Admiral Washer Water Inlet Valve Buzzing or Humming... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The water inlet valve is an electrically operated valve that controls the flow of water into the washing machine. The Main Control Unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the valve solenoid, which opens the valve. A buzzing or humming noise often indicates a problem with the solenoid, the water supply, or the control signal.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a loud buzzing or humming noise coming from the back of the Admiral washing machine, particularly during the water fill cycle. The washer may fill slowly, intermittently, or not at all. The noise may persist even when the washer is not actively filling.

Possible Causes:

Partially clogged water inlet screens
Low or fluctuating water pressure
Defective water inlet valve solenoid
Faulty wiring to the water inlet valve
Malfunctioning Main Control Unit (MCU) relay
Air trapped in the water lines

Solution:

1

Turn off the water supply to the washing machine at the shut-off valves.
2

Unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet.
3

Disconnect the water inlet hoses from the back of the washing machine. Inspect the inlet screens for debris and clean them thoroughly.
4

Reconnect the water hoses and turn the water supply back on slightly to check water pressure is above 20 PSI.
5

Using a multimeter, test the voltage at the water inlet valve terminals during the fill cycle. You should read 120V AC. If no voltage is present, suspect a wiring or MCU issue.
6

If voltage is present and the valve is still humming, replace the water inlet valve assembly.
7

After replacing the valve, run a test cycle to ensure the issue is resolved.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect the power supply to the washing machine before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental re-energizing of the appliance. Be aware of high voltage when testing electrical components.

Prevention:

Regularly check and clean the water inlet screens every 6 months. Ensure adequate water pressure to the washing machine. Inspect the water hoses for kinks or damage and replace them as needed.

Expert Tip:

Some Admiral washers have a diagnostic mode that can be accessed by pressing specific button combinations. Consult the service manual for the correct sequence. This can help isolate the problem and display error codes related to the water inlet valve.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct part number for the water inlet valve on my specific Admiral washing machine model?

You can find the correct part number by checking the model number label on your washing machine, typically located inside the door or on the back panel. Search online using the model number and "water inlet valve" or consult a parts supplier.

•How do I test the water inlet valve solenoid with a multimeter to confirm it's faulty?

Disconnect the power to the washer. Disconnect the wires to the solenoid. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Place the probes on the solenoid terminals. A reading of infinity or zero ohms indicates a faulty solenoid.

•If I don't have 120V AC at the water inlet valve, what are the next steps to diagnose the wiring or MCU?

First, check the wiring harness for any damage or loose connections. If the wiring is good, the next step is to test the relay on the MCU that controls the water inlet valve. You'll need a wiring diagram for your model and possibly professional assistance to test the MCU safely.

Admiral Washer Water Inlet Valve Buzzing or Humming Noise: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct part number for the water inlet valve on my specific Admiral washing machine model?

•How do I test the water inlet valve solenoid with a multimeter to confirm it's faulty?

•If I don't have 120V AC at the water inlet valve, what are the next steps to diagnose the wiring or MCU?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: