Amana Washer Fills Then Stops

Introduction

Is your Amana washing machine filling with water and then unexpectedly stopping? This frustrating problem can prevent you from doing laundry and waste water. It often happens mid-cycle, leaving your clothes soaking but unwashed. Addressing this promptly can save you from potential water damage and the inconvenience of not having clean clothes. Let’s get your washer working again!

Common Causes of Amana Washer Fills Then Stops

Here are some common reasons why your Amana washer might be filling and then stopping:

• Low Water Pressure: Not enough water pressure entering the machine can cause it to stop filling.
• Kinked or Blocked Water Inlet Hoses: A bent or clogged hose restricts water flow.
• Faulty Water Inlet Valve: This valve controls water entering the washer. If it’s defective, it may close prematurely.
• Clogged Inlet Valve Screens: Small screens filter debris from the water supply. They can become clogged over time.
• Air Lock in the Water Line: Air trapped in the water line can prevent proper water flow.
• Drain Hose Issues: If the drain hose is too low or siphoning water, the washer might prematurely stop filling.
• Pressure Switch Problems: The pressure switch detects the water level. A faulty switch might incorrectly signal that the washer is full.
• Lid Switch Malfunction: Some washers won’t operate if the lid switch isn’t properly engaged.
• Control Board Issues: In rare cases, the control board could be malfunctioning, causing the filling process to halt.

Symptoms Checklist

Check if any of these apply to your situation:

• The washer starts filling, then abruptly stops before reaching the normal water level.
• You hear the water inlet valve clicking on and off repeatedly.
• The water pressure in your house seems normal, but the washer still doesn’t fill properly.
• The washer fills for a very short time, then stops and displays an error code.
• The washer fills and then immediately drains the water.

How to Fix Amana Washer Fills Then Stops Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Amana washer:

1. Check Water Supply: Make sure both hot and cold water supply valves are fully open.
2. Inspect Water Inlet Hoses: Look for kinks, bends, or blockages in the hoses connected to the back of the washer. Straighten any kinks.
3. Clean Inlet Valve Screens: Turn off the water supply to the washer. Carefully disconnect the water inlet hoses. Inside the hose connections on the back of the washer, you’ll find small screens. Remove these and clean them with a brush to remove any debris. Reinstall the screens and hoses.
4. Check Water Pressure: Test the water pressure at the faucet nearest the washer. Low pressure can be the culprit.
5. Inspect Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose is properly positioned and not inserted too far into the drainpipe. It should have an air gap to prevent siphoning.
6. Check for Air Lock: Turn off the water supply. Disconnect the water inlet hoses. Place the hose ends in a bucket. Slowly turn the water supply back on to release any trapped air.
7. Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer from the power outlet for 1-2 minutes. Plug it back in and try running a cycle. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve the issue.
8. Check Lid Switch: Make sure the lid is fully closed and the lid switch is engaging properly. Sometimes, a simple adjustment or cleaning of the switch area is all that’s needed.
9. Run a Calibration Cycle (If Available): Some Amana washers have a calibration cycle. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to run it. This can help the washer relearn the water level settings.
10. Listen for Unusual Noises: While the washer is attempting to fill, listen for any unusual noises coming from the water inlet valve or the drain pump. These noises can indicate a problem.
11. Check Error Codes: If your washer has a digital display, check for any error codes that might be displayed. Consult your owner’s manual to understand the meaning of the code.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many times, this issue can be resolved without buying any new parts:

• Reset: As mentioned, unplugging the washer for a few minutes is often a simple fix.
• Cleaning: Thoroughly cleaning the inlet valve screens and checking for hose obstructions is key.
• Recalibration: Running a calibration cycle can resolve issues related to water level sensing.
• Inspection Tips: Carefully inspecting the hoses, water valves, and drain hose positioning is vital.
• Maintenance Basics: Regularly cleaning your washer with a washer cleaner can prevent future problems.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still fills and stops, a part might need to be replaced. The water inlet valve ($30-$75 USD), the pressure switch ($20-$60 USD), or, in rare cases, the control board ($100-$300 USD) are the most common culprits. Before replacing anything, consider contacting a qualified appliance repair technician for a professional diagnosis.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
• Turn off the water supply to the washer before disconnecting any water hoses.
• Be careful when handling water near electrical components.
• Clean up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Small brush (for cleaning screens)
• Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: Why is my washer filling so slowly? A: Low water pressure or clogged inlet valve screens are the most likely causes.
• Q: Can a faulty drain pump cause this issue? A: Yes, if the drain pump is running constantly, it can drain water as the washer is filling.
• Q: What does it mean if I hear a buzzing sound when the washer is trying to fill? A: This could indicate a problem with the water inlet valve.
• Q: How do I know if the pressure switch is bad? A: If the washer overfills or doesn’t fill at all, the pressure switch may be faulty.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting your Amana washer can be a rewarding experience. By following these steps, you’ll often find a simple solution without the need for expensive repairs. If you’ve exhausted these methods and the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They have the expertise to diagnose and fix more complex issues. Good luck getting your washer back in working order!

Youtube Video: