How to Fix a Washing Machine That Fills Slowly

When a washing machine fills slowly, the problem is usually something simple. You may have a kink in the hose that runs from the faucet to the washer. But most often, a clogged intake screen is the reason. Clean it and your washer will be back in action.

Things You'll Need

• Old Toothbrush
• Small Bucket
• Adjustable Pliers
• Small Flathead Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Turn off the water faucets that feed the machine.

2. Unplug the washer and pull it far enough away from the wall that you can get behind it to work.

3. 

   Remove each water-supply hose, using adjustable pliers. Start at the end that connects to the inlet valve on the back of the washer (see A). Hold a small bucket under each hose as you remove it to collect any water that's left in the hose. Then remove each hose where it connects to a faucet.

4. Locate the screens. Most washers have intake screens in the hose ports on the back of the machine. But your machine also may have aftermarket screens. They'll be inside the hose couplings, in the ends that attach to the faucets.

5. 

   Gently pry out the screens using a small flathead screwdriver (see B). Take care not to dent them.

6. Clean the screens, using an old toothbrush.

7. Reinstall the screens, using the tip of your screwdriver to push them firmly into place.

8. Reinstall the hoses and tighten the couplings securely.

9. Turn on the water to check for leaks, then plug in the machine and push it back into position.

Tips & Warnings

• If your inlet screens are clogged with hardened mineral deposits, soak them overnight in a bowl of white vinegar to dissolve the minerals.

• If your machine refuses to fill at all, it's likely the inlet valve itself is bad. Call a professional to replace it.