Kenmore Washer Won T Fill

Introduction

Is your Kenmore washer refusing to fill with water? This is a common issue that can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get laundry done. A washer that won’t fill means no clean clothes, wasted time, and potentially water damage if the issue is related to drainage. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent further complications and get your washer back in working order.

Common Causes of Kenmore Washer Won’t Fill

Several things can cause your Kenmore washer to not fill properly. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Water Supply Valves Turned Off: This is the most basic reason. Check if the hot and cold water supply valves behind the washer are fully open.
Kinked or Blocked Water Supply Hoses: The hoses connecting the water supply to your washer might be kinked, twisted, or clogged.
Defective Water Inlet Valve: This valve controls the flow of water into the washer. If it’s faulty, it might not open, even when it receives the signal from the control board.
Clogged Water Inlet Valve Screens: Small screens located where the water hoses connect to the washer can become clogged with sediment.
Faulty Lid Switch: Many washers won’t fill unless the lid switch is engaged, signaling that the lid is closed. If the switch is broken, the washer won’t start the fill cycle.
Pressure Switch Problems: This switch monitors the water level in the tub. If it’s malfunctioning, it might incorrectly tell the washer that the tub is already full.
Malfunctioning Water Level Sensor: Similar to the pressure switch, this sensor can prevent the washer from filling if it reads the wrong water level.
Control Board Issues: In some cases, the electronic control board that governs the washer’s functions might be failing to send the signal to open the water inlet valve.
Low Water Pressure: Insufficient water pressure in your home can prevent the washer from filling adequately.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that can help you pinpoint the exact problem:

Washer doesn’t fill at all, regardless of cycle.
Washer fills very slowly.
Washer fills with only hot or cold water, not both.
Washer hums or buzzes but doesn’t fill.
Washer fills but then immediately drains.
Error code displayed on the washer’s control panel (refer to your owner’s manual for the code’s meaning).

How to Fix Kenmore Washer Won’t Fill Step-by-Step Guide

Check Water Supply Valves: Make sure both the hot and cold water supply valves behind the washer are fully open. Turn them counterclockwise to open.
Inspect Water Supply Hoses: Check for kinks, twists, or damage in the hoses. Straighten out any kinks and replace damaged hoses.
Clean Water Inlet Valve Screens:
- Turn off the water supply valves.
- Disconnect the water hoses from the back of the washer.
- Use pliers to carefully remove the small screens from the inlet valve openings.
- Clean the screens under running water with a brush to remove sediment.
- Reinstall the screens and reconnect the hoses.
Test Water Pressure: Connect a hose to the water supply valve and check the water pressure. It should be adequate and consistent. If it’s low, consult a plumber.
Check the Lid Switch:
- Visually inspect the lid switch to ensure it’s not broken or damaged.
- Try manually pressing the switch (with the washer unplugged!) to see if it clicks. If it doesn’t, it might be faulty.
Check the Water Level Pressure Switch Hose: Locate the small hose going from the tub to the pressure switch. Make sure it’s firmly connected and not cracked, pinched or blocked.
Restart the Washer: Turn off the washer by unplugging it from the electrical outlet, wait a minute or two and plug it back.
Check Error Codes: If there is an error code, use the Washer Model Number, search on the internet with keyword “Kenmore washer Model # error code”, and find the cause from the error code.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Washer Reset: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes to reset the electronic controls.
Thorough Cleaning: Periodically clean the washer’s drum and dispenser to prevent buildup that could affect water flow.
Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check for wear and tear on hoses every few months to prevent leaks and blockages.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, you might need to replace a faulty part. Here are some possibilities:

Water Inlet Valve: Replacement cost can range from $30-$70.
Lid Switch: Replacement cost can range from $20-$50.
Pressure Switch: Replacement cost can range from $25-$60.
Control Board: Replacement cost can be significant, ranging from $100-$300 or more.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the electrical outlet before performing any troubleshooting or repairs.
Avoid working on the washer with wet hands or on a wet floor.
Be careful when handling tools to avoid injury.

Tools You May Need

Pliers
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Bucket
Small brush or toothbrush
Adjustable wrench

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kenmore washers that won’t fill:

Q: Why is my Kenmore washer making noise but not filling? A: This could be due to a faulty water inlet valve.
Q: How do I know if my lid switch is broken? A: Visually inspect the switch for damage, and try manually pressing it to see if it clicks. If it doesn’t, it’s likely faulty.
Q: Can low water pressure cause my washer not to fill? A: Yes, low water pressure can significantly affect the washer’s ability to fill properly.
Q: What should I do if my washer fills and then immediately drains? A: This could be a problem with the drain hose being too low, creating a siphoning effect, or with a faulty drain pump.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore washer that won’t fill can seem daunting, but with a systematic approach, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to start with the simplest solutions, such as checking the water supply and hoses, before moving on to more complex issues. If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.