factors can contribute to the issue of an overfilling washer. So, if your washing machine won’t stop filling, follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve it.

1. Faulty Water Inlet Valve

When your washing machine seems insatiable, continuously filling with water, the culprit is often a malfunctioning water inlet valve that remains stuck in the open position.

How to Check the Water Inlet Valve:

Start by turning your washer on and letting it begin the filling process. As water starts to flow into the machine, take the following steps to diagnose the issue:

  1. While the washer is in the process of filling, turn off the washer.
  2. If the appliance continues to fill with water, it’s a clear indicator that the water inlet valve has failed to close properly. This means the valve is defective and needs to be replaced.
  3. To perform a more precise examination, you can use a multimeter set to ohm mode to test the water inlet valve.

Please note that water inlet valve resistance values may differ between washer models. Refer to your owner’s manual to determine the appropriate voltage values for your specific machine. For washers operating at 120 Vac, the water inlet valve resistance should be approximately 1.2 kiloohms, while for those operating at 220 Vac, the water inlet valve resistance should be around 3.8 kiloohms.

2. Faulty pressure switch hose

One common issue leading to an overfilling washing machine is a malfunctioning pressure switch hose. This component connects the pressure switch to the air chamber. As the washing machine’s tub fills with water, the increasing air pressure within the hose plays a crucial role—it signals the water inlet valve to deactivate once the desired water level is reached.

When your washing machine won’t stop filling with water beyond its designated level, the issue often lies with the pressure hose. This hose can become obstructed, disconnected, or develop a pinhole. If a pinhole is present, it disrupts the pressure, hindering the water level switch’s ability to effectively cut off power to the water inlet valve.

To address this issue, follow these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Begin by verifying that the pressure hose is still securely connected. Ensure it doesn’t slip off or become disconnected during normal operation.
  2. Disconnect the pressure hose to examine it for any obstructions or clogs that may impede air pressure from properly building up.
  3. Attempt to blow through the hose. If you encounter resistance, it’s a strong indication that the hose or air chamber may be obstructed. If this is the case, proceed to remove the air chamber and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.
  4. Thoroughly examine the pressure hose for any holes or tears. If you discover a hole, it’s advisable to replace the hose as it cannot effectively maintain pressure.
Reattach the hose.

When reattaching the hose, be vigilant to ensure it is not twisted, as this can impede proper pressure buildup.

3. Faulty Water Level Switch or Sensor

The water level sensor in your washing machine is an important component that utilizes pressure to determine when it’s time to stop the water from filling the tub. This sensor or switch typically consists of multiple contact sets, with each serving a distinct function. In this explanation, we’ll concentrate on the first set of contacts, responsible for supplying power to the water inlet valve and allowing the tub to fill. However, if your washing machine continues to fill with water endlessly, the problem may originate from these contacts within the sensor becoming stuck.

When the contacts within the water level switch are jammed, the switch essentially loses its ability to differentiate between the water levels required for filling and washing. This results in the washer continuously filling.

Testing the Water Level Switch:

To determine whether the water level switch is still functioning correctly or needs replacement, you can conduct a simple test using a multimeter.

For top-loader washers:
  • Begin by removing the control panel back cover.
  • Access the water level switch, typically located near the main control board or timer control.
For front-loader washers:
  • Locate the water level switch, which is usually mounted just under the top cover parts.
  • To access the switch, unscrew the top cover screws from the back, then lift it up.

Testing Process:

To troubleshoot and potentially replace a faulty water level switch, follow these steps:

  1. Start by disconnecting the pressure hose from the pressure switch.
  2. Next, remove the wiring harness and disassemble the switch from the washer.
  3. Verify that the switch exhibits continuity, which it should under normal circumstances.
  4. Now, depending on the type of pressure sensor in your washing machine, follow the appropriate steps:
  • For a pressure sensor with a single-level switch:
  1. Using a multimeter, connect one probe to terminal 11 and the other to terminal 12 on the water level switch.
  2. Gently blow into the pressure switch hose; you should hear a single click. This action should disrupt continuity. If the switch fails to lose continuity when you blow into it, it indicates that the contacts have jammed and necessitates the replacement of the pressure switch.
  • For a pressure sensor with a two-level switch:
  1. Using a multimeter, connect one probe to terminal 11 and the other to terminal 12 on the water level switch.
  2. Additionally, connect one probe to terminal 21 and the other to terminal 22 on the water level switch.
  3. Gently blow into the pressure switch hose; you should hear two clicks. This action should disrupt continuity. If the switch fails to lose continuity when you blow into it, it indicates that the contacts have jammed and requires replacement of the pressure switch.
  • For a pressure sensor with a three-level switch:
  1. Using a multimeter, connect one probe to terminal 11 and the other to terminal 12 on the water level switch.
  2. Next, connect one probe to terminal 21 and the other to terminal 22 on the water level switch.
  3. Finally, connect one probe to terminal 31 and the other to terminal 32 on the water level switch.
  4. Gently blow into the pressure switch hose; you should hear three clicks. This action should disrupt continuity. If the switch fails to lose continuity when you blow into it, it indicates that the contacts have jammed and necessitates the replacement of the pressure switch.
Testing the Water Level Switch

4. Troubleshooting a washing machine that won’t stop filling: Washing Machine Continuously Filling with Water While Draining

Find out more about how to solve this issue.

5. Faulty Main Control Board and Timer Control

If you have already checked the potential causes mentioned earlier and your washing machine is still experiencing flooding, it’s possible that the main control board or timer control is the culprit. Let’s explore these potential issues in more detail:

  • Electronic Controls Washer: In washers equipped with electronic controls, a malfunctioning main control board can result in problems like a shorted circuit in the inlet valve TRIAC. This malfunction can cause the water inlet valve to stay continuously energized, leading to a constant flow of water into the washer and, consequently, an overfilling issue. Inspect the control board for visible signs of damage, such as burn marks, as these can be indicative of a problem. If necessary, replace the main control board.
  • Mechanical Controls Washer: For washing machines with mechanical controls, a malfunctioning timer control can lead to issues such as a shorted circuit in the inlet valve contact switch. This can keep the water inlet valve energized, causing continuous water filling and an overfilled washer. As with electronic controls, check the timer control for any visible damage, such as burn marks. If needed, replace the timer control.

Conclusion

When your washing machine won’t stop filling with water, it can be frustrating, but the causes and solutions are often manageable. By checking the water inlet valve, water level switch, and pressure hose and considering the condition of the main control board or timer control, you can diagnose and address the issue.

Remember to prioritize safety by disconnecting power and water sources before attempting any repairs.

Answering Your Washing Machine Overfill Questions: FAQs and Solutions

If your washing machine won’t stop filling with water, it could be due to various reasons, such as a faulty water inlet valve, a malfunctioning water level switch, or issues with the pressure hose and/or air chamber.

To test the water level switch (pressure switch), start by disconnecting the power and accessing the switch. Using a multimeter, check for continuity and ensure it responds correctly to changes in air pressure. Follow the steps provided in the guide to diagnose and address any issues.

If you discover a hole in the pressure hose, it can lead to an overfilling problem. The best course of action is to replace the hose to ensure proper pressure regulation. Be sure to follow safety precautions, disconnect power, and turn off water sources before undertaking any repairs.

Leave a Reply