Kenmore 800 not filling all the way

[Joe Schmoe 83]

I have an old-ass Kenmore 800 top-load washer (Model #11029822800) and it only fills halfway. But if you open/close the lid when the wash cycle stops, it fills to the correct level. I juset bought a new load-sensing sensor -- is that the right part? I'm handy-ish but not SUUUUUPER handy — wondering if I'm over my skis here...

[DADoESTX]

This model has automatic water level sensing.  It should initially fill to a low level, agitate a bit to slosh the clothes to insure they're saturated, then add more water if needed.  Opening/closing the lid before the sensing process is settled makes it default to the maximum fill level.

[smartappcentre]

Hi there 

We had  a similar problem with mine (same model) a while back. Turns out the water inlet valve was starting to give out. It would open, but just not enough to get a full flow going.

Here's a couple things to check before you go replacing parts:

• Water pressure: Make sure the hot and cold faucets are fully open and you've got good pressure. It sounds simple,but sometimes it's the easy fixes we overlook.
• Hoses: Check the hoses for kinks or clogs. Sometimes sediment builds up and can restrict the flow.
• Inlet screens: There are little screens inside the hose connections on the washer. These can get clogged too.Disconnect the hoses (turn off the water first!) and clean those screens out.

If none of that works, it's probably the water inlet valve. It's not the hardest thing to replace yourself if you're a little handy.