Whirlpool Washer won't fill

shellybellyb · 06-08-2012, 07:10 PM

Hi, I just got a new Whirlpool refrigerator, and to get water to it, I tapped into the cold water line for my washer, using a self tapping set up. The pressure is very very low....AND now my whirlpool washer won't fill during the rinse cycle. Any thoughts?

Protocol. · 06-08-2012, 08:37 PM

How did you "tap" into the line? How big is the line? Did you use one of those saddle-tap kits? It's a brass clamp that goes around the line and a needle that pierces the line for water. Those kits aren't the best, but they will typically do just fine.

Water pressure should not drop with any kind of small addition like a saddle valve. ensure that the added valve is fully open and any water valves for your washer are open as well.

Tom Struble · 06-08-2012, 08:59 PM

check the inlet hose screens where they connect to the washer,some times they clog and will slow down fill time

probably just a coincidence

shellybellyb · 06-09-2012, 12:38 PM

Hello Gentlemen!
Thank you for your input! @Protocol, yes, I used one of those self tapping saddle tap kits....
What actually happened was....
The guy that installed the refrigerator, had turned off the cold water line....
BUT...
the new problem is
there is hardly any pressure whatsoever for the water line to the fridge!
any more thoughts?

Protocol. · 06-09-2012, 02:37 PM

Make sure that handle of the tap is completely out. It may be a bit difficult, but it should come out a decent ways.

It's very possible there's something in the line or that the line is kinked. I would visibly check the line all the way to the appliance to make sure that there are no kinks.

Alternatively, you could turn off the water, remove the tube from the saddle tap, and turn the water back on to make sure there is enough pressure and flow at the saddle tap. When you re-install the tubing the nut will need to be finger tight + about a half turn.

shellybellyb · 06-09-2012, 03:09 PM

Thank you Protocol!
I have done all of those things....other than remove the hose from the saddle tap and keep the water on.....would I do that and just let the water flow out into a bucket or cup or something?
the line goes thru a wall, and is not kinked at any point.
The washer fills with plenty of pressure (from the same line I did the self tapper on)
I believe I have the self tapper all the way open. It won't turn any further...
I did not see any "screens" on the line...just the ends to connect that the water line came with....it is just like this only not commercial grade
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1...&storeId=10051
I am just typically someone these things do not work for! They are super easy for everyone else! I am a brand new homeowner DIY'er and want to learn!

hardwareman · 06-10-2012, 03:31 PM

do your self a big favor and take that self piercing valve off and install a good valve. self tappers are no good . If you can not do it yourself hire it done. If your refrig has an ice maker it will not fill properly and be a maintenance issue as long as that self tapper is on there, they simply do not allow enough water pressure because of the small hole they pierce.