How to replace the inlet valve in your dishwasher
ID: 185599
Description: [youtubevideo|XFcRQE82X3c]If your dishwasher...
Steps:
- Pull the dishwasher power plug out of the wall outlet before you touch any internal parts.
- Turn off the water tap that feeds the appliance to prevent flooding.
- Read the manufacturer’s service instructions and warranty terms before continuing.
- Observe if water flows into the tub endlessly or if the machine shows a fill error and stays dry.
- Look for blinking lights or error codes that indicate the control board cannot close or open the valve.
- Verify the dishwasher has only one inlet path so that the single valve is the likely culprit.
- Inspect the inlet hose to determine whether you have a standard solenoid valve, a mechanical aqua‑stop hose, or a complete electronic aqua‑stop assembly.
- A basic valve is a single solenoid in one plastic housing with no outer sleeve.
- A mechanical aqua‑stop has an outer hose and a red window that turns red if the inner hose bursts.
- A complete aqua‑stop includes an external solenoid box and cannot be unscrewed at the machine end.
- Buy a replacement that matches your original valve style to maintain safety certification.
- Pull the dishwasher far enough forward to reach the point where the inlet hose enters the cabinet.
- Locate the solenoid valve mounted at that entry point inside the machine base.
- Remove any screw or twist‑lock that secures the valve to its bracket while supporting the plastic body.
- Open the spring clamp with pliers or a flat screwdriver and slide it away from the valve nipple.
- Wiggle the inlet hose off the valve while holding the fitting steady to avoid cracking it.
- Take a photo of the two wires before removal so they return to the correct terminals.
- Pull the spade connectors straight off the valve terminals.
- Rotate or slide the valve out of its mounting plate and lift it clear of the dishwasher.
- Seat the replacement valve into the mounting plate in the same orientation as the original.
- Push the water hose fully onto the valve nipple and return the clamp to its groove.
- Reconnect the two electrical terminals exactly as they were photographed.
- Disconnect the original full aqua‑stop hose and its plug‑in wiring harness from inside the cabinet.
- Feed the new hose along the same route and secure its electrical connector firmly.
- Ensure both solenoids sit correctly and all hose joints are hand‑tight.
- Return the inlet hose to its original routing and verify the clamp seats evenly.
- Fasten the valve bracket or screw so the component cannot move during operation.
- Open the water tap and inspect all joints for leaks.
- Plug the dishwasher back in and run a short fill cycle to confirm it takes in water properly and no leaks are visible.
- If you notice any drips, turn off the water and re-tighten the fittings.
- If the machine still fails to fill, recheck wiring polarity and valve orientation.
- As a safety measure, always close the water tap when leaving home for an extended period to prevent potential flooding.