How to Test and Replace a Whirlpool Front Load Washer Valve

Wondering if your Whirlpool front load washer valve is to blame for the recent hiccups? Find out how to spot the signs of a faulty valve and what to do next, no repair service required!

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool front load washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The testing and replacement information in this article is based on model WFW95HEXW and may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you need

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• T25 torx driver
• Channel lock pliers
• Multimeter

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to test and replace a Whirlpool front load washer’s valve

Step 1. Test the valve

1. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
2. Use a 1/4 inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the back of the washer’s top panel.
3. Slide the top panel off to access the valve.
4. Turn on the water supply and power the washer.
5. If the washer begins to overfill, unplug the power cord.
6. Observe the water flow. If the water continues to flow even after unplugging, the valve is faulty and needs replacement. If the water stops when unplugged, a different issue is likely causing the problem.

Step 2. Remove the faulty valve

1. Ensure the water supply is fully turned off.
2. Place a towel under the area to catch any remaining water.
3. Use channel lock pliers to disconnect the water supply hoses from the valve.
4. Disconnect the inlet hose by compressing the inlet hose clamp with pliers and sliding it back to release the hose.
5. Detach any wires connected to the valve.
6. Use a T25 Torx driver to remove the screw near the hot water inlet threads, freeing the valve from the frame.
7. Pull the valve out of the washer.

Step 3. Install the new valve

1. Position the new valve in the frame and secure it with the T25 screw.
2. Reconnect the inlet hose and water supply hoses to the valve.
3. Use the channel lock pliers to move the inlet hose retaining ring back into place, securing it to the valve.
4. Reconnect the wires to the valve.

Step 4. Reassemble the washer

1. Place the washer’s top panel back in position.
2. Push the panel forward, and use the 1/4 inch nut driver to reinstall the screws.
3. Plug the power cord back in, and the washer is ready for use.

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the valve in your Whirlpool front load washer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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