Whirlpool Washing Machine: not filling

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Whirlpool washing machine isn't filling with water during a wash cycle, it may indicate issues with water supply, hoses, or the water inlet valve. Common symptoms include no water entering the drum, a prolonged fill time, or an error code. Addressing these problems quickly can save time and prevent further damage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Some Whirlpool models display error code E1 for inability to fill with water, indicating checks like water supply and inlet screen blockages are needed.

Possible Causes

Water supply valves closed / inadequate household water supply

How to Identify: Verify both hot and cold water supply valves behind washer are fully open; check that other household faucets have normal water flow.

Part: Water supply valves / hoses

Clogged inlet hose screens or kinked hoses

How to Identify: Inspect inlet hoses for kinks; disconnect hoses and check screens for sediment or mineral buildup.

Part: Inlet hoses and screens

Faulty water inlet valve

How to Identify: No water enters washer despite supply open; test valve solenoids with multimeter for continuity; low or no response indicates failure.

Part: Water inlet valve Solenoid

DIY Solutions

Verify Water Supply and Hose Connections

Easy 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: None
  1. Ensure both hot and cold water supply valves behind washer are fully turned on.
  2. Pull washer from wall and check inlet hoses are not kinked or pinched.
  3. Disconnect hoses, run water through them into a bucket to check flow.
  4. Reattach hoses securely and test fill cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply before disconnecting hoses.

Clean Inlet Hose Screens

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Pliers, Soft brush (toothbrush)
  1. Shut off water supply at valves.
  2. Unscrew inlet hoses from back of washer.
  3. Inspect small fine screens at hose connection on washer and hoses for debris.
  4. Rinse and gently scrub screens, reassemble and test water fill.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid damaging fine mesh screens.

Inspect and Test Lid/Door Switch

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter (optional)
  1. Close lid/door firmly and ensure click engages switch.
  2. If washer still won’t fill, remove access panel to inspect switch wiring.
  3. Use multimeter to test continuity across switch when lid closed; replace if defective.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug washer before accessing internal components.

Professional Repairs

Replace Faulty Water Inlet Valve

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Replace Water Level Pressure Switch

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Control Board/Timer Diagnosis and Repair

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Multiple components fail diagnostics (inlet valve, pressure switch)
Internal electrical faults suspected
Uncomfortable with internal disassembly or electrical testing

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean inlet screens: Clogged screens causing slow or no fill
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Inspect hoses for kinks or wear: Restricted water flow due to hose issues
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not filling?
Common causes include closed water supply valves, clogged inlet hose screens, or a faulty water inlet valve.
How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not filling myself?
Check water supply valves, clean inlet hose screens, and inspect the lid switch for issues.
How much does it cost to fix not filling?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $300 depending on the issue, like replacing the water inlet valve.
When should I call a technician for not filling?
If DIY solutions fail or if you're uncomfortable with electrical components, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Water inlet valve failure (1 mentions)
  • Control board malfunction (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Ordered suspension rod kit

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Whirlpool Cabrio Will not Fill
  2. Whirlpool ThinTwin washer not working, dryer works

Community Discussions

Washer will not fill

Ordered suspension rod kit to address fill issue; previous diagnostics indicated control board and inlet valve likely not the problem.

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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