Washer Won't Rinse: Fix It Yourself (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

If your washer won't rinse, first check the water supply valves to ensure they're fully open. Then inspect the inlet filters for clogs. If those are fine, the drain pump or pump filter might be blocked, or the water level pressure switch could be faulty.

Confirm the symptom

Washer fills with water but doesn't start the rinse cycle
Drum spins but no water enters during rinse
Washer beeps or displays an error code during rinse attempt
Water level doesn't rise during rinse phase
Machine makes gurgling sounds but no rinse water

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Adjustable wrench
Flashlight
Microfiber cloth
Replacement filters or screens (if needed)
Bucket (for potential water spillage)
Turn off power at the circuit breaker
Shut off water supply valves before inspecting components

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Water Supply Valves
Do: Locate the cold and hot water valves behind the washer and ensure they're fully open.
Observe: Valves are open and water flows freely from the hoses.
Means: Water supply is not the issue if valves are open and water flows.
Next: Inspect inlet filters
Inspect Inlet Filters
Do: Turn off the water supply and disconnect the inlet hoses. Remove the filters from the back of the washer and clean them.
Observe: Filters are free of debris and sediment.
Means: Clogged filters can prevent water from entering during the rinse cycle.
Next: Test washer operation
Test Washer Operation
Do: Reconnect the inlet hoses and restore water supply. Run a rinse cycle to see if water enters properly.
Observe: Washer fills with water during the rinse cycle.
Means: Issue resolved if water enters normally after cleaning filters.
Next: Check drain pump and pump filter
Check Drain Pump and Pump Filter
Do: Locate the drain pump (usually at the front or bottom of the washer) and inspect for blockages. Clean the pump filter if accessible.
Observe: Drain pump is free of lint, debris, or foreign objects.
Means: A clogged drain pump can prevent proper water flow and cause rinse issues.
Next: Inspect water level pressure switch
Inspect Water Level Pressure Switch
Do: Locate the pressure switch (connected to the water level tube) and check for damage or blockage in the tube.
Observe: Pressure switch and tube are intact and free of obstructions.
Means: A faulty pressure switch may prevent the washer from detecting proper water levels.
Next: Consult a professional technician
Consult a Professional Technician
Do: If previous steps don't resolve the issue, contact a licensed appliance repair service.
Observe: Washer still doesn't rinse after troubleshooting.
Means: The problem may involve complex components requiring professional diagnosis.
Next: End

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Clogged inlet filters Inlet filters can trap sediment and debris, restricting water flow during the rinse cycle.	Common	Easy	Inlet filters
Blocked drain pump or pump filter Lint, coins, or other objects can clog the drain pump, preventing proper water circulation.	Common	Easy–Medium	Drain pump filter
Faulty water level pressure switch A damaged or blocked pressure switch may not signal the washer to add water during the rinse cycle.	Sometimes	Medium	Water level pressure switch
Malfunctioning water inlet valve The inlet valve may be defective, preventing water from entering the washer during the rinse phase.	Sometimes	Medium	Water inlet valve
Control board issue A faulty control board may not send the correct signals to initiate the rinse cycle.	Rare	Hard	Control board
Incorrect load size or imbalance Overloading or unevenly distributed laundry can trigger the washer to pause or skip the rinse cycle.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Water supply pressure issue Low water pressure from the home's supply can prevent adequate water flow during the rinse cycle.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Faulty drain pump A damaged drain pump may not function properly, causing water flow issues during the rinse cycle.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain pump

Parts matching

Common parts needed to fix a washer that won't rinse:

Inlet filters (often clogged with sediment)
Drain pump filter (can trap lint and debris)
Water level pressure switch (may need replacement if faulty)
Water inlet valve (controls water entry during rinse)
Drain pump (may need cleaning or replacement)

Purchase OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for compatibility and reliability.

When to call a professional

Washer still won't rinse after cleaning filters and pump
Error codes persist or worsen after troubleshooting
You hear unusual noises from the control board or motor
Water leaks from unexpected areas during operation
You're uncomfortable working with electrical components
The washer is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it

FAQ

Why is my washer not getting water during the rinse cycle?

This can be caused by clogged inlet filters, a blocked drain pump, a faulty water level pressure switch, or a malfunctioning water inlet valve.

How often should I clean the drain pump filter?

It's recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3–6 months, depending on usage and water hardness.

Can low water pressure cause rinse cycle problems?

Yes, low water pressure can prevent the washer from filling properly during the rinse cycle. Check your home's water supply pressure.

Is it safe to use a pressure washer to clean the inlet filters?

No, using a pressure washer can damage the filters or surrounding components. Clean with a soft brush and water only.

What should I do if the water level pressure switch is faulty?

Replace the pressure switch with a compatible OEM part. Ensure the water level tube is clear of obstructions before installation.

Can overloading the washer affect the rinse cycle?

Yes, overloading can trigger the washer's safety mechanisms, causing it to pause or skip the rinse cycle to prevent damage.