Replacing a water inlet valve on washing machine

A washing machine's water inlet valve is a key part of the machine that helps to control the flow of water into the washer. If this valve is faulty, it can cause all sorts of problems with the washing machine, from poor performance to complete failure. In this article, we will discuss how to identify a faulty water inlet valve, how to replace it, and some common problems that can occur with this part. We will also provide tips for keeping your washing machine running smoothly. Keep reading to find out more. 

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What Is The Water Inlet Valve On A Washing Machine And What does it do?

On most front-loading washers, the water inlet valve is part of the cold water plumbing that brings cold water into the washing machine tub (the compartment for soiled clothing). This particular type of valve has four ports: one for incoming cold water, one for outgoing cold water to the water dispenser in the door of the washer, one for hot water from the heating element, and one for draining out any collected condensation.

In most top-loading washing machines with a center post agitator (rather than an impeller), this valve is usually found on the bottom of the machine. In these models, it usually has two ports: one that receives incoming cold water and one that carries out wastewater once it has gone through the washing machine drum (the compartment where clothing is agitated during cleaning).

How To Identify A Faulty Water Inlet Valve

If you notice any problems with your washing machine's performance or if there is severe leaking coming from under your machine, the first thing you should check is the inlet valve. If it doesn't open or close when it should or if your machine won't fill up with water, there's a good chance that you have a faulty water inlet valve and will need to replace it.

How Can I Tell If My Washing Machine's Water Inlet Valve Is faulty?

If your washing machine seems to be pumping out lower volumes of water than usual when filling up, or if your clothes aren't getting clean even though you're using enough detergent, it could mean that the water inlet valve isn't allowing enough cold water into the tub. In this case, you may need to replace the part. Conversely, if yours fills up with hot water but your clothes aren't getting clean, it could be a sign that the cold water isn't coming through properly. In this case, you may need to replace your water inlet valve.

How To Replace The Water Inlet Valve On A Washing Machine

Moving on in this DIY washer repair guide, here's how to change the part:

1. Before you start anything, be sure to unplug your washing machine from its power source and empty any laundry.
2. To access the part, first remove all of the hoses connected to it (the hose connecting it to the incoming cold water supply, the hose connecting it to the hot water supply, and any waste drain or condensation drainage). You can either disconnect these by hand or use some slip-joint pliers to get a better grip.
3. Next, remove the screws that hold on the lid of the machine's water inlet valve chamber (this will vary depending on your model).
4. Lift and remove this chamber cover to expose the part itself.
5. Release any clamps or connectors holding it in place and pull out the faulty water inlet valve from the washer tub.
6. Place your new part in its place and reconnect all of the hoses you detached earlier, making sure to clamp them down firmly so there is no leakage when tested with water later on. 
7. Screw back into position, close up your washing machine's water inlet valve chamber cover, and then plug back into a power source to see if your part is working properly.

If you are still unsure if the problem has been fixed, it might then be time to call in a professional. 

Also remember that repairing your washing machine can be dangerous and should only be done if the machine is unplugged from its power source and all wiring has been checked by a qualified electrician to ensure there are no wires crossed. Failure to do so may result in electrocution or further damage to your washing machine and could end up costing you more money than the process is worth.

Cleaning Your Washing Machines For Longer Use

A washer's exterior requires cleaning because it can accumulate dust and oil. Mix one teaspoon of liquid dish soap with two cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on the laundry machine's body and work it into a lather using a microfiber cloth. Wipe off with a separate towel to remove residue left behind by any remaining soap suds.

You can also use distilled white vinegar or lemon juice mixed with baking soda to wash away soil deposits that have accumulated over time without affecting the paint finish on your front-loading washing machines' surface.

Cleaning a top-loading washing machine‘s exterior is simple, too. Just use the same vinegar-baking soda solution or dish soap-water mixture to wipe it down without creating too much of a fuss.

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Once you're done with your washing machine's exterior, turn your attention to its interior.

The best way to clean this part is using hot water and bleach to kill bacteria that grow over time. Mix five teaspoons of bleach with one gallon of warm water in a bucket then pour into the washer's detergent dispenser before running an empty load if you have a front-loading model or preparing a regular cycle without any clothes inside if you want to clean its top-loading counterpart. Afterward, just run plain water through the machine to rinse away any bleach or bacteria left behind.        

Final Thoughts On Repairing Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve

In conclusion, repairing the washing machine's water inlet valve is not an easy task. The repair you can do depends on the type of washer you have at home. Most problems occur due to broken parts which need to be replaced if they break down. There may also be problems with your water inlet valve which needs to be checked.

Your machine will release rusty water when there is a leak in the inlet valve or you need to replace it when it fails and starts leaking water, among other things. But cleaning your washing machine keeps it running for longer without much hassle. Repairing any part of your laundry equipment requires experience and reliable information about the problem at hand so that one does not end up choosing the wrong part or using incorrect installation procedures.

Can I replace water inlet valve myself?

How do I know if my washer water inlet valve is bad?

How much does it cost to replace a water inlet valve?