How to Fix Washer Overflow

Reasons Why You’re Experiencing Washing Machine Overflows

While we identify the most common reasons below that you may be experiencing a washing machine water overflow, there may be other issues causing your problem. This isn’t an exclusive list, but it’s a great place to start.

Low water supply is leading to a problem with washer drain overflowing

Water pressure can cause all kinds of headaches in many common situations, including a washing machine water overflow. If there isn’t enough water pressure flowing through your pipes, the water inlet valve won’t get the signal to shut off and halt the flow of water. As a rule of thumb, the water pressure from your municipal pipes to your washing machine needs to be operating at least at 20 PSI to trigger the water inlet valve correctly.

This is a common problem in older homes where plumbing wasn’t designed for our larger modern appliances. Even in situations where an older home does have enough water pressure, it could be old and/or leaking pipes that are the root of your pressure problems.

The pressure switch is causing a washing machine drain overflow

Washing machines aren’t complex contraptions at the heart of things. They do their jobs using a series of valves, switches and moving parts, and that hasn’t changed much over the last few decades. What has changed is the integration of computers and smart technologies. As complicated as these modern appliances may look, the basic operation is still similar.

One thing that hasn’t changed a lot is the pressure switch on your washing machine. It’s this switch that stops water flowing to the water inlet valve once you’ve reached the desired water level. If it isn’t working correctly the water inlet valve will continue to feed your machine causing it to overflow.

The water inlet valve is causing a washing machine to overflow

We’ve already talked about the water inlet valve briefly during our discussion of the pressure switch. They both play an important role in regulating the amount of water that moves through your washing machine. It’s not unusual for people to confuse these two parts because of their integrated nature, but they’re distinct pieces in your washing machines system.

The water inlet valve is the direct feed of water to your washing machine. If it isn’t working correctly you will get overflows and that can mean trouble with extensive water damage. A good way to test if the water inlet valve is working is to disconnect the power to your machine while it’s filling. If the power cut doesn’t stop the water flow you have a problem with the water inlet valve.

How to Repair a Washing Machine Standpipe Overflow

If one of the potential causes we’ve identified above appears to be the culprit, read on for repair suggestions related to these issues. Remember, if you’re not comfortable taking on these repairs yourself contact a professional for help.

Improve the water flow to your washing machine

If you’re confident that a lack of water pressure to your washing machine is the reason for washing machine overflow then it could be a simple fix. If there are obvious signs of wear on the hoses connecting your machine to the water source, those hoses will probably need to be replaced — leaky hoses can lead to tons of damage.

Be sure to check your manufacturer’s specifications to make sure you’re buying the right size replacements. Then disconnect the hot and cold water supply before attempting to replace the hoses. You can now disconnect the old hoses, you may need a wrench for this. It’s also a good idea to have a bucket nearby just in case. Then all you have to do is tighten the new hoses in place, and turn the water back on.

Replace a faulty pressure switch that’s causing your washer to overflow

If you’ve identified the pressure switch as the reason that your washing machine is overflowing then it is possible to correct the problem yourself. This isn’t an easy repair though so if you’re not confident in your DIY capabilities it may be time to call in professional help.

The location of the pressure switch on your washing machine will vary depending on whether you have a top load or front load machine. It’s located behind the water level control knob on your machine. You’ll need to remove this knob and the panel of your control panel to gain access to the pressure switch.

Before you can remove the pressure switch to replace it you’ll need to remove the air hose connected to the pressure switch. Once you have the new switch installed make sure to reinstall the control panel and the water level knob before using the machine again.

Remove and change a water inlet valve that’s causing washing machine overflow

The water inlet valve is an important component of your machine. If you’re sure it’s the reason for your overflow issues it will need to be replaced. On a top load washing machine, you’ll need to pop the lid up to be able to access the inner workings where the inlet valve is located.

Before you do this, make sure to cut the power supply to your machine. Once that’s done, disconnect hot and cold water. Next, you’ll need to remove the screw that holds the fill valve in place. Then you should be able to lift the fill hose that the valve is connected to out of the machine.

Be sure to remove all wires before removing the old valve. Once you have the new valve in place follow the process in reverse to put it all back together.

Fix Appliances Can Help if Your Washer Drain Keeps Overflowing

If you experience washing machine suds overflow or your washing machine starts overflowing water, shut off its water supply and contact Fix Appliances for professional washer repair services if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs. We have more than 15 years of experience servicing all major appliance brands and our technicians are factory trained to easily identify the cause of the problems.

We offer fast reliable service when you need us. Our customer service team will help get you started by asking a series of common questions and then our professional repair technicians will take it from there. Contact us by phone at 1-888-242-0777 to set up a service call or fill the request service form.