Amana Washer Water Inlet Valve Buzzing Noise:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the water inlet valve to open it and allow water to flow into the washer. The valve uses a solenoid coil to actuate the valve. If the solenoid is failing, or the valve is partially blocked, it can create a buzzing or humming sound. The MCU relies on feedback from the pressure switch to determine when to stop filling the tub. Voltage paths from the MCU run through wiring harnesses, connectors and eventually to the solenoid.

Symptoms:

The Amana washer is making a buzzing or humming noise during the fill cycle. The water may be filling slowly or not at all. The noise may be constant or intermittent.

Possible Causes:

Low water pressure
Clogged inlet screens
Defective water inlet valve solenoid
Wiring harness damage or loose connections
Faulty MCU (Main Control Unit) relay controlling the valve

Solution:

1

Turn off the water supply valves to the washer.
2

Unplug the washer from the 120V AC outlet.
3

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

Inspect the inlet valve screens for sediment or debris. Clean if necessary.
5

Using a multimeter, check for 120V AC at the water inlet valve terminals when the washer is filling. If voltage is present, the valve is likely defective.
6

Disconnect the wiring harness from the water inlet valve. Check for continuity across the solenoid coils using a multimeter. A reading of infinity indicates an open coil.
7

Replace the water inlet valve with a new one if it's defective. Ensure the replacement valve is the correct part for your Amana washer model.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. High voltage is present when the washer is plugged in. Use proper Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures. Water and electricity can be a deadly combination.

Prevention:

Periodically check and clean the water inlet valve screens to prevent clogs. Ensure adequate water pressure to the washer.

Expert Tip:

Some Amana washers have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for your specific model to access the service mode and test the water inlet valve directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Amana washer?

The diagnostic mode varies by model. Typically, it involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel. Consult your service manual for exact instructions.

•What should the water pressure be to my washer?

The ideal water pressure is between 20 and 100 PSI. Low water pressure can cause the valve to buzz or prevent proper filling.

•Where can I find the service manual for my Amana washer?

You can usually find the service manual online by searching for your model number followed by 'service manual'. AppliancePartsPros.com or similar sites often have them available.

Amana Washer Water Inlet Valve Buzzing Noise: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Amana washer?

•What should the water pressure be to my washer?

•Where can I find the service manual for my Amana washer?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: