Why is my washer humming but not filling with water?

Author: Prof. Reyes Waters  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

If your appliance won't take water in and you hear this humming then it usually means there is a problem with the taps at the back of your machine. The gentle humming means that your washing machine's taps are trying to take water in but can't, so first things first you should check the taps.

Why is my washing machine humming but no water?

Generally if your washer is not filling with water and you hear a humming noise then the inlet valve is faulty and will need to be replaced. Check to see if it will fill with hot only or cold only water settings if it fills on one and not the other then it indicates the the valve is definitely faulty.

Why is my washing machine on but not filling with water?

Check if the water inlet screens are clogged.

Don't remove the screens — this could possibly cause flooding. If the screens are clogged and you can't get them clean, the water valve should be replaced. After checking the screens, reinstall the hoses and turn the water back on. Make sure there aren't any leaks.

Why is my washing machine humming but not turning?

If the washer is just humming, you know it's getting power down to the drain pump. That means your control board is working and telling the drain pump to turn on. You'll need to remove the drain pump below the tub and check for any debris that might be blocking the drain line.

Why is my washing machine humming when filling?

That humming noise you hear is the drain pump running. The washer tried to fill for more than 6 minutes the last time you used it so the washer went into flood mode. This occurs if you have low water pressure, or the load is too large. Either way, just plug the washer back in and allow it to keep humming.

How To Fix a Washing Machine That Hums But Won't Start: Diagnosing Common Problems

Why is my washing machine humming but not agitating?

Why is my washing machine humming but not agitating? If your machine is humming but not agitating, it's likely that the washing machine pump is obstructed or damaged.

How to reset a washing machine?

Washer Control Reset

To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.

Why is my washing machine humming during the spin cycle?

The humming/whirring noise is very common and part of normal operation: The Humming/Whirling noises you would hear during the agitation/wash or spin portions of the cycle are caused by the motor.

How do I know if my washing machine is clogged?

To check for clogs, loosen the clamp connecting the hose to the bottom of the tub, then inspect the inside. If you see something blocking the hose or its connecting parts, remove it with the pliers, then reconnect the hose.

How to fix a washing machine that won't wash?

What are the steps to fix a washing machine that won't wash?
  1. Step 1: Check the Power Supply. ...
  2. Step 2: Check the Water Supply. ...
  3. Step 3: Check the Detergent Dispenser. ...
  4. Step 4: Check the Drain Hose. ...
  5. Step 5: Check the Agitator. ...
  6. Step 6: Check the Belt. ...
  7. Step 7: Check the Motor.

Why is water coming into my washing machine when not in use?

If your Washer drips water or fills with water when it is not turned on, the water valve on the back of your Washer may have failed. This can cause water to leak from the water valve into your Washer tub when the Washer is turned off.

Why is my washing machine not spinning or filling with water?

A displaced or faulty spin switch is the most likely cause. This small switch should be pressed down by the lid when it's closed. If it isn't pressed down, your machine may prevent the spin cycle as a safety measure. To troubleshoot this, hold the switch down with your finger (with the lid open) and start a spin cycle.

Why is my whirlpool washer not filling with water?

Check for any kinks in inlet hoses, which can restrict water flow. If possible, remove the inlet hoses from the back of the washer. To do this, turn the water supply off, then use pliers to remove the hoses. Place hose ends in a bucket to catch water remaining in the hoses.

Why is my washing machine not filling with water?

The most common reason is a problem with the water supply, or a blocked or kinked water supply hose. In this situation, the washing machine will drain for 3 minutes and the power button will be inoperative. In this case, please clean the debris filter and mesh filter.

Why is my washing machine making a sound but not spinning?

If the washer drive belt is broken or falls off of its wheel, the washer may still be able to agitate and make noise, but the drum won't spin around. To check the drive belt, first unplug your washing machine. Then, remove the back of the washer to see if the belt is still on the pulley system.

How do you unclog a washing machine water line?

If the blockage persists, you can try using a plumber's snake or a drain auger to break up the clog. Insert the end of the snake into the drain pipe and turn the handle clockwise until you feel resistance. Then, turn it counterclockwise while pulling it out to remove any blockage.

How to tell if a washer drain pump is bad?

Common drain pump failure symptoms include: Incomplete cycles: Have you recently checked a wash load only to discover a full reservoir or soaked clothes? These issues indicate incomplete cycles, a hallmark of a failing drain pump. Stinky smells: You might detect rotten or decay odors wafting from your washing machine.

How long do washing machines last?

Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.

Why is my washing machine humming but not filling?

Why is my washing machine humming and not filling with water? If your washing machine isn't filling with water and is making a humming sound, it could be related to water flow problems, such as closed or blocked supply taps. Check the water supply and connections to address this issue.

Why is my Maytag washer making a humming noise?

The pump will run continuously throughout the drain cycle. You may hear a humming sound from the pump, this may be more noticeable once the majority of the water has been drained. These sounds are part of the normal washer operation.

Why is my LG washer making a humming noise?

The drain pump is responsible for removing the water from the drum during the wash and spin cycles. If it becomes clogged with debris like lint, coins, or other small objects, it can cause the pump to work harder and produce a loud humming or buzzing noise.

Does unplugging a washer reset it?

If you want to try resolving issues with your washing machine, such as power surges or error codes, it's possible you might need to perform a quick reset. One way you can reset a washer is by unplugging the unit for at least one minute, then plugging it back in and restarting the appliance.

Why is my washing machine starting but not washing?

A blocked detergent line or tray is the most likely reason for your washing machine not cleaning your clothes properly. Alternatively, there could be a blockage elsewhere, meaning that detergent, germs, dirt and grime will eventually build up and transfer onto your clothes.

Why is my whirlpool washer sensing but not filling with water?

The most common cause of a Whirlpool washer that is stuck on sensing is a faulty actuator. However, this problem may also be caused by a clogged drain pump, a failed door latch/lid switch, a torn drive belt, a faulty pressure switch, or faulty water inlet valves.

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