Roper Washer Water Inlet Valve Buzzing or Humming Noise:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Roper washer's main control unit (MCU) sends 120V AC to the water inlet valve solenoid when the water level sensor indicates the drum needs to be filled. The solenoid opens the valve, allowing water to flow into the washer. A buzzing or humming noise usually indicates the solenoid is receiving power, but the valve isn't opening correctly due to a mechanical or electrical issue.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a loud buzzing or humming noise coming from the back of the washing machine, especially when the water is supposed to be filling. The washer may fill slowly or not at all.

Possible Causes:

Low water pressure to the house
Partially clogged inlet screens
Defective water inlet valve solenoid
Faulty wiring or connections to the valve
Damaged main control board (MCU) relay
Excessive mineral buildup inside the valve

Solution:

1

Turn off the power to the washer at the breaker panel.
2

Turn off the hot and cold water supply valves behind the washer.
3

Disconnect the water supply hoses from the back of the washer and inspect the inlet screens for debris. Clean or replace as needed.
4

Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the water inlet valve connector when the washer is calling for water. You should read 120V AC.
5

If there is proper voltage but the valve is still buzzing/humming, the valve is likely defective. Disconnect the wires and use a multimeter to measure the valve coil resistance. A typical valve coil reads between 800-1500 ohms. An open or shorted coil indicates a bad valve.
6

Replace the water inlet valve. Be sure to use the correct replacement part for your model.
7

Reconnect the water hoses and power, then test the washer.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before attempting any repairs. High voltage is present when the washer is plugged in. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to ensure the circuit remains de-energized.

Prevention:

Periodically inspect and clean the water inlet screens. Use a water softener if you have hard water to prevent mineral buildup.

Expert Tip:

Many Roper washers have a diagnostic mode. Entering the diagnostic mode can allow you to manually activate the water inlet valve for testing purposes. Consult the service manual for your specific model to learn how to enter and use the diagnostic mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I know if the main control board is sending the correct voltage?

Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the water inlet valve connector while the washer is in a fill cycle. You should see 120V AC. If there's no voltage, the MCU or the wiring leading to the valve could be faulty.

•What if the water pressure to my house is low?

Low water pressure can cause the valve to buzz or hum because it's struggling to open fully. Contact a plumber to address the low water pressure issue.

•Where can I find the correct replacement water inlet valve for my Roper washer?

Locate the model number of your washer, usually found inside the door or on the back panel. Use this model number to search for the correct water inlet valve on appliance parts websites or at local appliance parts stores.

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

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I know if the main control board is sending the correct voltage?

•What if the water pressure to my house is low?

•Where can I find the correct replacement water inlet valve for my Roper washer?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: