how to check water supply to a washing machine or washer-dryer
if a washing machine or washer-dryer will not fill, check its tap, the household water supply and the already visible inlet hose. switch off before easing a safely reachable bend, keeping hose connections and safety devices assembled and the heavy machine in place.
- repair type
- owner care
- difficulty
- easy
- hands-on time
- ~ 5 min
scope: supply tap and visible hose only; no valve tests or safety-hose dismantling.
when to get help
- for a leaking hose, damaged safety device or continued failure to fill, close the tap and seek service. a household water-supply problem needs a plumber or the water provider, not an appliance-valve test.
steps
- check the supply
confirm the machine's tap is open and that other household taps have their usual water supply. look for a sharp bend or trapping along the visible inlet hose.
- ease a visible bend
switch the machine off before gently straightening a bend you can reach safely. do not pull on fittings or move a heavy appliance. leave hose connections and safety devices assembled.
- try the normal start sequence
if there is no damage or leak, close the door and retry a normal wash. if it still will not fill despite a normal household supply, arrange appliance service.
diy warning
working on appliances can involve mains electricity, water and moving parts. always disconnect power and water before you start. in Australia, gas work must be done by a licensed gasfitter, and fixed (hard-wired) electrical work by a licensed electrician. everything on this site is guidance only, and any repair you carry out is at your own risk. we are not responsible for any damage or injury caused by attempting a repair. if you are not confident, please use a qualified technician.
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related problems
- why is detergent left in my washing machine or washer-dryer drawer?for manually filled drawers, check deposits and insert seating before water supply. automatic-dosing tanks need separate instructions.
- why is my washing machine or washer-dryer not taking in water?check whether the programme has started, then the tap and visible hose. no fill alone does not identify a faulty inlet valve.
