Sears Home Services
Sears Home Advantage
appointment lookup logoAppointment Lookup
telephone logo646-440-2692
RepairHome WarrantyTune-Up & MaintainFencingShop Parts
Resources
RepairHome WarrantyTune-Up & MaintainFencingShop PartsResource CenterGlossaryHelp
sears home advantageSears Home Advantageappointment lookup logoAppointment Lookup
  1. Repair

Washer not filling

Common reasons your washer not filling

The most common reasons your washer is not filling are a clogged water valve assembly, malfunctioning electronic control board or a bad water level pressure switch.

  • 59%

    59% of the time it's the
    Water Valve Assembly

  • 10%

    10% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 7%

    7% of the time it's the
    Water Level Pressure Switch

  • 24%

    24% of the time it's the
    Something else

  • Use The Repair or Replace Calculator

    Determine What's Best For Your Appliance

    Product Type
    Home Appliance Brand
    How Old Is Your Appliance?

    Common washer repair parts you may need

    Replacing one of these washer parts may fix your problem.

    Water Valve Assembly Replacement

    The water valve assembly regulates the flow of water into the washer. An obstructed inlet screen on the water valve can hinder the wash tub from filling with hot, cold, or both types of water. Electrical malfunctions within the valve might also impede its opening to permit water entry into the tub. This valve serves as the link between your home's water supply and the washer. A defective valve might lead to leakage into the tub or at the points where the water supply hoses connect. If you suspect a faulty water valve assembly, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional examine the washer and replace the valve if necessary.


    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    A defective electronic control board could be the reason why the washer is not filling. This component controls the water valve that sends water to the tub, among other essential functions, and if it malfunctions, the washer may not fill properly or at all.

    Water Level Pressure Switch Replacement

    If the water-level pressure switch in a washer is faulty, it's no longer able to detect, regulate, and maintain the water level in the outer wash tub. This malfunction can cause the washer to either not fill with water or to overfill. The pressure switch operates by using an air tube connected to the bottom of the tub, which senses the water level. As the wash tub fills, the air pressure in the tube pushes up on a diaphragm inside the water-level pressure switch. A post attached to the diaphragm opens and closes electrical contacts within the switch's body, thus managing the water fill and shutting off the water when the washer is full. If any part of the water-level pressure switch fails, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services repair technician replace the switch.

    What to expect when you experience a washer not filling issue

    What to do about a not filling problem

    Fixing most issues related to the washer not filling typically requires replacing the water valve assembly, electronic control board, or water level pressure switch. However, since there could be various reasons behind the problem, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving it. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the cost of the repair.

    Follow these tips from Sears Home Services for a washer that is not filling

    Many things can cause a washer not filling problem. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling washer repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are trained on diagnosing all types of washer failures.

    What to watch for with a washer not filling diagnosis

    Appliances today have advanced electronic components, making DIY repairs difficult. Without proper knowledge and training, diagnosing issues with modern appliances can be challenging. Merely replacing parts without employing appropriate diagnostic techniques is unlikely to resolve your washer problem effectively. Over the past decade, appliances have significantly evolved, with many models featuring intricate electronic parts that are hard to assess. Consequently, DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more challenging.

    What our customers say about us

    With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

    Thanks

    Thanks for your expert analysis of the problem that caused the flooding of my home .I was scared the first few times I used the machine , but all is working great.


    Frank U, Coconut Creek, FL

    Excellent service.

    Pleasant person to work with. He explains things to you.


    Jacklyn J, Bessemer, AL

    Very Professional

    Very professional, thoughtful and knowledgeable I would highly recommend him.


    Marilyn W, Covington, LA

    Repair Washer Resources

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Pressure Transducer Work?"
    5 min readDec. 05

    Learn how a pressure transducer works to detect water level in a washing machine.

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Top Load Washing Machine Work?"
    10 min readDec. 04

    Learn how a top-load washing machine works and how to use and maintain the washer.

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Mixing Valve Work?"
    6 min readNov. 26

    Learn how a mixing valve works to control water temperature in a washer.

    What's the Reason Behind My Washer Drum Being Loose and Banging Around image
    6 min readNov. 18

    Learn why your washer drum is loose and banging around and get professional advice on fixing it. Contact Sears Home Services for a reliable repair service.

    Glossary Terms

    Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

    A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

    A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

    Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.

    Common washer symptoms to look out for

    • Washer won't turn off
    • Washer won't start cycle
    • Washer will not drain
    • Washer vibrates
    • Washer not working
    • Washer not washing
    • Washer not turning on
    • Washer not starting
    • Washer not spinning
    • Washer not draining
    • Washer not agitating
    • Washer noisy
    • Washer no water
    • Washer no power
    • Washer leaking water
    • Washer leaking from bottom
    • Washer display not working
    • Washer burning smell