Washing machines hold a crucial position in the majority of households, serving as essential appliances. Throughout history, significant transformations have taken place in the design and functionality of washing machines, resulting in the development of modern washers.
These advancements have empowered contemporary washing machines to be controlled remotely through smartphones. Hence, the question arises: Can washing machines overflow?
Despite the remarkable progress in technology, it remains important to remain vigilant for any potential problems that may arise with your washer.
If you’re curious to find out, keep reading!
Can Washing Machines Overflow?
Unfortunately, washing machines can overflow. A water overflow can happen due to some internal malfunction of the washing machine, such as the inlet valve being damaged or due to overloading the washing machine.
Why Do Washing Machines Overflow?
If your washing machine is overflowing, check and see what the issue might be. In order for you to do this, you need to be familiar with the parts of the washer. A part of a washing machine that is most often the reason for an overflow occurring is the inlet valve.
The input valve is the part that connects your home’s water line to the washer. The inlet valve is placed outside of the washing machine.
The intake valve opens to let water into the washing machine’s tank at the start of a wash cycle and closes once the water level sensor indicates the appropriate level of water has been reached.
Issues with the valve
If the valve is broken, it will not respond to the sensor’s signal and will keep filling the tank, causing it to overflow. If the issue is the faulty intake valve, you should change it in order to resolve the problem. Another potential cause of your washer spilling is the low water pressure at the inlet valve.
A leak can result from the valve not closing properly when the water pressure is too low. You should check your intake valve and see if it leaks. Your washer may overflow as a result of the ongoing leak. The water may overflow if there are too many clothes in the washer.
Build up of particles
If there is a build-up of lint, mud, and other particles in your washing machine, they might eventually jam its drainage system. You can solve this problem in some washing machines by adding a lint trap. It would be best if you read through the washer’s guide manual to see how to solve a clog.
Read more: What To Do When Washing Machine Overflows With Bubbles?
What to Do If the Washing Machine Overflows
Turn off the electricity to the washing machine
It is common knowledge that water and electricity do not mix, as the outcome can be fatal. When there is electricity, standing water or overflowing water can be incredibly dangerous. You cannot remove the risk by just pressing the off button on the washer. The plug for the outlet might also have come into contact with water.
If you want to avoid being shocked, ensure to turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Once you have removed all standing water from the area and determined whether it is safe to have electricity near the overflowed area, turn the power on.
Check the water pressure
Water overflow can be caused by low water pressure. The water inlet valve typically requires at least 20 PSI to close properly. If this requirement is not met, the inlet valve might not shut off properly, allowing water to leak.
If you find that the water pressure is the cause for your washer overflowing, you will need to contact a plumber, as the water will continue to flow due to the inlet valve’s inability to close.
Inspect the drain hose
Another thing to do is to check if the drain hose on your washer is backed up. You should disconnect the drain pipe before checking that it has a free flow. Cleaning the obstruction may just take a few blows into the pipe.
In addition, ensure the drain hose is clear of any holes. You can find minor holes by submerging the hose in water. Blowing air into the hose while sealing one end with your palm will produce bubbles. Plug the holes or replace the hose if the damage is too severe.
Also read: Do Washing Machines Come With A Drain Hose?
Conclusion
So, can washing machines overflow? In short, yes. Washing machines can sometimes malfunction, leading to them overflowing. On the other hand, the fault for overflow may even be in you if you often overload your washer.
Depending on how much water overflows, you might be able to clean it up and fix the issue. However, if the damage is too severe, you need to call a repair service.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and empowered you to take control of your laundry routine. Remember, a little bit of care and attention can go a long way in ensuring your washing machine operates smoothly without any overflowing surprises.
Stay tuned for more helpful articles on home maintenance and troubleshooting. Happy washing!
