General owner-safe guideLast reviewed July 31, 2026

Washing machine not filling

The washer starts but little or no water enters, or a fill error appears.

Start hereKeep the washer off while checking the hoses and taps.

Narrow it down

What this symptom can tell you

No water sound at all

The cycle may not have started, the door or lid may not be recognized as closed, or the water supply may be off.

Water enters very slowly

A partly closed valve, bent hose, low household pressure, or a model-specific inlet restriction may be involved.

Only hot or only cold water enters

One supply valve may be closed, a hose may be kinked, or the connections may not match the labels on the washer.

These patterns narrow the next check; they do not confirm a failed part. Use the exact model number and any displayed code before ordering parts or authorizing repair.

Try these checks in order

Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.

  1. 1

    Open both water taps

    Turn the hot and cold supply taps fully open, even when using a cold cycle. Some washers check both inlets.

    What you want: Water is available at both hoses.
  2. 2

    Inspect inlet hoses

    Look for sharp bends, crushing, freezing, or visible damage. Replace a damaged hose instead of straightening a split or bulged area.

    What you want: Both hoses have a clear path.
  3. 3

    Confirm the door or lid is closed

    Remove clothing from the latch area and close the door firmly. Do not force or bypass the lock.

    What you want: The door closes normally and the lock indicator can engage.
  4. 4

    Check the selected cycle

    Cancel the cycle, wait one minute, then choose a normal cycle without Delay Start, Soak, or a special low-water option.

    What you want: A normal cycle begins without a delay setting.
  5. 5

    Check household water flow

    Test a nearby faucet. Very low pressure, a closed home valve, or plumbing work can prevent filling.

    What you want: Nearby cold and hot water flow normally.

Most common categories

Possible causes to consider

  • Closed or partly closed hot or cold water valves.
  • Kinked, crushed, frozen, or damaged inlet hoses.
  • A selected cycle, delay, control lock, or door/lid condition that prevents filling.
  • Low household water pressure or work being done on the water supply.
  • An inlet valve, sensor, wiring, or control issue that needs service.

Stop and arrange help when

  • An inlet hose is swollen, split, or leaking.
  • Water reaches electrical parts or the floor near the cord.
  • The inlet valve chatters, smells hot, or does not stop filling.
  • The problem remains after normal household water flow is confirmed.

If the problem remains

Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.

Outcome check

Did these checks resolve the problem?

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Common questions

Washing machine not filling: FAQs

Why does a cold wash still need both water valves open?

Some models blend a small amount of hot and cold water to reach the selected temperature. Follow the installation instructions for your washer.

Can I clean the inlet screens myself?

Only if the manual for the exact model lists that procedure as owner maintenance. Shut off the water first and stop if fittings are corroded, damaged, or leaking.

Why does the washer fill slowly only sometimes?

Household demand, low pressure, a partly restricted hose, temperature selection, or a developing inlet issue can change fill time. Record when it happens for service.

Research and verification

Source basis

This general guide was reviewed against official manufacturer support libraries and safety guidance. Exact controls, access points, installation limits, and reset procedures vary by model; the manual for your exact model takes priority.

Researched and reviewed by Appliance Resolve EditorialLast reviewed July 31, 2026Review standards