Model #GHW9400PW1, the customer had returned from a weekend away, only to find water inside the tub of her trusty Duet washer when she attempted to do some wash. The door was closed while they were away, and there was only a little water that was easily drained by selecting the drain cycle. Everything looked good and the washer worked without any problems. But the next day, water was again sitting in the tub requiring a drain cycle to be run before doing any laundry. This pattern continued until I was given a call to have a look at the situation.
Standing water in the tub of any washing machine between cycles is an indication of either water continuing to enter from the faucet, or water not properly draining at the end of the cycle. The source of the water can usually be determined by simply looking to see if it is clean water from the fill valves, or dirty water that just didn't drain away. Either way, the problem needs to be addressed as it may be an indication of a problem with one of the washer parts like the drain pump or water fill valves.
The complaint on this washer was standing water and based on the customers description and a little investigation, the water was entering during periods of non use and the water was clean like it came from the faucet. This all but eliminated the source as being a blocked drain pump because one, it was clean water, and two, water entering back into the washer from the drain stand pipe would generally be accompanied by an error code due to siphoning. Which leaves us with the fill valves.
Water fill valves are used in most any appliance that uses water be it a washer, dishwasher, refrigerator for ice and water, or the now popular dryer with steam features. These valves are simple in their operation as they use a magnetic coil to open a plunger allowing water to flow. At the end of these plungers is a rubber membrane used to help seal the plunger to the housing when not in use. A combination of the plunger spring, and water pressure from the faucet holds the plunger shut and keeps the valves water tight when not in use. But if the membrane becomes damaged, or sediments in the water pipes enter the valve and become stuck at the opening, the plunger cannot seal the shut, and the valve will leak water. Usually it is a small amount that may take days to be noticed, while other times, the flow of water can be easily seen as a trickle from the fill hose.
Sometimes, simply removing the water hoses and cleaning the screens, then running water into the machine will be enough to flush the sediments away thus solving the problem. Other times, the only solution is to replace the valve assembly after clearing any debris from the water line. My personal experience suggests that it is best to replace the valve once it has started leaking. I don't say this because it makes me more money, but you must realise these valves are connected to you home plumbing and are under pressure 24/7, 365 and the potential for damage due to a water leak is always a possibility. So what I am saying is it is better to be safe than sorry.
Once the new inlet valve assembly was installed and the water connections put back in place, I ran a quick diagnostic cycle to make sure everything was working as it should. The customer can now be satisfied the washer is working and that there shouldn't be any problems with water in the tub between visits. At least for awhile.
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