How to replace the water inlet valve in a top-freezer refrigerator

This DIY repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for replacing the water inlet valve in a top-freezer refrigerator. The water inlet valve is at the back of the refrigerator near the bottom and controls water flow to the ice maker. A coil on the water valve opens to allow water to flow into the refrigerator and closes to stop the water flow. If the valve fails to open, water stops flowing to the refrigerator. If it fails to close, water continuously flows into the ice maker. Replace a failed water valve using the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

These instructions work for replacing the water inlet valve on Kenmore, Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, KitchenAid, Maytag, Amana, Frigidaire, Electrolux and Haier refrigerators.

Instructions

1. Shut off the power

Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

2. Disconnect the refrigerator water supply line

Close the water supply cut-off valve for the refrigerator.

Pull the refrigerator away from the wall.

Place a towel under the water valve assembly to catch water.

Loosen the compression nut on the supply water line until the water line is free.

3. Remove the rear compartment cover

Remove the screws from the rear compartment cover and then remove the cover.

4. Remove the water inlet valve

Remove the screws from the mounting bracket and pull the water inlet valve out.

Unplug the wire harness from the water inlet valve.

Disconnect the ice maker water supply line by pressing in the fitting collar and pulling the water line out of the valve outlet.

Tip: Some fittings may have a C-clip on the valve outlet collar. Remove the C-clip before pressing the collar in.

5. Install the new water inlet valve

Push the ice maker water supply line into the valve outlet fitting.

Reconnect the wire harness on the new water inlet valve.

Position the new water inlet valve in the cabinet and install the screws in the mounting bracket.

Tip: Push the ice maker water supply line as far as possible into the fitting. Tug on the water line to make sure it’s seated correctly. Reinstall the C-clip if present.

6. Reinstall the rear compartment cover

Position the rear compartment cover on the back of the refrigerator and reinstall the mounting screws.

7. Reconnect the refrigerator water supply line

Connect the water line onto the water inlet valve fitting and tighten the compression nut firmly. 

Open the water supply cut-off valve. 

If the fitting leaks, tighten the compression nut and check again.

8. Restore electrical power

Plug in the refrigerator and push the refrigerator back into place.