How to Fix an Inlet Valves for a Washer That Will Not Dispense
If your washing machine is not dispensing detergent, this might be because of an issue with your washer’s valves. When these valves aren’t working correctly, it can cause the water that’s normally supplied to your washer to be weak or not come at all. This can happen because of things in the water, or just general buildups within the valves themselves around the connectors. In cases like this, you may have a leak or no water flow at all. Our guide below will help you through every step of a repair for your valves, from diagnosing them to installation – to get your washer back up and running!
What are Washing Machine Inlet Valves?
The inlet valves connected to your washing machine provide your machine with water during the washing cycle. These valves can vary in size and appearance, depending on your make and model. So, if you need to replace them, make sure to check out our wide-range of OEM parts!
Where are the Inlet Valves Located?
They’re located at the back of the machine, usually in hot and cold variants. If you need help locating them, please refer to the 3D diagram images below for your washing machine type, or follow the water hoses from the house directly to the inlet valves themselves.
General Location of the Inlet Valves in a Front Load Washer
General Location of the Inlet Valves in a Top Load Washer
How do I Clean my Inlet Valves' Filter Screens?
Many times, inlet valve filters can get buildups that hinder normal waterflow. Make sure to disconnect your power and your water supply before detaching anything from your appliance. Warning: Be careful not allow any material inside the valve of the washing machine, as the valve cannot fully close if any debris is inside and this can potentially cause a flood if it is not turned off.
- After removing the water supply to the inlet valves, depending on the model, there should be filters within the inlet valve housing that can simply be removed by pulling on their plastic tabs. Pliers may be necessary.
- When re-inserting the new filters, make sure any color-coded filters are placed in the correct valves.
How to Access, Remove, and Inspect Inlet Valves
To first locate your inlet valve(s), follow the water supply lines from your house to where they connect to the washer. That point of connection is where the valve(s) are located. Make sure to disconnect your power and your water supply before detaching anything from your appliance.
Top-Load Washing Machines Only: You may need to remove the top-housing to access the valves, but we recommend that you follow your water valve to the placement of your inlet valves throughout the machine, since different machines may not have the same placement as others.
- Unscrew the valve’s housing from the frame of the appliance.
- Disconnect any wire connectors from the inlet valve power terminals.
- Loosen and remove any clamps connected to any internal hoses. This is easiest done with a set of pliers.
- Remove any clamp locks, and then you can safely remove any remaining hoses from the valves.
How to Test Washer Inlet Valves
Usually in cases where your machine is not getting enough water, it’s due to a plugged or clogged valve, meaning that you have to clean the pre-existing filter in the valves or replace it altogether. So, if your machine isn’t drawing enough water, this is most likely the case. If it’s something internal to the valves, they need to be replaced.
How to Install New Inlet Valves
- When reconnecting this housing, make certain that the hoses going into the valves are fully-seated and that rubber washers are in good condition.
- Place any clamp locks on the valves and then safely reassemble the valves.
- Reconnect any internal hoses and tighten any clamps. This is typically done with a set of pliers.
- Connect any wire connectors to the inlet valve power terminals.
- Screw the valve’s housing back into the frame of the appliance. Your repair is now complete!
Next: Troubleshooting the Control Board
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