Sometimes we face difficulties while using the washing machine. It usually happens when any part of the washer does not work properly, such as the drain or the water inlet valve. Clogging the inlet valves mainly causes problems in water flow. This is why we need to know how to clean the water inlet valve on the washing machine to solve these types of issues.
When we wash clothes in the washer, the small dust particles, sand, dirt, and some undissolved particles of washing powder, rust particles get mixed with water and when water flows outside of the washer, the small particles create sediments to the small parts of the washer that have direct contact with the water. That’s why you need to clean these parts at least once a year.
Cleaning the Water Inlet Valve on the Washer:
Once you remove the inlet valve from the washer, you will find the cleaning process is unexpectedly so easy and simple. I’ve divided the entire process into two categories to describe—
How to Detach the Water Inlet Valve:
- Unplug your washing machine from the power supply. It is better to drag the machine away from the wall so you can easily access the hoses. But, do not drag it too far, otherwise, the drain hose will be disconnected.
- Shut off the water valves that are attached to the wall. The hoses are attached to the backside of your washer, unscrew them using pliers. You can place a towel under the hose because water may come out as soon as you unscrew it.
- Turn the water supply off from the supply valves (both cold and hot water inlet) from the backside of the washer. You will need to turn the knobs clockwise. If your water supply contains a lot of iron or other minerals, you will notice sediment build up.
- Detach water supply hoses using a plier. The hoses are attached behind the washer and usually difficult to unscrew. This time you also need a towel or kibble to grab the water coming from the hoses.
- Now remove both the inlet screens using your fingers or needle-nose pliers. Now It’s time to clean the water inlets.
How to Clean the Water Inlet Valve:
To clean the valves, firstly you will need to soak them in a water-vinegar mixture for a few minutes. This will loosen the debris from the valves. After that, scrub them with a scrubber or brush, the residues will be removed easily. You can soak the valves in hot water instead of vinegar, or some soapy water also can do the job. I’ve seen some people use a mild cleanser, dishwasher, or even baking soda mixed with water to soak the water inlets, so you can use anything that works for you.
It should take only a few minutes to remove all the sediments and debris from the valves. After removing all the unwanted and excess from the valve, rinse them thoroughly with water and let them dry.
Now insert the water inlets back to the washer, attach the hoses and screw them tightly. Plug the washer to the outlet and run to test it without clothes. Make sure that there is no leak to the joint of the water supply hose and washer. If all the steps are done properly and you are satisfied with the performance of the washer, move it back to its previous position.
FAQ:
1.How can I test my washer inlet valve?
Answer: To test the inlet valve whether it is working or not, you will need to disconnect the hoses from the washer and place them into a kibble. Now turn the hoses on and confirm a good water pressure to clean the debris from the pipe. Examine the filter screens and inlet valve for any build up debris. That’s how you can test the washer inlet valve.
2.How can I fix my washer inlet valve?
Answer: You can easily fix your inlet valve by following some simple steps. Firstly, disconnect your washer from the water supply and power supply and check the valve solenoids and filter screens. If the valve is fixable, fix it, or replace it if needed.
3.How to clean the water pump filter of the washing machine?
Answer: Cleaning the pump filter is an easy task. You need to remove it from the washer and soak in hot water. The residues or clogged substances will be loosed. If the pump filter is attached to the washer, you can clean it using a brush. Also, some are disposable, so in that case, you should replace them.
Conclusion:
Cleaning the water inlet valve on the washing machine is usually a hassle-free task. You may feel it a little difficult to detach the valves from the machine, but the cleaning process will hardly need any effort.