How to replace a water inlet valve on a front-load washer

This step-by-step washer repair guide shows how to replace the water inlet valve assembly on a front-load washer. Replace the inlet water valve with a manufacturer-approved washer part if your washing machine doesn't fill or if it fills with water even when the washer is unplugged.

This procedure covers water inlet valve assembly replacement in Kenmore, LG, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, Maytag, Amana, Samsung and Bosch front-load washers.

We also have instructions for replacing the water inlet valve on a vertical modular top-load washer and replacing the water inlet valve on a direct-drive top-load washer.

Instructions

1. Shut off the electricity and water

Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Enlist an assistant to help pull the washer away from the wall.

Turn off the water supply valves for the washer. Wear work gloves.

2. Disconnect the fill hoses

Mark which fill hose goes to the hot connector and which goes to the cold before removing.

Using channel lock pliers, carefully loosen and remove both hoses.

Expect some water to pour out.

Tip: Wipe up water spills with a towel to prevent slipping.

3. Remove the top panel

Move the washer so can you can work behind it.

Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the 2 screws on the back of the washer that hold the top panel.

Pull the top panel toward the rear of the washer and lift it up and off.

4. Remove the water inlet valve assembly

Take a picture of the wiring connections or label them so you can reattach them correctly.

Carefully pull the wires from the water inlet valve assembly; use needle-nose pliers if needed.

Take care to not damage the connectors.

Take a digital picture of the hoses or label them so you can reattach them correctly.

Release the spring hose clamps and pull the hoses off the inlet water valve assembly.

Holding the inlet water valve assembly to keep it from dropping into the washer cabinet, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 2 mounting screws.

Remove the valve assembly.

5. Install the new water valve assembly

Position the new water inlet valve assembly, lining up the holes for the mounting screws.

Reinstall the mounting screws.

Avoid overtightening by turning the screws until they stop. Then give the screws one firm twist so they’re snug in place.

Using your photo or labels to determine placement, push each water line onto its correct connection.

Secure each line with its spring clamp. Using your photo or labels to determine placement, push each wire connector fully onto its connector spade.

6. Reinstall the top panel

Push the panel down and forward to seat it on the washer frame.

Reinstall the screws to secure the back panel. Avoid overtightening.

7. Reinstall the fill hoses

Thread the fill hoses onto the connections on the back of the washer, checking that hot and cold lines are in the correct place.

Tighten the connections firmly using channel lock pliers. Don't overtighten because that can crack the plastic in the valve.

8. Restore the water and power

Turn on the water supply valves and check for leaks at the wall and the washer. Tighten the connection if you find a slight leak. Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.

Return the washer to its original location.