Is your Amana washing machine making an irritating squealing noise while filling up with water? Or is it just dribbling water during the wash cycle?
Don’t worry, we’ll help you figure out and fix these problems. In addition, we’ll introduce you to a clever workaround to keep your laundry routine running smoothly while waiting for replacement parts. I’m Chip, and I’m excited to walk you through the steps to get your washing machine back in action.
Understanding the Water Valve Problem
Before we dive into the troubleshooting steps, let’s understand what’s causing the noise and water dribbling issue. Your washing machine may be making noise or not filling with water properly due to a malfunctioning cold water valve. This is especially noticeable during the rinse cycle, when all rinses are cold water-based.
How Can Inlet Filters Help Silence a Noisy Amana Washer Filling?
Inlet filters play a crucial role in maintaining clean and efficient machinery, especially when it comes to reducing the noise generated by a filling Amana washer. By trapping debris and preventing it from entering the washer’s system, these filters ensure smooth water flow and prevent clogs, resulting in a quieter operation. Incorporating inlet filters into the washing machine’s design can significantly contribute to a noise-free and peaceful laundry experience.
Diagnosing the Issue
- Enter Service Diagnostic Mode
You can start by using the service diagnostic mode on your Amana washing machine. To do this, first turn the large knob left until it reaches 12. Then, turn it right three times.
After that, turn it left once. Finally, turn it right once more. This will initiate the diagnostic mode, indicated by flashing lights.
- Identify Service Diagnostic Mode: In service diagnostic mode, look for the second and third lights from the right to be on. This indicates that you’re in diagnostic mode. Press the button to turn off all lights.
- Testing the Cold Water Valve: Turn the knob one click clockwise to activate the cold water valve. Open the lid and start the machine. If you observe water dribbling instead of a steady flow, it’s a clear sign of a compromised cold water valve.
- Testing the Hot Water Valve
After testing the cold water valve, turn it off by clicking it one more time to the right. Now activate the hot water valve by turning the knob one click to the right. Check if water fills properly. If it does, your hot water valve is working fine.
Replacing the Faulty Water Valve
If you’ve confirmed that the cold water valve is faulty, it’s time to replace it. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth replacement process:
- Access the Valve Area: First, remove the back panel of your washing machine. This might require unscrewing a few screws. Once the panel is off, you’ll have access to the valve area.
- Remove the Old Valve: Using a T20 hex wrench, remove the two bolts securing the old valve. Carefully detach the wires connected to the valve and disconnect it from the control board.
- Install the New Valve (screenshot) Slide the new valve into place, securing it with the bolts you removed earlier. Reconnect the wires and ensure that you properly connect everything.
The Clever Workaround
While waiting for the replacement part, you can employ a clever workaround to keep your laundry going:
- Swapping Hoses Swap the hoses between the hot and cold water valves. This will confuse the machine into treating the hot water valve as the cold water valve and vice versa.
- Adjusting Wiring Swap the wires connected to the hot and cold water valves on the control board. This will ensure that the machine thinks it’s using the correct valve.
Final Thoughts
Repairing your Amana washing machine must not be a daunting task. With a bit of know-how and these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to diagnose and resolve common water valve issues, keeping your laundry routine uninterrupted. Remember, if you’re not comfortable with the repair process, don’t hesitate to contact a professional technician. Happy washing!