# How to Fix Samsung Error nF (No Fill)
The Samsung error code **nF** is one of the most common issues reported, especially in top-load and front-load models. Fortunately, it is often a straightforward fix.
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## 1. Explanation: What Does the nF Code Mean?
The **nF** code is a diagnostic message indicating **”No Fill”** or **”No Flow.”**
In simple terms, your washing machine attempted to fill the drum with water for a specified period (typically between 6 and 8 minutes) but failed to register the required water level. The machine registers this as a water supply issue and stops the cycle to prevent damage.
While the most likely culprit is a faulty **Water Inlet Valve**, you must check the external factors first.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the nF Error
Follow these steps sequentially, starting with the easiest external checks before proceeding to internal component replacement.
### Step 1: Check External Water Supply (The Faucets)
The machine cannot fill if the water supply is restricted or shut off.
1. **Locate the Faucets:** Find the hot and cold water faucets behind the washing machine.
2. **Verify Faucet Position:** Ensure both faucets are fully turned to the **ON** position. It is common for housemates or repair personnel to accidentally shut them off partially or completely.
3. **Check Water Pressure:** If you have access, disconnect the hoses and manually run water into a bucket to verify adequate pressure. Low pressure can trick the machine into believing the valve is bad.
### Step 2: Inspect the Inlet Hoses and Screens
If the water source is confirmed to be on, the next point of failure is often blockage where the hose meets the machine.
1. **Unplug the Washer:** Always disconnect power before touching internal components or hoses.
2. **Disconnect Hoses:** Unscrew both the hot and cold water inlet hoses from the back of the washer.
3. **Clean the Inlet Screens:** Inside the washer’s inlet ports (where the hoses attach), there are small mesh screens (filters). These screens frequently get clogged with rust, debris, or sediment, severely restricting water flow.
4. **Clean:** Use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to carefully remove the screens. Rinse them thoroughly under running water or use an old toothbrush to remove blockage.
5. **Reinstall and Test:** Reattach the cleaned screens and hoses, plug the machine back in, and run a short test cycle.
### Step 3: Verify the Drain Hose Position (Siphon Effect)
Sometimes the machine *is* filling correctly, but the water is immediately draining out due to an improper drain hose setup. This is called a “siphon effect,” and it prevents the water level sensor from registering the fill.
1. **Check Drain Height:** Ensure the drain hose (the large hose that goes into the standpipe or sink) is properly secured.
2. **Maintain Loop:** The highest point of the drain hose loop must be at least **34 inches (86 cm)** above the floor. If the hose is sitting too low, the water will automatically siphon out as fast as it comes in, causing the nF error.
### Step 4: Test and Replace the Water Inlet Valve (The Main Culprit)
If the external checks fail, the nF error is almost certainly caused by a failed Water Inlet Valve. This valve is an electromechanical device that uses solenoids (small electromagnets) to open and close the internal water passageways. If the solenoid fails, the valve cannot open, regardless of whether the water supply is on.
**Diagnosis:**
1. **Access the Valve:** Depending on your model (top-load or front-load), you will need to unscrew and remove the back panel or top panel of the washing machine. The valve is located just behind the water inlet ports where the hoses attach.
2. **Visual Inspection (Solenoids):** Check the electrical connectors and wires leading to the solenoids. Look for signs of corrosion or burnt components.
3. **Ohm Meter Test (Advanced):** If you have a multimeter, disconnect the power wires from the valve solenoids. Check the resistance (Ohms) across the terminals of each solenoid. A healthy solenoid usually registers between **800 to 1,200 Ohms**. If you get a reading of infinity (OL) or zero, the solenoid is burnt out, and the valve must be replaced.
**If the valve fails the Ohm test, or if Steps 1–3 failed to resolve the issue, you must replace the entire Water Inlet Valve assembly.**
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**Replacement Action**
Check the price for a replacement Water Inlet Valve here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Samsung+Water Inlet Valve&tag=trivian-20