Admiral Washer Taking Too Long to Fill: Troubleshooting... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The washing machine's MCU (Main Control Unit) energizes the water inlet valve solenoids based on signals from the pressure switch. The pressure switch senses the water level in the tub. If the MCU doesn't receive the correct signal (or any signal) from the pressure switch in a timely manner, it will continue to attempt to fill the tub. Voltage paths from the MCU to the water valve and from the pressure switch back to the MCU must be continuous and within specified voltage ranges, typically 120V AC to the valve when energized.

Symptoms:

The Admiral washing machine is taking an excessively long time to fill with water during the wash cycle. This can significantly extend the overall cycle time and may result in clothes not being washed properly. The water pressure at other faucets in the house seems normal.

Possible Causes:

Clogged inlet screens on the water inlet valve.
Defective water inlet valve (cold, hot, or both).
Low water pressure to the washing machine.
Kinked or damaged water supply hoses.
Faulty pressure switch or air dome blockage.
Drain hose siphoning water during fill.

Solution:

1

Turn off the breaker to the washing machine at the breaker panel.
2

Turn off both hot and cold water supply valves.
3

Disconnect the water supply hoses from the back of the washer.
4

Inspect the inlet screens on the water inlet valve. Clean or replace if necessary. Use a small pick to dislodge debris.
5

Reconnect the water supply hoses. Turn the water supply valves back on SLOWLY.
6

Turn the breaker back on and start a test cycle. Monitor water fill. If still slow, disconnect power again and check the water inlet valve coils with a multimeter (should read around 1-1.5k ohms each coil). If open, replace the valve.
7

If the valve is good, check the pressure switch hose. Disconnect the hose from the pressure switch and blow into it. You should hear air escaping into the tub. If blocked, clear the blockage.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the washing machine at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed. Be aware of potential shock hazards when working with electrical components. The water inlet valve operates on 120V AC.

Prevention:

Periodically check and clean the inlet screens on the water inlet valve (every 6 months) to prevent clogging. Ensure adequate water pressure to the washing machine. Check for kinks or damage to the water supply hoses. Inspect the drain hose for proper system and secure it to prevent siphoning.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral washers have a service mode. Simultaneously press and hold the START/PAUSE and WATER LEVEL buttons for 3 seconds to enter service mode. This allows you to manually activate the water valves for testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the pressure switch on my Admiral washer?

Disconnect the pressure switch hose. Use a multimeter to check continuity between the common terminal and the fill and empty terminals. Gently blow into the hose. Continuity should switch between the fill and empty terminals as you apply pressure. If it doesn't, the pressure switch is faulty.

•What is the proper water pressure required for my Admiral washing machine?

The recommended water pressure for most washing machines is between 20 PSI and 100 PSI. Lower pressure can cause slow filling, while higher pressure can damage the water inlet valve.

•Where can I find the water inlet valve on my Admiral washer and how do I replace it?

The water inlet valve is typically located at the back of the washer, near where the water supply hoses connect. After disconnecting power and water, remove the top or back panel of the washer (depending on the model) to access the valve. Disconnect the wires and hoses from the old valve, then install the new valve, reattaching the wires and hoses in the same configuration. Replace the panel and reconnect power and water.

Admiral Washer Taking Too Long to Fill: Troubleshooting & Fix

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the pressure switch on my Admiral washer?

•What is the proper water pressure required for my Admiral washing machine?

•Where can I find the water inlet valve on my Admiral washer and how do I replace it?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: