How to replace the water inlet valve in a Whirlpool refrigerator

Is your Whirlpool refrigerator leaving you high and dry without ice or water? If a faulty water inlet valve is to blame, don’t fret! With our step-by-step guide and an easy-to-follow how-to video just below, you’ll have your fridge flowing smoothly again in no time.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

Replacing the water inlet valve on a Whirlpool refrigerator is a quick and easy repair that most homeowners can accomplish on their own. With some basic tools, it should take less than 30 minutes to remove the old valve and install the new one. 

By following the steps in this guide, you can restore water flow to your fridge. Let’s get started!

You can find a replacement water inlet valve here. If you need other replacement parts for your Whirlpool refrigerator, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Why replace the valve

The water inlet valve supplies water to the ice maker and water dispenser in your Whirlpool refrigerator. Over time, the valve can deteriorate or become damaged, which can prevent water from being dispensed and ice from being made. 

What you’ll need

• 1/4-inch nut driver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Towels
• Work gloves
• New water inlet valve

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

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. 
• 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.
• 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.

How to replace the water inlet valve

Follow these steps to change out the water inlet valve in your Whirlpool refrigerator.

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the refrigerator.
3. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the rear access panel. Start with the screw holding the ground wire. 
4. Lift the access panel out from the refrigerator.
5. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the plugs off the old water inlet valve and disconnect it.
6. Pull off the line cover that protects the water line tubes. 
7. Use the screwdriver to remove the screw holding the water line bracket. 
8. Place a towel underneath the water line tubes to catch any dripping water.
9. Press the locking collar on the water line tube and pull the tube out. 
10. Pull the water line tube out of the bracket. 
11. Remove the old water inlet valve by turning it over and pulling it out. 
12. Push the water line tube into the inlet on the new water valve.
13. Insert the new water inlet valve into place and push it in all the way. 
14. Insert the water line tube back into the bracket and pull any excess line out. 
15. Secure the water valve to the access panel bracket with the screw.  
16. Clip the line cover back over the water line and valve.
17. Connect the power plug for the new valve.
18. Install the rear access panel and secure it with the screws. 
19. Plug the refrigerator back in and turn on the water supply.
20. Let the refrigerator run for several hours and test it to make sure the new water inlet valve works correctly.

Watch the full repair here

More for you

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the water inlet valve on your Whirlpool refrigerator. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts 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.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!

Keep Reading:

How To Find Your Appliance’s Model Number

Top 5 Tips for Troubleshooting Appliance Problems

How To Safely Move Your Appliances