What is the water inlet of a washing machine?

Author: Garrett Conroy  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 24, 2025

The inlet valve is an important part of your washing machine, as it controls how much water goes into the appliance during a wash cycle. There are two types of inlet valve: a hot water valve and a cold water valve (however, in most modern washing machines, there may be only a cold valve fitted).

Where is the water inlet valve on a washing machine?

It will be at the back of the washer, and it will have water hoses hooked up to the back of it.

How to fix faulty water inlet valve washing machine?

We need to push the side lug inwards and twist the valve 90 degrees. We can now replace the faulty valve with a new vavle. Fit the new valve in to the machine, fit the inlet hoses, re-connect the electrical wires and re-fit the lid. And that's how to replace the water inlet valve on a washing machine or washer dryer.

What causes water inlet valve failure?

One of the most common problems is restricted water flow due to debris clogging the inlet port. But, sometimes, the problem is that the rubber seal is cracked or breaking, or the valves no longer line up correctly.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

How to connect your Washing Machine drain hose

Can a water inlet valve leak washing machine?

A damaged or defective inlet valve can cause water to leak out from the back of your washer. It may be that the inlet valve is damaged or is experiencing an electrical failure.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

What is the water inlet on a washing machine?

The inlet valve is an important part of your washing machine, as it controls how much water goes into the appliance during a wash cycle. There are two types of inlet valve: a hot water valve and a cold water valve (however, in most modern washing machines, there may be only a cold valve fitted).

What is the purpose of the inlet valve?

The purpose of an inlet valve in an internal combustion engine is to admit air/fuel mixture into the combustion chamber at a pre-determined time for compression and combustion during the induction cycle of the engine.

What does water inlet malfunction mean?

Faulty or blocked water inlet valve

As such, a faulty water inlet valve affects your wash cycle and prevents the dishwasher from supplying enough water to get your dishes washed. A few options you can explore include: Test the water inlet valve for continuity using a multimeter.

How long do washing machine inlet hoses last?

Regardless of their condition, washing machine hoses should be replaced about every 5 years to prevent a flooding emergency. Standard washing machine hoses are made of black rubber. Unfortunately, these hoses only last a few years and will eventually fail, causing one big mess and costly water damage.

What would cause a washer to leak water underneath?

A leaking washing machine is a common issue caused by factors like faulty drain pumps, damaged seals, or clogged hoses. To fix it, first, turn off the machine and inspect these components for wear or damage. Tighten or replace parts as needed. If the issue persists, professional repairs may be necessary.

What brand washing machine has the least repairs?

LG has consistently emerged as the best washer brand, often vying for the top spot with Speed Queen in Consumer Reports. This reputation cements LG's status as one of the best brand washers. A key factor in LG's popularity is its impressively low repair rates, making it a reliable choice in the appliance market.

How many years should a washing machine last?

Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.

Is it cheaper to buy a new washer or fix it?

If a washer no longer performs effectively or repair costs exceed half its value, a replacement can be more economical. Frequently recurring issues indicate underlying problems that are likely to persist and can lead to ongoing repair expenses.

What does wash water inlet mean?

An inlet valve on a washing machine is the electronically operated solenoid valve that allows water into the washing tub from building plumbing.

How do I know if my washing machine drain hose is clogged?

If there is standing water in the washer tub following the final spin cycle, or there is water leaking from the bottom of the washer cabinet, the washer's drain pump or drain hose could be clogged or broken and preventing the water from being emptied from the appliance into a laundry tub or standpipe.

How do you clean a water inlet valve on a washing machine?

Remove the hoses and use a brush or toothpick etc to try to remove the debris. Keep a bucket under the valve to catch as much water as possible and you can use the fill hoses to flush the filters.

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