Replacing a faulty washer valve is a common repair that most homeowners will need to make at some point. Washer valves control the flow of hot and cold water into the machine. Over time, mineral deposits can build up and cause the valves to fail. When this happens, the washer may not fill properly or at all. Replacing a bad valve is usually a straightforward DIY project that can save you money compared to calling a technician. In this article, we’ll look at the typical costs of washer valve replacement parts and compare repair vs replacement.
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What is a Washer Valve?
Washers have hot and cold water inlet valves that connect to the hot and cold house water supply lines. When the washer calls for water, the valves open to allow water into the machine. The valves are controlled electronically by the washer computer board.
There are two main types of washer inlet valves:
Solenoid Valves
The most common are solenoid valves. These consist of an electromagnet coil that, when energized, lifts a plunger and allows water to flow through the valve. When the valve is closed, a spring forces the plunger back down to cut off water flow.
Motorized Ball Valves
Some washers use motorized ball valves instead of solenoids. A small electric motor turns a ball inside the valve to open and close the water flow.
In either style, the valves are controlled by the washer’s computer. Power is sent to the solenoid coil or valve motor when the washer calls for water. The valves shut off automatically when the washer has filled to the desired level.
Symptoms of a Bad Washer Valve
Faulty washer valves usually fail in one of two ways:
Valve Fails to Open
If a washer valve won’t open, the washer won’t fill with water. You’ll usually get an error code on the display if this happens.
Valve Won’t Shut Off
A valve that won’t fully close may allow water to leak into the washer tub when not in use. This can cause overflowing if the leakage is excessive.
Other symptoms of worn out washer valves include:
– Taking a very long time for the tub to fill
– Reduced water flow and pressure into the washer
– Higher energy bills due to constantly heating leaking water
– Noisy operation of the valves
– Rusty or corroded valves
Any of these issues indicate it’s time to replace the faulty valves. Catching problems early can prevent more extensive leakage damage down the road.
Cost of Replacement Washer Valves
The cost to replace your washer inlet valves will depend on a few factors:
Valve Type
Basic mechanical solenoid valves are the most affordable option. Expect to pay $15-$30 for each new valve. Some newer washers use electronic digital valves that can cost $50-$100 apiece.
Brand Name vs Generic
Opting for the generic, universal replacement valves can save you 50% or more over brand-name OEM parts from the washer manufacturer. Generic valves typically work just as well as the originals.
Number of Valves
Washers either have two valves (one hot and one cold) or a single dual inlet valve. If you have two separate hot and cold valves, your replacement costs will be doubled compared to a single valve model.
Labor Costs
If you hire a plumber or appliance repair technician to replace the valves, you’ll pay an hourly rate for labor. This can range from $65-$125 per hour. DIY valve replacement can save you this expense.
As a general guide, you can expect to pay:
– $30-$60 for generic solenoid valve pairs
– $60-$150 for OEM brand-name solenoid valves
– $100-$200 for digital electronic valve pairs
– $100+ for labor if you hire a plumber
Shopping online for valve replacement kits can help you find the best deal. Be sure to search using your washer’s exact model number.
Replacing Washer Valves: DIY vs Hiring a Plumber
Is it worth tackling washer valve replacement yourself or better to pay for a professional? Here’s a comparison of the DIY vs hired plumber approach:
DIY Valve Replacement
With some basic mechanical skills, most homeowners can replace their own washer valves. The job typically takes 1-2 hours with the right tools.
Advantages of DIY valve replacement:
– Saves on the hourly cost of a plumber’s labor
– Lower cost using generic valves from home improvement stores
– Faster project completion compared to waiting for a plumber appointment
The main requirements are shutting off your house water supply and disconnecting the old hoses. Make sure to use new, high-quality stainless steel hoses when you reconnect the new valves. Keep in mind that working in tight quarters behind washers can be difficult. Having patience and proper tools is key.
Overall though, if you’re comfortable tackling basic home repairs, replacing washer valves yourself can save you at least $100 compared to hiring a professional.
Hiring a Plumber
The main advantage of hiring an appliance repair plumber is that they have all the proper tools and experience to make the job quick and easy. They can complete the valve swap faster than a DIY novice. The peace of mind of having it done right is worth the cost for some homeowners.
Disadvantages of hiring a plumber include:
– Hourly labor fees of $65-$125, minimum 1 hour
– May charge more for emergency same-day repairs
– Have to wait for an open appointment time
Consider hiring a plumber if:
– You don’t feel comfortable shutting off your home’s water and disconnecting hoses
– The valves are in very tight, hard to reach spaces
– Your home has corrosion or very old plumbing
– You want brand-name OEM valves installed
Overall, while hiring a plumber may provide convenience, it comes at a price. For basic washer valve replacement on accessible modern valves, DIY provides the best value for most homeowners.
Replacing vs Repairing Washer Valves
Once a washer inlet valve starts having issues, you’re usually better off with a complete replacement rather than attempting repairs. Here’s why:
Modern Valves Are Not Serviceable
Manufacturers don’t make replacement internal parts available for most modern valves. Solenoid valves have pressed-in coils that cannot be changed. The plastic housings also tend to be brittle and prone to cracking if taken apart.
Even professional plumbers will just replace the entire valve. There’s nothing internal that can reasonably be repaired.
New Valves Are Affordable
With basic valves costing as little as $15-$30 each, replacement is very affordable. Investing time trying to resurrect an old valve that will likely fail again usually isn’t worth the hassle.
New valves also provide improved water conservation. Worn out valves may leak and waste water even when nominally shut off.
Fresh Start with New Valves
Putting in new replacement valves allows you to reconnect fresh, leak-free hoses as well. This improves reliability compared to reusing old hoses. Investing in a valve replacement kit with new hoses gives you performance like new for minimal cost.
In summary, attempting to repair washer inlet valves is largely a losing proposition. Complete valve replacement kits provide the best value and performance. Go with new valves and save yourself the headache.
DIY Washer Valve Replacement Procedure
Replacing worn out washer water inlet valves yourself can save you a lot of money in labor charges. Follow these steps for a successful DIY valve swap:
Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shutoff valves for the hot and cold water lines connected to the back of your washer. Turn them clockwise to shut off water to the washer.
Disconnect Power and Hoses
Unplug the washer power cord from the outlet. Then use pliers to disconnect the hoses from the worn out valves. Place a towel beneath to catch any water.
Remove Old Valves
Take out the screws holding each valve in place. Remove the valves and clean any dirt or excess plumber’s putty from the openings.
Install New Valves
Apply fresh plumber’s putty around the base of the new valves. Insert them into the openings and tighten the screws securely.
Attach New Hoses
Use new stainless steel braided hoses to connect the valves to the washer’s water inlets. Make sure the gaskets are in place in the hose fittings. Tighten by hand, then give an extra quarter turn with pliers.
Restore Water and Power
Turn the water supply back on slowly. Check for any leaks at connections and tighten them if needed. Plug the washer power cord back in.
Test Operation
Run a test cycle on the washer to verify proper filling and no leaks. The new valves should provide quiet, leak-free performance once again.
Replacing washer valves takes some diligence working in tight areas but can save you significant repair costs. Follow these steps carefully for a smooth valve replacement DIY project.
Troubleshooting Washer Valve Problems
If your washer has symptoms of a faulty water inlet valve, there are a few quick troubleshooting steps to take before replacing them:
Check Error Codes
Most washers today have digital displays that show error codes. Look for any codes related to water fill issues or valve problems. This can confirm diagnosis of a bad valve.
Check Hose Leaks
Loose hose connections can let water leak out. Inspect all hoses carefully and tighten any loose connections. Replace any hoses that are worn or bulging.
Clean Valve Screens
Debris like sand or silt can clog the small filter screens inside inlet valves. Disconnect hoses and use a toothpick or needle to gently clean out the screens.
Check Power to Valves
Use a multimeter to test for power at the electrical connection to the valves during a fill cycle. No power could indicate a bad timer or control board not energizing the valve.
Flush Valves
Mineral buildup can sometimes stick valves shut. Disconnect the hoses and use a funnel to pour white vinegar or citric acid solution into the valves. Let it soak for 30 minutes before flushing clean with water.
Troubleshoot issues systematically to determine if valve replacement is necessary. Evaluate all other potential causes like leaks, debris, power problems, or lime buildup before replacing valves.
Conclusion
Having to replace leaky or corroded washer valves is an inevitable issue that most homeowners will eventually face. By tackling valve replacement yourself and shopping carefully for parts, you can save hundreds of dollars compared to appliance repair costs. Basic mechanical solenoid valves only cost $15-$30 each and are within reach of DIYers. With proper planning and procedure, you can swap out faulty washer valves and have your machine filling properly again in just an hour or two. Invest a small amount upfront in new replacement valves to avoid the ongoing hassle of leaks and errors.
| Washer Valve Replacement Cost Summary | |
|---|---|
| Generic Solenoid Valve Pair | $30-$60 |
| OEM Brand Name Valve Pair | $60-$150 |
| Digital Electronic Valve Pair | $100-$200 |
| Plumber Hourly Labor Rate | $65-$125 |