Top Load Washer - Fill Function

Starting in 2015, GE Appliances top load washers are using an advanced fill algorithm enabled by the electronic or rotary-electronic (knob) controls to fill the washer based on time. Before 2015, top load washers used a water level pressure switch. For more information on these models, please see our Washer - Positive Pressure Fill article.

 

Understanding the Fill Function On a Top Load Washer

How the Fill Algorithm Works

  • The fill method takes an input from either the automatic load sensing algorithm or the load size selection switch on the backsplash, depending upon the model.
  • The fill system uses flow regulated water valves, which makes the water flow rate into the washer consistent over the full operating range of supply water pressures.
    • It is normal to notice the flow rate on a Warm temp setting to be greater than Cold (Cold being slower). Both the Hot and Cold valves are on during a Warm fill so the flow rate of water coming into the washer is about twice as fast in that case. The spray rinse operation is designed to work with the flow rate of the cold valve only, so the washer will rinse well at that flow rate.
  • The fill system takes the water flow rate into the washer and fills for a specific time to provide the water level sensed or chosen for the particular load.

Factors That Affect Fill

It is important to note that there must be sufficient water pressure supplied to the washer to ensure proper operation of the washer.

 
  • The supply water pressure must be between 20 PSI - 120 PSI as specified in the Installation Instructions for your specific model. Be sure your water supply pressure is in this range for correct fill operation.
  • It is important that there are no restrictions in the household plumbing or inlet hoses to ensure your washer fills as intended. Specifically, screens in the washer inlet hoses and screens in the water valve inlets should be free of debris and scale. For more information, see our Washer - Screens in Hot & Cold Water Inlets / Connections article.

Slow Fill / Not Enough Water

  • If you have concerns over how your washer is filling, first check that you have a minimum of 20 PSI water pressure at the washer while the washer is filling and that the screens are clear of debris before calling for service.
  • You may want to take a look at our Top Load Washer - No Fill article.
  • Further note that new GE Appliances washer models meet or exceed the latest energy and water efficiency requirements. Therefore, you may notice that your washer fills with less water than your prior model did. This is normal. GE Appliances washers are designed for and are thoroughly tested using modern water levels and will provide the exceptional cleaning you have come to expect from GE Appliances.

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