How do you replace a washing machine inlet valve?

Replacing a faulty washing machine inlet valve is a fairly straightforward home repair that can save you money compared to calling a technician. With some basic tools and a new inlet valve kit, you can typically replace this part in under an hour. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a washing machine inlet valve correctly.

What is a Washing Machine Inlet Valve?

The inlet valve is the part that connects the hot and cold water supply hoses to the washing machine. It controls the flow of water into the machine. There are two main types of inlet valves:

  • Mechanical valve – This uses a rubber diaphragm or flapper that opens when water pressure pushes on it. When the washer fills, the pressure stops and the valve closes.
  • Electric solenoid valve – This uses an electromagnet to open and close the valve when the washer calls for water. The valve requires power to operate.

Symptoms of a failing inlet valve include the washer not filling at all, slow filling, or water leaking when the washer is off. Replacing the valve requires shutting off the hot and cold supply lines, disconnecting the hoses, and removing the bad valve before installing the new one.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather the following tools and supplies before starting this repair:

  • Adjustable wrenches (two)
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Bucket
  • Rags or towels
  • Replacement inlet valve kit (match your model)

Turn Off Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the hot and cold water supply lines behind the washing machine:

  1. Locate the water supply valve on the wall behind the washer for each hose.
  2. Turn the hot and cold knobs clockwise to shut off water flow.
  3. Turn on the washing machine to allow water to drain out of the hoses.
  4. Once drained, turn off power to the washer by unplugging it or flipping the circuit breaker.

Disconnect Water Supply Hoses

With the water shut off, you can now disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the machine:

  1. Have a bucket and rags ready to catch any water left in the hoses.
  2. Use a wrench to loosen the couplings attaching each hose to the inlet valve.
  3. Unscrew the couplings completely once water stops dripping out.
  4. Detach the hoses from the inlet valve ports.

Remove Old Inlet Valve

Next, remove the faulty inlet valve from the back of the washer:

  1. Remove any plastic trim panel on the back to access the valve.
  2. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the inlet valve bracket.
  3. Pull the valve out from the back of the machine.
  4. Inspect the valve ports and washers – damage means they should be replaced.

Install New Inlet Valve

Now you can install the new replacement inlet valve:

  1. Make sure to get the exact same valve model for proper fit.
  2. Slide the new valve into the opening and secure the bracket.
  3. Attach the water supply hoses to the new valve.
  4. Tighten the couplings with a wrench until snug.
  5. Replace the back trim panel if removed earlier.

Restore Water Supply

The last step is to turn the water back on and verify proper operation:

  1. Turn on the hot and cold shut-off valves.
  2. Check for leaks at the valve and hose couplings.
  3. Plug washing machine back in and run a test cycle.
  4. Make sure it fills properly without leaks.

Conclusion

Replacing a faulty washing machine inlet valve is a fairly easy DIY home repair. With some basic tools and a new valve kit, you can often swap out the old valve in under an hour. Just be sure to turn off water supply lines, disconnect hoses without kinking them, install the replacement valve properly, and check for leaks before using the washer. Following these steps allows you to fix the issue without calling a repair technician.