How do you know which washer water level setting to choose when you put a pile of laundry in the machine? Do you take a guess? You’ll save energy, water and money if you understand how to select the appropriate load size on your machine.

Determining Maximum Load Size

Do you know how much laundry your washer can actually clean in one load? The average full-size top-loading washer, with an interior capacity of about 3 to 4 cubic feet, can clean about 12 to 16 pounds of laundry. Large-capacity machines with 5 or more cubic feet can hold up to about 20 pounds. Look on your machine or in your product manual to find your model’s capacity, and determine the maximum load size for your washer.

You can get an idea of what this maximum load size looks like ― and avoid overloading the machine ― by bagging up some laundry and weighing it. For the sake of reference, a twin-size bedspread weighs about 4 pounds.

Setting the Washer Water Level

Most top-loading washing machines have at least three load size settings, and you’ll want to choose the right setting for every load without having to weigh the laundry. Fortunately, most machines follow the same general guidelines for water level settings. Choose your setting based upon how full the washer looks. A small load of laundry fills the machine about one-third full. A medium load fills about half of the washer, and a large load fills it about three-quarters full. Make sure to load the laundry loosely into the machine; if you pack it in, you may end up picking an incorrect setting and your laundry won’t come out clean.

How Washer Water Levels Work

After you set the load size and turn the machine on, the tub begins to fill. On the outside of the tub, a pressure switch tube also begins to fill with water, pushing air toward the top of the tube. Once the desired fill level has been reached, the switch is activated and the washer stops filling.

If your washing machine isn’t filling properly, you may have a damaged or defective water level switch. In most cases, a washing machine repair specialist can easily replace a cracked or loose tube. Failing to have this repaired, however, can be a sure recipe for disaster. If the switch doesn’t activate to stop the flow of water, the tub will continue to fill, potentially overflowing and flooding your home. Experts advise that you keep an eye on your washing machine whenever it’s in use, to avoid any such problems.

Need advice on the load sizes for your washer or help determining if your machine is filling properly? Contact the experienced professionals at Complete Appliance Repair, serving Bountiful, Woods Cross and the surrounding communities. We have the knowledge and experience to troubleshoot and repair any home appliance problems, and we will be happy to help you understand your washer’s water level and operation.