What is an inlet screen on a washer?

The inlet screen, also known as the water inlet valve filter screen, is a small filter located in the water inlet valve assembly of a washing machine. It serves an important function – to filter out any debris, minerals or sediment from the water supply before it enters the washer.

What does the inlet screen do?

The inlet screen’s job is to trap any particles that could clog internal components like the water inlet valve itself, hoses, pumps or other critical parts of the washer. By filtering the water, it helps prevent premature failure or malfunction of these components. Some of the types of contaminants the screen catches include:

• Sand, silt or sediment
• Rust particles or mineral deposits
• Tiny pebbles or grit
• Detergent or soap buildup
• Fabric lint or fibers
• Small items like hair clips, pins or other debris

Without the inlet screen, these particles could get caught in the washing machine’s inner workings, potentially causing clogs, restrictions, leaks or water flow problems. The screen helps capture these before they can cause damage or lead to costly repairs.

Where is the inlet screen located?

The inlet screen is found inside the water inlet valve, which is the part that connects the washer’s water hoses to the machine. The valve controls the hot and cold water supply. When the washer calls for water, the inlet valve opens to allow it to flow into the tub or drum.

Inside this valve assembly is a small plastic filter basket that contains a fine mesh screen. As water passes through the valve, it must travel through this screen first, trapping any debris or particles. The inlet screen sits perpendicular to the water flow so that it can capture contaminants head-on.

Why is cleaning the inlet screen important?

Like any filter, the inlet screen can get clogged over time as it collects more and more debris. A clogged screen can restrict water flow into the washer. This may cause a number of problems such as:

• Low water pressure
• Longer fill times
• Valve not opening fully
• Valve leaking
• Noisy valve operation
• Water flow errors
• Problems with wash cycles

Cleaning the screen removes built-up sediment and restores proper water flow. This helps the valve function smoothly and can prevent bigger issues from arising. Most manufacturers recommend periodically cleaning the inlet screen as part of routine washer maintenance.

How to clean the inlet screen

Cleaning the inlet screen is a relatively quick and simple process. Here are the basic steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the washer and disconnect the inlet hoses.
2. Locate the inlet valve on the rear of the washer.
3. Unscrew the inlet valve’s retaining nut to access the screen housing.
4. Remove the screen housing and pull out the plastic filter basket.
5. Remove the screen from the basket and rinse it with water.
6. Use a toothbrush or other soft brush to gently scrub the screen to remove residue.
7. Rinse the screen housing and filter basket as well.
8. Reassemble the components and screw the inlet valve back into place.
9. Reconnect the hoses and turn the water back on.
10. Check for leaks and proper water flow.

With the inlet screen cleaned, you can restore normal operation of the water inlet valve. Be sure to clean the screen on a periodic basis as part of your washer maintenance routine.

Signs your inlet screen needs cleaning

Here are some signs that indicate it may be time to clean your washer’s inlet screen:

• Water takes longer than usual to fill the tub
• The water level seems low compared to normal washes
• You hear the valve making straining or hissing noises when water is flowing
• The inlet valve does not shut off completely when fill is complete
• Small leaks coming from the valve when the machine is filling
• The washer stops mid-cycle due to a water flow error
• Clothes not rinsing properly or detergent residue left on them
• Excessive noise coming from the valve during operation

Paying attention to these signs and cleaning the screen promptly can restore proper performance and prevent bigger problems from developing.

How often should the inlet screen be cleaned?

Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the inlet screen every 6 months as part of routine maintenance. However, the frequency may need to be increased based on the following factors:

• Hardness of water – Hard water areas with high mineral content require more frequent cleaning.
• Old pipes – Homes with aging or corroding pipes tend to shed more sediment.
• Use of liquid detergent – Liquid detergents can cause buildup on the screen.
• Heavy use – Homes doing multiple loads daily need more cleaning.

Ideally, check the condition of the screen whenever you notice any problems with the inlet valve function. If the screen is clogged, clean it and monitor performance. Adjust your cleaning frequency accordingly. Every 3-4 months is a good rule of thumb for hard water areas or heavy use.

Inlet Screen vs Filter – What’s the Difference?

The inlet screen should not be confused with the pump filter found on many washers. While both are filtration devices, they serve different functions:

• Inlet Screen – Sits inside the water inlet valve. Filters water entering the washer.
• Pump Filter – Located on the pump assembly. Filters water recirculating during wash and rinse cycles.

The inlet screen filters the water supply before it reaches the tub. The pump filter traps lint and debris in the washer tub before it can be pumped out. Some washers will have both types of filters.

Common inlet screen problems

Some common issues related to the inlet screen include:

• Clogging – Sediment buildup impedes water flow. Cleaning the screen can restore normal operation.
• Crack or damage – A cracked inlet screen allows debris to bypass the filter and enter the valves and hoses. The screen requires replacement.
• Missing screen – If the screen falls off or is not installed correctly after cleaning, it will fail to filter debris. The screen must be replaced.
• Incorrect installation – If reinstalled upside down, the screen will not properly filter water. Check orientation.
• Faulty valve – A defective inlet valve may not close properly or leaks even with a clean screen. This indicates a bad valve.

Always start by cleaning the inlet screen thoroughly to see if it improves any water flow issues. If problems persist, the inlet valve itself may need to be replaced.

How to prevent inlet screen clogs

To help keep your inlet screen clear and prevent frequent clogs:

• Clean the screen regularly every 3-6 months.
• Use a water softener if you have hard water.
• Install sediment filters on your home’s main water lines.
• Avoid using liquid detergents which can leave residue.
• Run an occasional tub clean cycle with bleach or a washer cleaner.
• Check hoses and valves for leaks that allow sediment to enter.
• Replace plastic inlet hoses every 5 years.

Proper care and maintenance will maximize the lifespan of your washer’s inlet screen and valve components.

When to replace the inlet screen

Most inlet screens are made of durable plastic or nylon and can be reused after cleaning for many years. But here are some signs it may need replacement:

• Visible cracks, warps or other damage on the screen.
• Mineral deposits or debris that cannot be removed by cleaning.
• A loose fit in the filter basket after cleaning.
• Leaking or dripping from the valve continues after thorough cleaning.
• The screen has become misshapen and does not sit properly in the housing.

It is relatively inexpensive and easy to replace the inlet screen. New replacement screens can be ordered through most appliance parts suppliers. Be sure to get the right part number for your model.

Conclusion

The inlet screen is a simple but important component that helps protect your washing machine from damage while filtering out debris. While not visible from the outside, periodically cleaning this screen is essential to ensure proper performance and a long lifespan for your washer. Adding this task to your regular washer maintenance routine can save you from costly repairs down the road.