Why does the washing machine keep filling up with water? 5 main reasons for excessive water withdrawal
Normally, the machine should draw water several times during one wash. This happens at least 2 times, since first the unit collects liquid for washing, and then for rinsing. Therefore, if the supply is continuous, in excessive quantities, this clearly indicates a malfunction. This material explains why the washing machine keeps taking on water and how to properly repair it.
The content of the article
5 reasons for continuous water supply
If the unit constantly takes on water, this can happen for various reasons. The most common cases are:
- Damage to the sensor that controls the water level (also called a pressure switch).
- Malfunction of the intake valve is one of the most common causes.
- Incorrect connection to the sewer pipe.
- Damage to the control unit.
- Violation of the integrity of the tank or other elements (holes, cracks may be in the cuff, rubber hose or pipe).
Breakdown of the pressure switch
This small element detects the volume of liquid in the tank and, if necessary, signals the inlet valve, which opens to pump in new water.Moreover, the device determines the degree of fullness of the washing machine based on the water column.
If scale forms, sediment forms, or small debris settles on the surface, the sensor tube becomes clogged. As a result, it will transmit incorrect data to the machine's electronic board. Therefore, if a blockage occurs, the unit will constantly draw water.
Intake valve problems
Another reason is due to improper operation of the intake valve. This element is responsible for the normal supply of a new volume of water. If it breaks, excess fluid comes out. But even if the valve is working normally, and it only has a weakened membrane, water will flow through even when it closes.
Incorrect sewer connection
If the machine was recently connected and it began to continuously draw water, the problem is probably related to an incorrect connection to the sewer pipe. In such cases, water flows out of the washing machine itself, without the participation of a drain pump. Masters call this phenomenon the “siphon effect” or “self-draining”.
A number of modern models stop working and the corresponding error code lights up on the display. It stands for insufficient volume of liquid in the tank.
Control unit failure
All modern devices are controlled by an electronic processor installed on a board. This is a mini-computer that sets the desired program and controls the wash. If the valves are damaged, the control unit stops turning them off, so water continuously flows into the tank.
If water leaks
The last 3 reasons lead to a noticeable leak under the car. This is due to a violation of the integrity of the cuff, hoses and other elements.The situation is obvious - water constantly flows out, the required amount is not collected, so the machine pumps in new and new volumes. In such cases, you must immediately stop washing, remove the lid from above and behind and locate the source of the leak, following the traces of liquid.
What to do in case of continuous water supply
If the cause of the breakdown is not very serious, you can fix it yourself, using improvised means. You need to do this:
- Inspect the car and make sure it is not leaking.
- Carefully inspect the housing and drain hose, check them for integrity and leaks.
- Make sure the drain hose is higher than the tank. It should be embedded in a siphon or sewer pipe at a height of about 50 cm above the floor. If necessary, the machine is stopped and a new connection to the sewer pipe is made.
- If necessary, replace old damaged parts with new ones.
If the reason is quite serious, it is undesirable to carry out independent repairs without the appropriate skills. In some cases, you will need to call a specialist:
- intake valve failure;
- malfunction of the electronic control unit;
- crack in the body.
In such cases, new parts are purchased and the old ones are dismantled. But if they are repairable, restoration work is carried out. This decision can be made by a qualified specialist.
Thus, the addition of excess water, especially in continuous mode, is definitely a disruption in the operation of the washing machine. Some causes can be identified and eliminated on your own. If there is no exact understanding of the problem, you should contact the service center.