How to Troubleshoot and Repair a Washing Machine That Won’t Stop Filling

If your home washer won’t stop filling with water, act immediately to prevent a more significant problem, like costly appliance damage or a flooded laundry room. Our troubleshooting guide will walk you through the process.

Quick Fix Summary

• Unplug the washing machine. Cut the power by unplugging the unit from the wall to eliminate any electrical hazards.
• Turn off the water. Regardless of whether unplugging the machine has stopped the waterflow, shut off the water at the intake behind the machine.
• Drain the water from the drum. With the water controlled, assess how to drain the washer. If you don’t see water leaking from the machine, you can plug it back in and set it to a drain or drain-and-spin cycle. Keep the clothes washer valve closed. If for some reason you can’t run a drain cycle, you’ll need to bail or siphon the water from the drum.
• Troubleshoot the problem or call a professional. Begin the troubleshooting process once the washer is drained. Reach out to a technician for help as needed.

Why Is My Washer Still Filling With Water?

Overfilling is among the most common problems with washing machines, partly because the issue can stem from a variety of causes.

• Malfunctioning water inlet valve. A washing machine has an inlet valve that is designed to close when enough water has filled the drum. This valve can get stuck in the open state if there’s a mechanical failure or blockage. 
   
• Faulty water level switch. Many washing machines feature switches that are responsible for signaling when to shut off the water. If this switch fails, water can continue to pour into the drum. 
   
• Clogged or kinked pressure hose. Washing machines regulate water levels with a pressure hose (or air dome tube) that connects the drum to the air dome. As water in the drum increases, the air pressure inside the hose also increases, eventually triggering the water level switch. Clogs or kinks can interfere with the pressure within the hose, keeping it from triggering the switch. 
   
• Poor water pressure. Low water pressure may interfere with the mechanical operation of the inlet valve, allowing water to continue trickling into the drum. 
   
• Electronics failure. Faulty control boards and timers may be responsible for overfilling problems, particularly in older models.

Troubleshooting a Washer That Won’t Stop Filling

1. Unplug the washing machine. If water continues to fill your washing machine even after you have pulled the plug, the water inlet valve is likely stuck in the open state. 
    
2. Shut off the washing machine’s water supply. 
    
3. If cutting the power didn’t stop the flow of water, inspect the inlet valve at the rear of the machine. Examine the filter for debris and valve for any obstructions or a loose seal.  
    
4. Check the pressure hose. Disconnect the hose carefully, examine it for any bends or kinks, and blow through it to test for unobstructed airflow. As needed, clean the hose carefully with a pipe cleaner and warm diluted vinegar, or replace it. 
    
5. Next check the water level switch. Connect one end of the pressure hose to the switch and blow into the other end. You should hear a click if the switch engages. As necessary, continue troubleshooting the water level switch with a multimeter. Replace the switch if it fails a continuity test. 
    
6. Examine the air dome for cracks or wear and tear. If the air dome is damaged, replace it. 
    
7. If you’re reasonably confident that your inlet valve, pressure hose, water level switch, and air dome are all functional, you may have an electrical issue with the control panel. Now it’s time to reach out to a professional.

Where you find some of these components and how you access them can be dependent on your machine’s age, make, and model. Refer to your appliance’s manual for more specific information.

When to Check the Water Inlet Valve

Many inlet valves are mechanical in nature and don’t necessarily need an electrical signal to close. If water continues to fill the drum when the unit is disconnected from a power source, that is a strong indication that the inlet valve is faulty. 

Inspecting the Water Level & Pressure Switch

You can check the water level switch by detaching the other end of the pressure hose and blowing into it. If you hear the switch click, it is probably functional. You can also check the switch with a multimeter.

Final Fixes & When to Call a Professional

If you’ve already gone through the troubleshooting guide and still have a washing machine filled with water, try running a drain-and-spin cycle. Otherwise, you may need to bail the water out with a bucket or use an emergency siphon.

Contact a professional if you suspect an electrical issue. You should also call a technician if you see water leaking from the appliance and onto the floor. That suggests you’re up against a washing machine drain overflow, which can be complicated to resolve.

You can stay ahead of overfilling and other problems by keeping up with regular maintenance tasks. Periodically clean your washing machine and inspect the component parts for wear and tear. But if a malfunction does arise, take advantage of home warranty coverage to save on your repair bill. Learn more about Liberty Home Guard’s appliance coverage by calling (833)-545-3434.