Samsung Top Load Washing Machine Water Not Filling

Introduction

A washing machine that refuses to fill with water can be a major headache! It stops you from doing laundry, and quickly creates a backlog of dirty clothes. This problem often happens suddenly, or sometimes gradually, where you notice the water filling slower and slower. Addressing it promptly can prevent further damage to your washing machine and save you a potentially expensive repair bill. Let’s walk through the most common causes and how you can fix them.

Common Causes of Samsung Top Load Washing Machine Water Not Filling

Here are some common reasons why your Samsung top load washing machine might not be filling with water:

Closed Water Supply Valves: The most common culprit! Make sure both the hot and cold water valves connected to the washing machine are fully open.
Kinked or Blocked Water Hoses: The hoses that bring water to the machine can become kinked, preventing water flow. They can also become blocked with sediment.
Clogged Inlet Filters: Small filters are located where the water hoses connect to the washing machine. These filters can get clogged with debris over time.
Low Water Pressure: If the water pressure in your home is too low, the washing machine might not be able to fill properly.
Faulty Water Inlet Valve: This valve controls the flow of water into the washing machine. If it’s defective, it may not open properly.
Lid Switch Issues: Top-load washers often have a lid switch that must be engaged for the machine to operate. A faulty switch can prevent the machine from filling.
Control Board Problems: In some cases, the electronic control board may be malfunctioning and preventing the water inlet valve from opening.
Drain Hose Issues: If the drain hose is too low, the water may be siphoning out as it enters.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the exact nature of your problem:

The washing machine starts, but no water enters the drum.
The washing machine fills very slowly.
You hear a humming sound, but no water flows.
The washing machine displays an error code related to water filling.
The washing machine fills with water, but immediately drains.

How to Fix Samsung Top Load Washing Machine Water Not Filling Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Samsung top load washing machine:

Check the Water Supply Valves: Ensure both the hot and cold water supply valves connected to the washing machine are fully open. Turn them counterclockwise to open them fully.
Inspect the Water Hoses: Check the water hoses for kinks, bends, or twists. Straighten out any kinks. Disconnect the hoses from both the washing machine and the water supply valves, and check for any blockages. Clean them out if necessary.
Clean the Inlet Filters: Locate the inlet filters where the water hoses connect to the back of the washing machine. Turn off the water supply. Disconnect the hoses. Use pliers to carefully remove the filters. Clean them with a brush and water, removing any sediment or debris. Reinstall the filters and reconnect the hoses.
Check Water Pressure: Test the water pressure in your home by turning on other faucets. If the water pressure is low, contact your local water company.
Check the Lid Switch: Make sure the lid is closing properly and engaging the lid switch. You may hear a click when the lid is closed. If the lid switch is damaged, it might need replacement, but often cleaning the area around it to remove dirt is enough.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose is properly positioned. It should be elevated to prevent siphoning. It shouldn’t be sitting on the floor. Refer to your washing machine’s user manual for the correct drain hose height.
Run a Calibration Cycle: Some Samsung washing machines have a calibration cycle that can help resolve water level issues. Consult your user manual for instructions on how to run a calibration cycle.
Unplug and Reset: Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet for 1-2 minutes. Plug it back in and try running a wash cycle. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Check for Error Codes: Take note of any error codes displayed on the washing machine’s control panel. Look up the error code in your user manual or online to identify the cause of the problem.
Listen for Unusual Noises: When the machine is supposed to be filling, listen for any unusual noises coming from the water inlet valve area. A humming sound without water flow could indicate a faulty valve.
Test Hot and Cold Separately: Try running a cycle with only hot water and then a cycle with only cold water to see if the problem is with one specific water supply.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve the “water not filling” issue with some simple troubleshooting steps that don’t require any replacement parts:

Reset the Machine: As mentioned before, unplugging the machine for a few minutes can often resolve temporary glitches.
Clean the Inlet Filters: Regularly cleaning these filters prevents build-up and ensures proper water flow.
Run a Calibration Cycle: As mentioned before, follow the calibration cycle outlined in your user manual.
Inspect for Kinks and Blockages: Regularly check the hoses for kinks and clear any blockages before they become major problems.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still isn’t filling with water, a part may need replacing. A faulty water inlet valve is a common culprit. A replacement part usually costs between $30 and $75 USD, depending on the model. A faulty lid switch may also need replacement, costing between $20 and $50 USD. In rare cases, the control board may be the issue, which can cost $100-$300 USD. Consider calling a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair if you’re not comfortable replacing parts yourself.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
Turn off the water supply to the washing machine before disconnecting any water hoses.
Be careful when handling water near electrical components. Wipe up any spills immediately to prevent electric shock.
If you are not comfortable performing any of these repairs, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Pliers
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Adjustable wrench
Bucket
Old toothbrush or cleaning brush
Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions related to water filling problems:

Q: Why is my washing machine filling very slowly?
A: This is often due to clogged inlet filters or low water pressure. Clean the filters and check your home’s water pressure.
Q: My washing machine is making a humming noise but not filling. What’s wrong?
A: This is often a sign of a faulty water inlet valve.
Q: Can I use a regular garden hose to connect my washing machine to the water supply?
A: No, you should only use reinforced washing machine hoses specifically designed for this purpose.
Q: How often should I clean the inlet filters on my washing machine?
A: It’s a good idea to clean them every 6 months to a year, depending on the water quality in your area.
Q: What is the calibration cycle for, and how can it solve the issue?
A: Samsung washing machines use a calibration cycle to detect the drum’s weight and water level. Running a calibration will give your machine a baseline for optimum performance. Locate the instructions for your model in your owner’s manual, or online.

Conclusion

A Samsung top load washing machine not filling with water can be a frustrating problem, but hopefully, this guide has provided you with the knowledge and steps to diagnose and fix the issue yourself. Try these steps before calling a technician. With a little patience, you can often get your washing machine back up and running without having to spend a lot of money. If you still have problems after trying all of the above, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician.