Washing machine not filling with water — likely causes and safe checks (UK)

No water coming in is usually the tap behind the machine or a blocked inlet filter — both take two minutes to check.

Likely causes, ranked

Tap turned off or partially off Most likely — The small valve behind the machine is often knocked closed when moving the machine.
Blocked inlet hose filter mesh Likely — Grit in the water supply collects in the mesh washer inside the hose nut.
Kinked inlet hose Likely — Hoses crushed behind the machine restrict flow.
Failed inlet valve Less likely — If tap, mesh and hose are fine but no water enters, the electric inlet valve has failed.

Turn the tap behind the machine fully anti-clockwise.
Turn off the tap, unscrew the hose at the machine end, and clean the mesh filter inside the nut.
Check the hose path is not kinked or crushed.
Reconnect, turn on the tap, and check for leaks at the joint.
Run a short cycle.

Turn the water off before disconnecting the hose. Water pressure can spray — hold the hose over a bowl.

Call a professional if the machine still will not fill with a clear hose and open tap — the inlet valve needs replacing.