The inlet valve is located around the back of the washing machine, and it’s function is to control the amount of water that goes into the machine, and at what times, during the wash cycle.
There are two types of inlet valve: a hot water valve and a cold water valve - but on most modern washing machines, only the cold water valve will be fitted.
As with all components in your washer dryer, the inlet valve could develop a fault that stops it performing its role in the washing process. A fault is most likely to happen during cold weather, as cold water inside the valve can freeze and expand causing a crack in the valve - which will lead to a leakage.
So if you’re noticing that there’s a leak coming from your washing machine, either at the back or underneath, and it’s definitely not coming from the door seal then the chances are you’ll need to replace the inlet valve.
With the help of eSpares you can soon be back to a fully working washing machine again in no time, so you can soon tackle the washing.
This video shows an example on how to remove or replace the part on a typical machine, some models may be different but the procedure should be similar
What You Will Need:
Step 1 - Switch Off Your Appliance
Safety First! Please ensure that you have disconnected the appliance from the mains before starting any repair.
Step 2 - Move The Appliance And Remove The Top Panel
To carry out this repair you will need to move the appliance into a large open space, on which you will have access to the back of the machine. Once in position you need to take off the top panel, which you do by removing the screws that are holding it in place.
Step 3 - Move The Dispenser Drawer Assembly
With the top panel removed you will just about be able to see the inlet valve situated below the dispenser drawer top, and it is being held in place by 3 screws - 2 in the dispenser drawer top, and 1 at the back of the machine.
You need to remove the screw situated at the back of the machine. Next up your task is to remove the screws in the dispenser drawer top - but this is not going to be as simple as the last screw you removed.
One of the screws holding the dispenser drawer top to the inlet valve is positioned underneath the chassis of the washing machine - so you need to move the whole dispenser drawer assembly forward a couple of inches to gain access to it.
To do this you need to remove the soap dispenser drawer, followed by removing the fascia (which is held in place by a couple of screws). Once the screws are removed, there will be some clips that need to be unclipped - you should then be able to put the drawer on top of the machine.
Move the whole dispenser assembly and inlet valve forward a couple of inches - so you now have access to the 2 screws that need to be removed. Lastly, you just need to snip the cable tie off
Step 4 - Separate The Inlet Valve From The Dispenser Assembly
Ok nearly there now....proceed to remove the pressure sensor, which will then allow you to separate the inlet valve and dispenser assembly from each other. You can now remove the whole dispenser assembly over to one side - though do just be careful not to damage the tub inlet hose. You now have space to work on the valve.
Step 5 - Replace The Inlet Valve
Before you remove the old valve, just make sure to take the seals off it (because they don’t come with the new valve) You will need to remove the hose by taking the clip off, and you will be able to pull the hose out.
Next up to do is to remove the connections - but before this we have an...
eSpares Top Tip: Take a photo of how they are currently, so that you know how to put them back into your new valve. You can then remove the old valve - and replace it with your new valve.
To fit the new valve you just need to basically repeat every single step you’ve just taken to remove the old one - but in reverse (starting with putting the connections into the new valve). And also not forgetting the seals too of course.
There you have it - you have successfully been able to replace the inlet valve all by yourself (well, with a little bit of help from us at eSpares of course). With your newly gained washing machine DIY skills, you can soon hopefully be back to continuing with the washing in your home.
Fancy Giving Your Washing Machine Some Loving Care & Attention?
Your washing machine no doubt works hard for you in getting your clothes nice and clean. If you want to show it some TLC, then it is a great idea to protect it from the build-up of limescale & detergent that can happen over time in your machine. Introducing the eSpares Limescale & Detergent Remover - where by using this you can help protect from this, as well as removing bad odours and bacteria build-up.
*Not suitable for top loading appliances
Need To Locate The Correct Sump Hose For Your Washing Machine?
Here at eSpares we have a generous selection of replacement Inlet Valves for you to select from - so you can soon be on your way to repairing it yourself.
If you need any advice regarding repairs to your appliances at home, eSpares provide many helpful advice articles in our advice centre.
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