The water level in the washing machine – does it take in too much or too little water (overflow and underflow)
In today's world, many washing machine manufacturers are working to develop more efficient and economical models. They strive to create machines that consume less electricity and water.
Automatic machines vary in these parameters. The amount of water used can also vary depending on the selected program and washing cycle. Typically, a small amount of water is required when selecting a wash cycle for coarse fabrics. Slightly more is needed for synthetic and delicate items. The largest amount of water is used during the rinse cycle. It's worth noting that newer washing machines are generally more efficient than their older counterparts. This means they consume less water throughout the entire wash cycle.
Why do you need a level sensor?
As the name suggests, the level sensor monitors the level of water entering the tank. It is active and performs its functions throughout the entire washing process. It must draw in and maintain the correct amount of water for each specific operation.
The washing machine takes in a lot of water.
If your washing machine is overfilling (taking in too much water), the following problems may occur:
- The water inlet valve is faulty, in which case water continues to flow in all the time.
- The pressure switch (level sensor) is broken. This could also cause this malfunction.
- This problem can also occur during the very first wash, if your washing machine was transported horizontally.
- Incorrect installation of the washing machine.
We are troubleshooting the problem
First, we recommend checking that the washing machine is connected to the water supply correctly.
You can find exact information on how high the drain and inlet hoses can be located from the floor in the operating instructions for your household appliance. After checking, you can proceed to the next step: filling and emptying the tank two or three times. This is done using the buttons or other controls on the machine.
Intake valve malfunction
Once the water has drained, check to see if water is still flowing into the detergent dispenser. If it is, the problem lies with the valve that controls the water inlet. Also, with this malfunction, water can pour into the tank even when the washing machine is turned off. This can happen due to a breakdown intake valve, or because it's clogged. The surest way to get rid of this problem is to replace this part.
You can learn how to make this replacement yourself by watching the video:
If this happens, first turn off the water supply to the washing machine. Only then can you replace the valve yourself (remember to disconnect the power to the machine first) or call a professional. Leaving the valve open can cause water to fill the entire tank and leak out.
The water drains itself
This problem can occur even if the machine is properly connected. This can occur because the pressure in the sewer system is very low, causing water to simply be drawn back into the system as it leaves the washing machine's tub. To solve this problem, we recommend purchasing a non-return valve and installing it in the hose break. This will prevent the machine from draining in this way.
Plumbing problems
If water is pouring in very slowly or not at all, it is worth checking the presence of water and the pressure in the water pipe. To do this, simply open the kitchen faucet (or bathroom faucet). If you see no water flowing, it's likely that someone has turned it off. If the water is flowing, but only very slowly, it's because the pressure is low. This can cause water to fill the tank very slowly. To resolve this issue, we recommend contacting your local utility company. They may already be aware of this problem in your building. In this case, they'll be able to provide a timeline for fixing it. Or, they may not even be aware of the issue. In this case, they should be notified so they can address the issue.
It's also worth checking the tap that shuts off the water supply to the machine. It may not be fully open or closed. If your problem is that water isn't filling, you can also read this article: Washing machine not filling with water.
Malfunction of the level relay (sensor) or its tube
This malfunction most often manifests itself as follows: water continues to fill after the machine starts and does not stop. To confirm that the sensor is the problem, remove the sensor tube and inspect it for damage or holes. If the tube is leaking, it must be replaced. If the level sensor itself is faulty, it must be replaced.
You can watch a video instruction on replacing the level sensor (relay) below:
We wish you success in your DIY repairs and a long life for your appliances! Have a great day!
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I have an automatic washing machine. It worked flawlessly for several years. Today, I started washing, and it just keeps filling with water, without stopping. How can I determine if the water level sensor is working properly before replacing it? It might not be the problem.
Hello! Perhaps this information will be useful to someone. I recently encountered a problem: during the rinse cycle, my LG WD12395NDK machine would fill with water nonstop (until the tank was full :)) and wouldn't spin. The problem was a clogged plastic lower part of the hose connecting the pressure switch to the pump and tank. Ten minutes and you can forget about this problem for years!
I'm also experiencing a strange issue with my Siltal sx428 washing machine—it would overflow into the drum, followed by the motor stopping until the water drained. Now something else has happened (but the water level is normal): after 30-40 minutes of operation—when washing or rinsing, instead of the drum spinning steadily, it suddenly spins (jumps) and then stops. This happens three times, and the motor stops until the water drains. If I turn the machine off for 5-10 minutes after these 1-2 "jumps," everything finishes washing normally (as usual). What's happening with my machine? — question
Most likely, the tachometer (engine speed sensor) needs to be replaced or the contacts cleaned. Water may have gotten in there.
LG machine, there is no water visible in the tank at all, is this normal?
Ours also washes semi-dry laundry on a quick wash cycle. And when it cleans the drum, it fills up to a third of the glass.
Good afternoon. Could you please tell me if I can use the spin cycle of my Indesit washing machine even though there's currently no water in the tap?