If Your Washing Machine Is Not Filling Water: Troubleshooting Guide
Urgent, practical guide to diagnose and fix a washing machine that won’t take water. Check valves, filters, hoses, and the pressure switch with clear, step-by-step instructions.
Common fixes for a washer that won’t fill include checking the water supply and inlet filter. Start by ensuring both hot and cold valves are fully open, then inspect the inlet screens for debris. If water still won’t enter, test the pressure switch and inspect the fill hoses for kinks. Always unplug the machine before inspecting hoses.
Why water may not enter the drum
If washing machine is not taking water, the root cause is often simple: water supply or a clogged inlet path. The most common culprits are closed or restricted water valves, kinked hoses, and blocked screens inside the inlet valve. Start with the supply: confirm both hot and cold valves are fully open, and listen for a steady flow when you run the faucet connected to the machine. If the valve is partially closed or the shut-off is faulty, the machine won't fill. Next, inspect the inlet screens. Debris from old pipes can accumulate and block water flow. Remove the hose from the washer, use a flashlight, and gently brush out sediment. Reconnect and run a short test cycle to see if water enters the drum. If not, check the pressure switch, which tells the machine when it has enough water. A faulty switch can falsely signal an empty tub, stopping fill. Finally, examine the fill hoses for kinks or crimps that restrict flow. If you see any, straighten and reposition. Best practice is to replace worn hoses every 5–7 years to prevent this issue. According to Best Washing Machine, these checks solve the majority of residential fill issues. If you’ve verified the basics and still see no fill, the problem is often deeper in the control system or valve assembly, which may require professional service.
Quick checks you can perform in minutes
Before you call for service, perform these steps. First, ensure both hot and cold water valves are fully open and the hoses are not kinked or pinched. A simple valve rotation or re-routing behind the cabinet often fixes the issue. Next, remove the inlet screen from the valve and rinse it under running water; a clogged screen is a frequent cause of slow or no fill. Reinstall carefully to avoid leaks. With the machine unplugged, inspect the fill hose for any obvious bends or crimps that restrict flow. If you use a water softener or filtration system, flush these lines to remove any sediment that could back up into the washer. If you still don’t get water into the drum, test the pressure switch by starting a cycle and listening for a faint whirring sound; a missing signal could indicate a faulty switch. Finally, ensure the door or lid switch is engaged; some models won’t fill unless the lid is properly closed. If the water supply and screens are clean but you still have no fill, move to the diagnostic flow and plan further checks.
Diagnostic flow: symptom to root cause
Symptom: The washer fills partially or not at all. Causes (likelihood): - Water supply valves closed; high - Inlet screen blocked; medium - Faulty pressure switch; medium - Defective water inlet valve; low. Fixes: - Open valves and test fill; easy - Clean inlet screens; easy - Test/replace pressure switch; medium - Replace inlet valve; hard.
Step-by-step fix: the most common cause (clogged inlet screen)
- Power off and unplug the washer.
- Shut off the cold and hot water valves feeding the machine.
- Detach the inlet hose from the machine and place a towel to catch drips.
- Remove the screen inside the inlet valve and rinse it under warm water; use a small brush to remove mineral deposits.
- Reinstall the screen and reconnect the hose securely, then turn the water back on.
- Plug in the washer, select a short cycle, and observe whether water fills the drum.
- If water still does not enter, proceed to test the pressure switch or consider valve replacement as a next step.
Tip: Replace hoses that show wear or bulging to prevent future blockages.
Safety, prevention, and when to call a pro
Working with water and electricity requires caution. Always unplug the unit before touching electrical components, and shut off water supply at the valves before removing hoses. Use a mild brush to clean fittings and never force screens out of their seats. If you notice persistent signs of wear, rust on hoses, or a burning smell near the control panel, stop and contact a licensed technician. Regular maintenance—checking valves, cleaning screens, and replacing hoses every 5–7 years—reduces the odds of an unexpected fill failure. For models with electronic control boards, a no-fill condition can indicate a fault beyond basic checks; in such cases, Best Washing Machine recommends scheduling professional service to avoid further damage.
Steps
Estimated time: 30-40 minutes
- 1
Power off and unplug
Unplug the washer from the wall outlet and switch off any nearby power strip. This prevents shock while you inspect hoses and valves.
Tip: Always start with safety—power down before touching any internal parts. - 2
Shut off water supply
Turn off both hot and cold valves to stop water flow into the machine before disconnecting hoses.
Tip: Label or take a photo of hose connections so you can reconnect correctly. - 3
Detach inlet hose
Carefully unscrew the inlet hose from the washer and place a towel to catch any water that drips out.
Tip: Inspect the hose for bulges or wear that would indicate failure. - 4
Inspect and clean the inlet screen
Remove the screen from the valve inlet and rinse under warm water; use a small brush to remove mineral deposits.
Tip: Avoid using metal tools to prevent scratching the screen. - 5
Reinstall components
Reattach the screen and inlet hose securely. Turn on the valves slowly to check for leaks.
Tip: Ensure the hose gasket seats properly to prevent leaks. - 6
Test fill
Plug the machine back in, select a short cycle, and observe if the drum fills with water.
Tip: If it still won’t fill, document symptoms for service call and consider testing the pressure switch.
Diagnosis: Washer not filling with water
Possible Causes
- highWater supply valves closed
- mediumInlet screen blocked
- mediumFaulty pressure switch
- lowDefective water inlet valve
Fixes
- easyOpen valves and test fill
- easyClean inlet screens
- mediumTest/replace pressure switch
- hardReplace inlet valve
FAQ
What is the first thing I should check if my washer won’t fill?
Ensure both water valves are fully open and inspect the inlet screens for debris. If nothing changes, move to the diagnostic flow to identify deeper faults.
Start by checking the water valves and inlet screens; if still not filling, follow the diagnostic steps.
Can low household water pressure cause this problem?
Yes. Low water pressure can prevent the washer from filling properly. Check the main supply pressure or consult your water provider if pressure is consistently low.
Low water pressure can stop filling; check main supply pressure.
Is it safe to run the washer with a clogged inlet screen?
No. A clogged screen restricts flow and can cause pressure-related errors. Clean or replace the screen before running another cycle.
No—clean the screen before the next cycle.
How long do inlet hoses typically last?
Hoses should be inspected regularly and replaced every 5–7 years, or sooner if you notice wear, bulges, or leaks.
Replace hoses every 5–7 years or if you see wear.
What does a faulty pressure switch feel like?
A faulty switch may prevent filling or cause inconsistent water levels. It often requires testing with a multimeter or replacement.
A bad pressure switch stops filling; testing or replacement is usually needed.
When should I call a professional?
If basic checks don’t restore fill, or you suspect valve, switch, or control board failure, contact a licensed technician for diagnosis and repair.
Call a professional if basic checks fail or you suspect a valve or board issue.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Check valves first to fix most fills.
- Clean inlet screens to restore flow.
- Inspect for kinks and replace worn hoses.
