Fix A Washing Machine That’s Overflowing

Has your washing machine ever overflowed? If it has, it was likely caused by a problem with the water inlet valve or level switch. Many people who see their washing machine overflowing may panic and call a service professional, thinking that the situation is critical. However, the reality is that this is a problem you can easily fix on your own. In fact, it is easy to diagnose the problem and replace the defective part without having to spend more than a few dollars. This blog post will show you a few easy, DIY techniques to fix an overflowing washing machine.

Detecting the Problem

When a washing machine overflows, the water flow inside the drum either goes above the normal level or reaches the top of the door glass. Turn off the washing machine and half fill it with water. Then unplug the machine and check whether the water is still running or has stopped. If the water continues to run, there may be a problem with either the water level switch or the inlet valve.

Check the Water Level Switch

The first thing you need to check is the pressure switch, also known as the water level switch. The pressure switch keeps a check on the water level and tells the washer to stop filling. If the water stops running after you unplug the machine, it implies there is a problem with the water level switch. Usually, the pressure switch is clogged or the tube connected to the switch vibrated off and led to overfilling.

Replacing the Pressure Switch

• Unplug the washing machine and remove the dial used to select the load size.
• Remove the plastic end caps on the control panels.
• Remove the screws from the control panel by turning them clockwise and pull up on the panel.
• Remove the cover from the pressure switch on the left side of the panel. This will expose the clear hose present beneath the pressure switch.
• You also need to remove the screws that secure the water level switch.
• Attach the wiring and the hose to a new water level switch and place the switch back in its original position. Subsequently, secure it either with clamps or screws depending on how the old switch was placed.
• Reassemble the control panel. Replace the dial on the control panel and plug in the washer.

Check the Water Inlet Valve

If you could not find any issue with the pressure switch, chances are there may be a problem with the water inlet valve. If the water continues to run even after you turn off the machine, then the inlet valve needs checking.

Replacing the Inlet Valve

• Turn off the shutoff valves of the water supply lines by rotating them clockwise. This will prevent the water from running into the machine.
• Remove the plastic end caps on the control panel. Remove the control panel by turning the screws clockwise.
• Unplug the sensor wire beneath the control panel. Remove the spring clips and tilt the cabinet to remove it.
• Remove the water supply lines by unscrewing them and clean the spilled water with a piece of cloth.
• Pull off the wires on the terminals of the water inlet valve and remove the valve by unscrewing the mounting screw. Press the hose clamp, slide it off the valve and clean the spilled water.
• Place the hose on a new inlet valve and secure it by moving the hose clamp. Insert the screw and connect the wire connectors to the terminal of the new valve.
• Replace the control panel, water supply lines and cabinet and turn the water on.

There you go—some quick and easy steps to troubleshoot the problem of an overflowing washing machine. If you follow the above steps, you should be able to solve the issue yourself. However, if you’re not very confident in your plumbing abilities, call Terry’s Plumbing. We’re always ready to help solve all your plumbing problems.