As someone who relies heavily on my Maytag washer, I understand the frustration that sets in when it won’t fill with water. 

It’s almost as if the washer is conspiring with the dirt to make your life unbearable. 

Luckily:

This is a common problem that, surprisingly, is easy to troubleshoot and DIF-fix. 

But where do you start?

That’s what this article is about—an easy-to-follow guide on the troubleshooting steps, causes, and fixes for a Maytag washer that won’t fill with water. 

Challenge accepted?

Why Is My Maytag Washer Not Filling With Water?

There are several possible reasons why your Maytag washer isn’t filling with water. A malfunctioning water inlet valve, a clogged inlet filter, a faulty water level pressure switch, or problems with the timer. It could also be a result of low water pressure or improper installation of the drain hose.

And as you know:

A problem shared is a problem solved. That’s why I reached out again to Todd Hofer, a Manhattan-based repair technician.

How To Troubleshoot A Maytag Washer That Won’t Fill Water 

Before we embark on our epic troubleshooting journey, let’s talk about the intricacies of this perplexing problem.

Now:

There is a wide range of water filling problems. For instance,

• Not filling with water at all.
• Filling with just hot or cold water.
• Not filling all the way.
• Filling slowly.
• Intermittent filling. 
• Not filling with water on a specific cycle.

So, pay close attention to your washer. 

The next thing to do is reset the washer. 

According to Todd,

“A reset is the magic fix for problems caused by a software glitch, sensor calibration issue, or control panel unresponsiveness.”

The most popular reset techniques for most Maytag washers include

• Power reset
• Factory reset
• Recalibration reset
• Press and hold the “Cancel” or “Reset” button for a few seconds.
• Open and close the door 6 times in 12 seconds.

Next:

Take your troubleshooting skills up a notch by running the washer in diagnostic mode, which will reveal any stored error codes.

Keep an eye out for any of these telltale error codes that could shed light on the affected component. 

Error	Meaning
LF, Lo FL, F8 E1,F20	Water supply issues
D1, d12	Water level circuit
d4	Lid
d3	Water temperature sensor error
F5 E2	Lid switch
F1 E1	Control unit

Now:

Recently, a client called me to fix a Maytag MVW7230HW0 washer that wasn’t filling with water.

However, after troubleshooting, I realized the washer was stuck on sensing and it was not a water-filling problem. 

This is because the two problems have somewhat similar symptoms, such as failing to start. 

To tell the difference, check the display light. If the sensing LED light is on, then the washer could be stuck on sensing.

Now, let’s get into the causes and fixes for a Maytag washer that won’t fill with water. 

8 Reasons Maytag Washer Not Filling With Water

Common Reasons	Part Replacement Cost
User oversight	None
Water inlet valve	$50-$100
Water level pressure switch	$50-$100
Timer	$200-$450
Lid switch	$20-$70
Control board	$50-$200
Low water pressure	None
Drain hose installation	None

1. User Oversight

Now:

Sometimes the reason a Maytag washer won’t fill with water is because of a basic user error or oversight.

The table below compiles the most common user oversights Todd and I have come across in our line of duty. 

User oversight	Explanation and Solution
Water supply valves are turned off or not fully open.	The valves that control water flow to the washer are in the off position.
The delayed start feature is activated	The washer is set to start at a later time, so it won’t immediately fill with water.Adjust the settings as needed.
Overloading the washer	An overloaded washer may have difficulty filling properly.
Incorrect cycle selection	When the washer is set to spin only, drain and spin, or rinse and spin cycles, it does not fill with water.
The door or lid is not properly closed	The washer detects that the door or lid is open, so it doesn’t start the cycle.
incorrect water temperature selection	You have selected a water temperature for which the corresponding water supply is turned off.

Fortunately, many user oversights that cause water-filling issues can be easily rectified without the need for any replacement parts.

2. Clogged or Faulty Water Inlet Valve

Part	Water inlet valve
Location	At the back of the machine
Ease of troubleshooting	Easy
Replacement part cost	$50-$100
Repairable	Yes

Problem:

“A whopping 25% of the Maytag washers I’ve encountered with water filling problems were victims of a faulty or clogged water inlet valve,” Todd says.

Now:

The water inlet valve is a mechanical and electrical component that controls the flow of cold and hot water into the washer. 

It comprises solenoids, two inlet ports, screens, and a diaphragm.

As with many washer parts, the water inlet valve is prone to different mishaps that could result in water-filling issues. 

For instance

• Getting clogged or blocked by debris and sediment.
• Failed solenoid.
• Damaged or loose wiring connections.
• An obstruction inside the valves.
• Communication problems between the valve and the control board or timer. 

Identification:

The first thing to confirm is if there is adequate water reaching the washer. Confirm that both the hot and cold water supply valves are fully open.

Next:

Check that none of the water inlet hoses are kinked, as that would hamper the flow of water and the washer won’t fill completely. 

If all seems well on the surface, proceed to inspect the water inlet valve.

Now:

To locate the inlet valves, you’ll need to gain access to the inside of the washer. Then detach the inlet valve from the hoses using pliers or a wrench. 

From there:

Inspect the inlet screens for debris or sediment buildup. 

According to Todd,

“Recently, I came across a cold water hose screen that was clogged with sediment. This issue is particularly common with homes connected to well water.”

Also, look for cracks, leaks, mineral deposits, and loose or damaged electrical connections. 

Even if its physical condition seems pristine, it’s important to test the solenoids for continuity using a multitester. 

Solution: 

The fix here will depend on the issue you are dealing with. For instance, if the screens are clogged, a simple yet effective solution involves cleaning the inlet with water. 

For instance, this user in our Facebook Repair Community reported that her Maytag MVWC6ESWW1 washer developed this problem after a line burst in their neighborhood. 

I advised her to disconnect the fill hoses and clean the filters. Then wait until the water is clean to reconnect the hoses. 

On the other hand, if the solenoids have failed, buy a replacement valve. 

3. A Defective Water Level Pressure Switch

Part	Water level switch
Location	Inside the control console
Ease of troubleshooting	Hard
Replacement part cost	$50-$100
Repairable	Rarely

Problem:

Within the intricate workings of your Maytag washer, the water level pressure switch monitors the amount of water inside the washer tub. 

According to Todd, 

“The pressure switch uses air pressure and diaphragm movements to trigger a switch that communicates with the control board.”

However:

The pressure switch experiences its fair share of challenges.

Some of the problems Todd and I have encountered in our line of duty include

• A faulty switch
• Clogged air hose
• Improper calibration 
• Loose electrical connections
• Kinked or detached air hose
• Worn or damaged diaphragm

Identification:

Begin your troubleshooting journey by listening for clicks as the pressure switch stops the flow of water into the washer drum. 

If you hear the click immediately after pressing the start button, it’s possible the switch is clicking too early.

Next:

Unplug the washer and locate the switch. Typically, it’s located behind the control panel. 

This will allow you to do a thorough inspection of all the possible problems I mentioned above.

The final step is to use a multitester to test for electrical failure, ensuring that no hidden glitches escape your attention. 

Solution: 

While issues with the hose can often be resolved with ease, most mechanical and electrical problems with the switch may necessitate replacing the entire component.

For instance, this user on Reddit fixed her Maytag Maxima that was displaying the F3/E1 error code by replacing the pressure switch.

“Make sure to recalibrate the washer after replacing the component,” Todd adds.  

4. A Problem With The Timer

Part	Timer
Location	In the control panel of the washer
Ease of troubleshooting	Hard
Replacement part cost	$200-$450
Repairable	Yes

Problem:

Among the array of potential culprits behind water-filling issues in Maytag washers, one elusive suspect occasionally emerges: the timer. 

According to Todd,

“When you start a wash cycle, the timer coordinates with the control board and water inlet valve to allow the right amount of water.”

Though a rare occurrence, when the timer falls out of sync, it can cause water filling issues

Some of the most common problems I’ve encountered include

• Worn out contacts
• Broken gear
• Faulty components such as capacitors and relays
• The timer can get stuck

Identification:

In older washers, the timer is typically a mechanical device located inside the console, while in modern washers, it is often electronic and integrated into the control board.

This integration poses a challenge when it comes to DIY fixes, as the intricate nature of the control board restricts how much you can do. 

“If your Maytag has a mechanical timer, inspect it for signs of damage, such as burned areas or broken gears,” Todd explains. 

Finally:

Use a multimeter to test the timer’s contacts for continuity.

Solution:  

The fix here will depend on the specific issue. 

For certain issues, such as worn-out contacts or loose connections, there is hope for repair and restoration.

However, if an internal part is damaged, it’s often difficult to repair. In such a case, replace the timer.

5. A Broken Lid Switch 

Part	Lid switch
Location	On top of the washer’s cabinet
Ease of troubleshooting	Easy
Replacement part cost	$20-$100
Repairable	Yes

Problem:

The lid switch is one of the safety features found on Maytag top load washers. 

Now:

In some Maytag washers, the switch is designed to prevent the washer from spinning or agitating when the lid is open.

However:

In some models, the washer cannot start a cycle when the lid is open. In this case, the washer won’t fill with water if it detects that the lid isn’t closed properly. 

Some of the most common problems associated with the lid switches include

• Broken or loose switch
• Faulty electrical contacts
• Misalignment 

Identification:

When the washer is starting, you will often hear a click sound when the lid locks. 

“However, if you cannot hear these distinctive clicks during the startup process, it could be a telltale sign that the lid switch is encountering a problem,” Todd explains. 

The next thing to do is locate the switch and inspect it. Look out for burn marks, loose wires, or broken components.

Lastly:

Use a multimeter set to continuity or resistance mode to check the timer’s electrical connections

Solution:  

If the lid switch is broken, the most effective solution is to replace it. However, some issues, like misalignment and loose connections, are easy to fix.  

6. Issue With The Control Board

Part	Control board
Location	Located within the control panel area
Ease of troubleshooting	Hard
Replacement part cost	$200-$500
Repairable	Hard to repair

Problem:

The control board is without a doubt the most important part of a washer. It controls and coordinates all the different functions. 

For instance:

When you select a wash cycle, the control board receives the input and determines the appropriate amount of water to add to the washer.

It then sends electrical signals to the water valve to allow enough water to flow into the washer.

The board then waits for the signal from the water pressure level switch to stop the flow of water. 

Now:

“If the control board develops a problem and it’s not able to execute any of these functions, the washer won’t fill with water,” Todd explains.  

Identification:

From my experience, and Todd agrees with me, the control board is the most complex component to troubleshoot and repair. 

Some of the common control board problems include

• Corroded connections
• Getting stuck due to a software glitch
• A short circuit or burned components
• Faulty capacitors or relays 

The first thing to do when troubleshooting the control board is to reset the washer to see if that will resolve the issue. 

Next:

Locate the control board and inspect it for all the potential issues we’ve mentioned above.

Solution:

For most people, the most they can do is replace the entire control board. This is because it’s hard to repair. 

If you’ve pinpointed the control board as the culprit behind your washer woes, seek the expertise of a professional, as they can help fix some issues without buying a new control board. 

7. Low Water Pressure

Problem:

Another possible cause for a Maytag washer that won’t fill with water is low water pressure.

However, unlike the other water supply issues that are easy to fix, this is harder since it’s mostly out of your control. 

According to Todd,

“Most washing machines require a water pressure of between 20 and 120 PSI to function properly.”

However:

When there is no sufficient water pressure, the washer may fill slowly or not fill at all. 

Also:

Some water inlet valve functionality requires a minimum pressure to open. If the pressure is too low, the valve might not open.

Identification:

The most accurate way to test the water pressure in your home’s water supply is to use a pressure gauge. 

Start by turning off any appliance that uses water and all water faucets.

Then connect the pressure gauge to a faucet, turn on the water, and take note of the reading. If the reading is below 20 PSI, that could be the cause. 

Finally:

Check if your water supply system has a pressure-reducing valve; it could be set too low or faulty. 

Solution:  

Unfortunately, there is very little DIY you can do if you are dealing with low water pressure.

First, call a plumber to check if the cause is clogged, galvanized, or leaking pipes. From there, contact your water supply company. 

8. Improper Installation Of The Drain Hose

Part	Drain Hose
Location	Back of the washer
Ease of troubleshooting	Easy

Problem:

Improper installation of the drain hose can also prevent the washer from filling with water.

How?

“If the drain hose is inserted too far into the standpipe, the water may start to siphon out of the washer as it’s filling,” Todd explains. 

In this case, the washer will be draining as it fills with water and won’t function correctly.

This can also happen If there is no air gap between the drain hose and the standpipe as it creates a siphoning effect.

Identification and Solution:

Here, you will need the owner’s manual to check for specific instructions on how to install the drain hose. 

Also, make sure there is an air gap and that the drain hose isn’t pushed too far inside the drain hose. 

Note:

Improper installation of the drain hose is also one of the causes of a Maytag washing machine not draining. 

Models Most Affected

Here is the thing:

There is no Maytag washer that is immune from water-filling problems. Luckily, this guide applies to every Maytag washer model, including 

• Maytag Bravos
• Maytag Centennial
• Maytag Bravos Xl
• Maytag Bravos Mct
• Maytag Commercial
• Maytag Washer MVWC6ESWW1
• Maytag Neptune
• Maytag Ensignia
• Maytag Maxima
• Maytag 4000 Series
• Maytag Washer Model MAH4000AWW
• Maytag Front Load Washer Model Number MWH7000XG1
• Maytag Washer MVWC565FW

In Summary…

Your Maytag washer is a trusty companion, but like any other appliance, it may hit rough waters now and then. 

This post has unpacked some of the most common reasons why a Maytag washer won’t fill with water. 

They include a clogged water inlet valve, a defective water pressure level switch, a faulty control board, and user oversight. 

As you’ve seen, even the trickiest of troubles can be fixed. However, if you are not lucky, consult a professional. 

In the meantime, check out our Facebook Group for free advice and consultation.

Here’s to seamless cycles, and may your Maytag washer triumph in the spin of life! 

Frequently Asked Questions