How to Fix a Water Level Switch for a Washer That Will Not Agitate

The water level switch, or pressure switch, on a top load washer is used to select the correct water level. If your washer is filling with water but not agitating, you should make sure that the water level switch is working. To find out if your water level switch is faulty, you need to test it with a multimeter. This information guide will show you how to do that, along with replacing the water level switch, if necessary.

What is a Water Level Switch? Where is it Located?

The water level switch, or pressure switch, on a top load washer is used to select the correct water level. The drive motor, which provides the power for agitation, receives the signal to start through contacts in water level switch. When the correct water level is reached, the switch removes power from the water inlet valve and supplies power to the drive motor circuit. The water level switch is usually found behind the control panel, but it can also be found at the sump area below the tubs.

General Location of the Water Level Switch in a Washer

How to Tell if the Water Level Switch is Damaged

If your washer is filling with water but not agitating, make sure that the water level switch is working. You can unplug the washer and check the terminals of the water level switch for continuity, using a wiring schematic for your washer model and your multimeter.

How to Test the Water Level Switch in a Washer with a Multimeter

1. Disconnect your washing machine from the power source.
2. The water level switch is usually found behind the control panel, but it can also be found at the sump area below the tubs.
3. Before replacing the switch, first eliminate the air dome hose as the problem. Remove the hose and submerge it in water. Then, seal one end, blow air into the other, and look for bubbles. You should also check for obstructions in the hose and look for signs of cracking or wear.
4. If no issues are found with the air dome hose, you may need a replacement water level switch.

How to Access and Remove the Water Level Switch

1. Disconnect the power supply to your washer, then move it away from the wall so that the back panel can be worked on.
2. Remove the water level knob from the front of the console.
3. Open the console and remove the air dome tube and wire harness from the switch.
4. Use a flat blade screwdriver to depress the tab, and twist the switch control out of the console.
5. To remove the air dome tubing, you need to remove the cabinet from the washer and pull the old tubing out.

How to Install a New Water Level Switch

1. Take the new switch and insert the shaft into the opening, then rotate until you hear the locking tab engage.
2. Reconnect the wire harness.
3. Take the new air dome tubing and ensure that it is the same length as the old tube. Then feed it into the machine, ensuring that it’s connected to the air dome on the outer tub and connected to the new switch.
4. Put the cabinet and console back in place and reinstall the level knob to the shaft.

Next: Troubleshooting the Electronic Control Board/User Interface

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