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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Washer
  4. Washer not filling

Whirlpool washer not filling

Common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not filling

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

  • 70%

    70% 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

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool washer

    Water Valve Assembly Replacement

    The water valve assembly controls water flow into the washer. A clogged water valve inlet screen will prevent the wash tub from filling with hot water, cold water or both. Electrical failures in the valve may also prevent the valve from opening to allow water into the tub. The valve connects your home’s water supply to the washer. A faulty valve may begin leaking into the tub or around the connections to the water supply hoses. If you suspect a faulty water valve assembly, have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the washer and replace the valve if needed.


    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.

    Water Level Pressure Switch Replacement

    If the water-level pressure switch in a washer is bad, it loses its ability to sense, control, and maintain the water level in the outer wash tub. This failure may result in the washer not filling or overfilling with water. The pressure switch operates using an air tube attached to the bottom of the tub, which senses the water level. As the wash tub fills, 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, thereby controlling the water fill and shutting off the water when the washer is full. If any components of the water-level pressure switch fail, have a Sears Home Services repair technician replace the switch.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool washer not filling issue

    How is the not filling problem fixed?

    Correcting most not filling problems usually involves replacing the water valve assembly, electronic control board or water level pressure switch. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not filling

    When the washer is not filling it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

    What to look out for with a washer not filling diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Filling with Water

    Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Filling with Water

    If your Whirlpool Cabrio washer is not filling with water, the issue might be with the water inlet valve. When this component is clogged or malfunctioning, your washer won't fill with water. Check the valve for any obstructions and ensure it's receiving the necessary electrical signals to open and close properly. Another potential culprit could be the water level pressure switch, which helps the washer sense the correct water level. If this switch fails, the washer might not fill at all, or it could overfill.

    It's important to verify that your home's water supply is functioning correctly and that the hoses connecting to the washer are not kinked or blocked. Sometimes, a simple issue like a kinked hose can prevent your Whirlpool washer from filling with water. If these steps do not resolve the problem, it may be time to consult a professional technician to inspect and repair your Whirlpool Cabrio washer.

    Whirlpool Washer Sensing Fill Not Working

    When your Whirlpool washer's sensing fill is not working, it often indicates a problem with the electronic control board or the water level pressure switch. The electronic control board acts as the brain of the washer, managing various functions including the water fill process. If this board malfunctions, your Whirlpool washer won't fill correctly or might not fill at all. Replacing a faulty control board usually requires professional assistance to ensure proper installation and configuration.

    The water level pressure switch is another critical component that could be at fault. This switch detects the water level in the washer's tub and communicates with the control board to stop filling once the appropriate level is reached. If the switch is defective, the sensing fill function won't work, and the washer may not fill with water. Regular maintenance, such as checking the air tube connected to the switch for any blockages or damage, can prevent issues. If problems persist, seeking help from a qualified technician is advisable to avoid further complications with your Whirlpool washer.

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    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.

    Additional possible Whirlpool washer symptoms you may experience