Kenmore Washing Machine: not stopping filling and not cycling

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine continuously filling with water and failing to advance to the agitation or spin cycle? This issue may stem from a faulty water inlet valve, pressure switch, or even a malfunctioning control board. Addressing these common causes promptly can prevent further damage and restore your washer's functionality.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Pressure switch hose disconnect or fault specifically reported for continuous filling.

Possible Causes

Faulty water inlet valve stuck open

How to Identify: Continuous water flow even when cycle paused or power off (if power off and water still flows.

Part: Water inlet valve

Faulty water level/pressure switch or hose

How to Identify: No signal to stop filling; pressure hose pinched/clogged or switch defective; continuous fill.

Part: Water level switch and pressure/air hose

Malfunctioning main control board/electronics

How to Identify: Incorrect signals cause endless fill or failure to advance cycle; other functions erratic.

Part: Control board/timer

Drain hose/backflow or improper installation

How to Identify: Water appears to flow back into tub due to improper hose height or siphoning; seems like continuous fill.

Part: Drain hose

DIY Solutions

Inspect and clean pressure hose and switch

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, soft cloth, pipe cleaner
  1. Unplug washer and shut off water supply.
  2. Access pressure hose from control panel area and inspect for kinks/clogs.
  3. Blow gently through hose to confirm airflow; clear debris.
  4. Reconnect hose and test a cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power off before internal access.

Check drain hose placement to prevent backflow

Easy 10-15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Ensure drain hose is elevated per instructions (usually above tub water level).
  2. Make sure hose is not inserted too far into standpipe.
  3. Run a test cycle.

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace pressure switch or control board

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300+

When to Call a Professional

Water continues flowing even after shutting off power and water supply
Internal electrical diagnostics required

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect pressure hose for debris: Pressure switch misreads and continuous fill issues
    Frequency: annual

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine not stopping filling and not cycling?
This issue is often caused by a faulty water inlet valve, pressure switch, or control board malfunction.
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine not stopping filling and not cycling myself?
Inspect the pressure hose for clogs and ensure the drain hose is correctly positioned to prevent backflow.
How much does it cost to fix not stopping filling and not cycling?
Professional repairs typically range from $50 to $300+, depending on the part that needs replacement.
When should I call a technician for not stopping filling and not cycling?
Call a technician if DIY solutions fail or if you're uncomfortable performing repairs, as the issue is urgent.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty water level pressure switch
  • Clogged or kinked pressure hose
  • Defective water inlet valve

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the water level pressure switch if faulty. Locate the switch, disconnect the power, and check for continuity. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check the pressure hose for clogs or kinks. Detach the hose and inspect for blockages. Clean or replace the hose as needed.

  3. Test the water inlet valve for proper operation. Disconnect the water supply, remove the valve, and check for continuity. Replace if defective.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Old Kenmore washer won't stop filling and doesn't move throu...

Community Discussions

won't stop filling and doesn't move through the cycle

Check the pressure switch and pressure hose for clogs or disconnections.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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