Samsung Washer Water Inlet Valve
Replacement valve when supply and screens are good.
$45
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The nF error on a Samsung washer stands for “no fill” — the machine started the fill cycle but water didn’t reach the required level within the allotted time. This is closely related to the 4E error and the fixes are identical. Start by checking your water supply before assuming the washer itself has a problem.
Quick Reference
| Code | Meaning | Severity | DIY or Call |
|---|---|---|---|
| nF | No water fill | Low | DIY |
| 4E / 4C | Same fill fault (newer) | Low | DIY |
| nF1 | Water valve circuit | Medium | DIY or Call |
What This Error Means
When you start a cycle, the washer opens its inlet valve and waits for water to flow in. It monitors fill rate and total water level. If the drum doesn’t reach the required water level within about 4 minutes, nF appears and the cycle stops.
In most cases the issue is upstream of the machine — not the machine itself.
Common Causes
- Supply valves not fully open — The single most common cause. One or both valves behind the machine are partially closed.
- Clogged inlet screens — Mineral deposits and sediment clog the small mesh filters where the hoses connect to the machine. Very common in hard water areas.
- Low water pressure — Samsung specifies a minimum of 20 PSI. Low-pressure buildings, peak-usage hours, or a partially closed main shutoff can trigger nF.
- Kinked supply hose — A hose with a sharp bend restricts flow, especially when the machine is pushed close to the wall.
- Failed inlet valve — If the supply side checks out, the internal valve solenoid that opens to let water in has failed.
Step-by-Step Fix
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Turn both supply valves fully counterclockwise. The hot (left) and cold (right) valves behind the washer should both rotate freely to the fully open position. Even a half-turn restriction can cause nF.
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Check for hose kinks. Pull the machine forward about 6 inches from the wall and look at both inlet hoses. They should have gentle bends. Straighten any sharp kinks and push the machine back with enough clearance (at least 4 inches from the wall).
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Clean the inlet screens.
- Turn off both supply valves.
- Unscrew the hoses at the back of the machine — hot first, then cold.
- Look into the threaded ports. You’ll see small circular mesh screens.
- Remove with needle-nose pliers, rinse under the tap, scrub with a toothbrush if needed.
- Press back in and reconnect hoses. Snug them hand-tight plus a quarter turn.
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Test water pressure. Attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor hose bib. 20 PSI is the minimum; 40–60 PSI is normal. If pressure is below 20 PSI, contact your water utility or a plumber.
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Test the inlet valve solenoid. With the machine unplugged, remove the back panel to access the inlet valve. Use a multimeter set to resistance (ohms) and test each solenoid terminal pair. A good solenoid reads 500–1500 ohms. An open circuit (infinite resistance) means the solenoid has failed.
Parts You May Need
- Samsung washer water inlet valve assembly
- Washing machine inlet hose screens filters
- Washing machine inlet hose set
- Water pressure gauge hose fitting
When to Call a Technician
If cleaning screens and confirming full supply pressure doesn’t fix nF, the inlet valve has failed. Replacing it requires accessing the back panel, disconnecting hoses and wiring connectors, and swapping the valve body. It’s a straightforward repair for anyone comfortable with basic appliance work. If not, it’s a 30-minute job for an appliance technician.