A Complete Guide to Washing Machine Valves: Types & Roles

The washing machine valves control the flow of water in the appliance and their role is crucial for the smooth running of the appliance. These valves control the input of water into the machine, allowing it to get filled properly during wash and rinse cycles. Proper functioning of them is necessary for the washing machine to run efficiently and optimally. For both homeowners and technicians.

Washing Machine Valves Types and Their Roles

The washing machine is made up of a variety of different types of valves that perform a specific function to operate the appliance smoothly. Here’s an overview of the various washing machine valves and their roles:

Washing machine water valve

• A critical component that is utilized during wash and rinse cycles is the washing machine water valve that regulates the amount of water that is taken into the washing machine. When the washing machine’s control system sends the correct signal to open this valve, water flows in; when there are enough signals to shut it, then it closes to ensure usage of the right amount of water for each load.

Washing machine water inlet valve

• In common with the standard water valve, the water inlet valve is the same but precisely controls both hot and cold water flowing into the washing machine. It usually has two inlets—one for hot water and one for cold water, so the machine can mix the two as necessary for different washing cycles (for example, hot washes for whites, and cold washes for colors). 

Solenoid valve for washing machine

• The washing machine is controlled by the flow of water into it using an electromagnetic mechanism in the solenoid valve. The solenoid creates a magnetic field, which when electric current is applied, tightens the valve and lets the water enter the machine. These valves are a part of the larger water inlet valve assembly and are the operational component that responds to control signals from the washing machine.

Washing machine drain valve

• It allows wastewater to escape from the washing machine after any wash cycle. When the washing cycle is finished, the drain valve opens, draining the water out of the drum into the household drainage system. Having a malfunctioning drain valve can cause leaks or water remaining in the drum while the washing machine fails to perform properly.

Washing machine tap valve

• The main shut off point for the water supply to the washing machine is the tap valve. It allows users to stop the water flow for maintenance or repairs, without having to turn off the main water supply to the entire home. This valve is essential for easy maintenance routines in order to avoid water damage during repairs.

Washing machine hose connector valve

• The hose connector valve is used to connect the water supply hoses to a washing machine. It’s there to ensure the hoses are secured correctly and there is no way to have a leak that causes water damage to your laundry area. Connecting the hose at the hose connector valve ensures a functional and leak-free environment.

Essential Components: Faucet Valve and Washing Machine Valve Box

Washing machine valve box: The washing machine valve box is a vital part, it’s used to protect the washing machine valves that connect water straight into the washing machine. This compact unit is typically installed behind the wall where the washing machine is installed, giving the interface for managing the many different plumbing connections required for the appliance a neat look. Shut-off valves in the valve box allow homeowners to easily control the water supply to the washing machine without having to turn off the main water supply to the home. 

Washing machine faucet valve: The washing machine plumbing system includes a critical part, the faucet valve, which connects the machine to the household water supply. Its number one job is to help the washing machine fill designated amounts of hot and cold water in the proper order for each wash cycle. The other end of the pipe is a faucet valve often with separate valves for hot and cold water so that users can dial in water temperature as their laundry requires. 

Common Issues with Washing Machine Valves

Easiest way to drain your washing machine with our step-by-step guide

How to Change a Washing Machine Valve

Gather Tools and Materials Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials. 

• Turn off the power to the washing machine at the circuit breaker Disconnect the Power and Water Supply. Turn the valves at the wall behind the machine to shut off the water supply. Unscrew the hoses off the washing machine with an adjustable wrench.
• Locate the valves connected to the washing machine Remove the Faulty Valve They are usually installed directly on the machine or wall mounted. Hold the valves with screws and then remove them with a screwdriver. Just be prepared some water will spill out, so keep a bucket or towel handy to capture any extra water.
• Carefully disconnect the Old Valve from the water supply lines. How it is installed will determine if it is unscrewed from the pipe or cut out.

How to Install a New Washing Machine Water Valve

• Take the new valve and install it in the water supply pipes. Then make sure it sits snug and orientated the right way (if told on the valve, check the flow direction). Should this be applicable, screw the valve in place. Tighten connections with the adjustable wrench, but don’t over-tighten them as this will damage the fittings.
• After installing the new valve reconnect the washing machine hoses to the new valves located on the cold water line to the washing machine. The hot water hose goes to the hot water valve and the cold to the cold. Securely tighten the hose connections but not overly tight
• Slowly turn on the water supply from the wall valves – letting the water slowly fill the inches of water that make up our lines. As you do this check for any leaks around the connections.

Preventative Maintenance of Washing Machine Valves

Preventative maintenance of your washing machine's water supply and inlet valves can help your washing machine stay in good shape, stop leaks, and run efficiently for many more years.

Checking the washing machine water supply valve regularly

• It is also important to have regular inspections of the washing machine water supply valve to look for wear, corrosion, or leaks.
• Search for drips, rust, or evidence of water pooling around the valve area. Bugs show up before bigger leaks and may prevent a lot more damage and expensive repairs.
• Make sure that the valve is opened and shut smoothly without resistance. If you see some stiffness or if you cannot turn the handle, the valve may be failing, and need to be replaced.

Cleaning the washing machine water inlet valve filter

• The water inlet valve filter can become clogged over time due to accumulating sediment and debris that can restrict water flow into the washing machine.
• Rinse the filter screen out of the water inlet valve back periodically and under running water to remove buildup.
• Having a clean filter means your wash water will flow best, resulting in better wash performance and less risk of clogs, which can cause filling problems in your machine.

Lubricating the washing machine tap valve and faucet valve

• The tap and faucet valves must be lubricated to maintain functionality. To do so, coat the threads and moving parts of the valves with a proper plumber's grease or liquid silicone lubricant.
• It serves to prevent corrosion and assures the valves operate smoothly, without sticking or leaking.
• Don’t over-lubricate either, as too much grease can attract dirt and cause problems, rather than solve them. Usually a thin even coat is sufficient.

Discover solutions to the 10 most common washing machine problems 

There are main types of valves, including water inlet valves, drain valves, and pressure relief valves, each of them has its function which is necessary for the proper performance. These valves are important to keep – if you fail to do so, you run the risk of leaks, improper filling, or leaking of water out of the machine. Regular inspection and maintenance will help to detect wear and tear before they become a major problem thus saving your machine from costly repairs and increasing the machine’s performance. HnKParts is your primary source for all your home appliance needs. We offer a wide selection of washing machine parts available online. This collection features motors, hoses, agitators, timers, and much more.

FAQs

What is the role of a water inlet valve in a washing machine?

The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the washing machine, allowing the appropriate amount to enter during different cycles.

What does a washing machine drain valve do?

The drain valve manages the release of wastewater from the washing machine, ensuring it drains properly after each cycle.

How does a mixing valve function in a washing machine?

The mixing valve regulates water temperature by blending hot and cold water to reach the desired setting for each wash cycle.