Skip to content 
If you’re finding that your washing machine is holding water when it isn’t being used, you could be looking at a number of potential reasons.
Fortunately, you can resolve this issue without needing to call a repairman by following some practical steps.
Many times, a faulty water inlet valve or improper positioning of your drain hose can result in your washing machine to have standing water in the drum, even if you are not using it.
If Water Inlet Valve Failed:
It May Sipping Water Through the Valve
What is it: Your washing machine’s water inlet valve is a part that connects two hoses to the washing machine.
It is responsible for controlling the flow of hot and cold water. A faulty valve can result in the washer filling up by itself, even when not in use.
You can also try testing the valve to help you better determine why it failed in the first place. Replacing a faulty valve is a simple enough task.
However, it needs to be done using parts and methods that are specific to the model of your washing machine.
Why it fails: The water inlet valve comes equipped with two threaded ports. These are connected to both hot and cold water hoses located at the back of your washing machine.
Each of these ports is controlled by a solenoid valve. This solenoid valve serves to send electrical power that opens and closes the water flow (hot and cold).
Each solenoid valve has a spring that pushes solenoid down to close the valve when the valve not getting power.
Over time these solenoid springs become weak or worn out and don’t have enough power to keep the valve closed.
Connect with an Appliance Repair Tech
Click here to use the chatbox to speak with one of our technicians.
No in-home service calls. No appointments.
How To Fix: disconnect your washing machine from its power supply, as well as its hoses before you start to check the water inlet valve.
Make sure that the washing machine is turned off and that it is unplugged from the power outlet.
Next, turn off both the cold and hot water valves that are connected to the supply hoses. It’s a good idea to place a bucket on the floor so that it will catch any dripping water.
Then, unscrew the supply hoses from the washing machine. You can use a pair of pliers to loosen any stubborn connections.
Place the loose ends of the hoses into the water bucket so that the water drains from the hose.
Valve Is jammed in ON Position Due to Calcium Deposits
What is it: The water inlet valve is stuck in the ON position and won’t turn off.
Why it fails: Over time, the water inlet valve can accumulate calcium deposits, causing the valve to get stuck.
How To Fix: Disconnect the washer from the power source and remove top or back cover to reach water inlet valves.
Then, turn water cold and how taps OFF and start disconnecting water hoses from the washer.
Release clamps from the black hoses, attached to the solenoid valves and remove the valve. Replace with a new one.
Drain Hose Located Very High
Water Backing up From Standpipe
What is it: The standpipe connects your washing machine’s drain pipe to your home’s waste stack.
It is responsible for delivering wastewater from the washing machine to the waste stack in a clean and efficient manner.
Why it fails: When the standpipe is installed too high, it can cause backflow to occur.
When this happens, wastewater from the washing machine dumps back out onto the floor of your laundry room, resulting in flooding that can damage both your home and your washing machine.
How to fix: As per plumbing codes, you shouldn’t install your standpipe any higher than 30 inches above the trap.
With that said, you should also make sure that the standpipe is at least 18 inches from the trap.
Anything outside of these measurements is likely to lead to backflow or result in your washing machine not draining correctly.
This can lead to damage to your washing machine, home, or both. It is crucial that you adhere to these measurements so that you may avoid potential problems with your plumbing or washing machine.
If your standpipe is too high, take the proper measurements and reposition your standpipe so that it is within the necessary guidelines.
Conclusion
You can avoid a lot of hassle by carefully following plumbing codes. If you aren’t sure about something, you should check with a licensed professional before attempting to do it yourself.
This can potentially save you a lot of trouble and a lot of money down the road. You can also look forward to your washing machine functioning properly and providing you with years of service.
