Why your washing machine keeps filling with water: causes and fixes

⚡️Fast fix

• Unplug the washer. Water and electricity don't mix, so unplug it for safety. 
• Switch off the water. Close the hot and cold shut-off valves behind the washer. 
• Drain the water. Empty the drum by running a drain or drain-and-spin cycle. 
• Check the lid. If the latch jams, the machine may get stuck mid-cycle. 

You've got your laundry routine down pat. Wash, dry, pile it on a chair, eventually fold it, repeat. But this time, you discover your washing machine filled with water. Instead of slightly damp clothes ready for the dryer, you've got a cold, sopping mess. 

At Asurion, we know how frustrating it is when your appliances don't work. Whether you have an overflowing washer or a washer that's not spinning, we'll help you get your chore day back on track. Here's how to drain and troubleshoot a washer filled with water. 

Common reasons a washing machine won't stop filling

Sometimes, a washer may overflow during an ordinary rinse cycle. Or maybe your washing machine fills with water when not in use. 

Here are a few washer overfilling causes: 

• A broken water inlet valve 
• A drain pump filter clog 
• A pressure switch malfunction 
• Low water pressure 
• Debris has clogged the water level switch 
• A glitchy control board

For example, if your water inlet valve jams open, it won't shut off the flow of water at the right time. Lint is another common culprit that can clog the drain pump or water level switch.

Checking the pressure switch and lid latch

If your washer keeps filling with water and then draining, you may have a faulty pressure switch. 

This switch monitors air pressure as the machine fills. When the water reaches the correct level, it tells the control board to shut the water off. If the switch malfunctions, this signal doesn't get sent. 

Top-load machines usually have a pressure switch knob on the control panel. Open the upper cabinet to find the switch itself. 

If you have a front-load machine, remove the top panel or unscrew the back of the control panel to access it. 

Next, follow these steps to check the pressure switch. You'll need a multimeter probe to test the voltage.

1. Disconnect the wires connecting the switch and air pressure tube. 
2. Inspect the tube for clogs and damage. If you see cracks or holes, it's time to replace it. 
3. Remove the wire harness to detach the pressure switch. 
4. Connect one multimeter probe to the power terminal and another to the water inlet valve terminal. If you hear a tone, your switch is working properly. 
5. Softly blow into the hose fitting. If it doesn't lose continuity, the contacts have fused and need to be replaced. 

The lid latch also communicates with the control panel to start and stop the flow of water. If the washing machine won't start or gets stuck mid-cycle, the latch may not be closing properly. 

Here's how to test your washing machine lid latch: 

1. Open and close the washer lid. Do you hear a click? If not, the latch isn't locking. 
2. Gently touch the lid latch to check for physical damage. If it feels loose or cracked, a professional can help you replace it.

How to troubleshoot filling and drainage issues at home

If you see standing water in the washer drum, it could be a drainage issue. 

Before you can investigate, you need to empty the machine. Follow these steps: 

1. Unplug the washing machine. 
2. Try running a drain or spin cycle. 
3. If that doesn't work, open the washer filter to let the water drain into a bucket or tub. Be sure to protect your floors with towels in case the water spills. 

Once the machine is empty, try these troubleshooting tips: 

1. Check the drain hose for kinks or twists.  
2. Disconnect the hose from the standpipe and look for blockages. If it's clogged with lint or dirt, the water can't drain. 
3. Remove and clean the laundry filter. It's usually hidden behind a small hatch at the front of the machine or under the central agitator. Rinse this filter thoroughly to remove debris. 

Learn how to clean a front-loading washing machine to prevent future drainage issues. 

When to call a pro for your washing machine repair

Most people can fix a simple clog or kinked hose by themselves. If you have a newer machine with a screen, look for an error code to help you pinpoint the issue. 

However, consider calling a repair professional if: 

• Your washing machine keeps leaking, and you can't find the source. 
• The washer doesn't respond when you push buttons, or the screen goes dark. These are signs that your control panel is failing.
• You have low water pressure. 
• You smell something burning when you turn on your washer.
• The door won't lock or unlock.