How to Replace the Water Inlet Valve on a Whirlpool Refrigerator

On a Whirlpool refrigerator, the water inlet valve WPW10312696 is responsible for controlling the flow of water into the ice maker and water dispenser, allowing your refrigerator to produce ice and dispense chilled water. Common signs that indicate the need for replacement include a lack of ice production, a water leak, or no water coming from the dispenser. Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your refrigerator back in working order. So, let’s get started!

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, 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 information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

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 attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• 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.

Tools and materials needed

• Replacement part (make sure it’s compatible with your model before installing)
• Flathead screwdriver

Replacement steps

Step 1: Disassembly and removal

1. Start by opening both French doors of the refrigerator to access the interior.
2. Lift it up and release the rear hooks of the top shelf.
3. Remove the shelf by detaching it from any front hooks.
4. Continue this process for all remaining shelves.
5. Locate the water filter compartment.
6. Push the tab forward to open the compartment.
7. Remove the water filter by pulling it down.
8. Place a towel underneath the water filter opening to catch any water that may spill out.
9. Turn the water filter counterclockwise to detach it from the compartment.
10. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to press the tabs on either side of the filter frame.
11. Pull down to remove the frame.
12. Use the flat-blade screwdriver to open the four tabs securing the cover panel.
13. Press down on the lower tabs and remove the panel.
14. Locate the clips securing the water valve at the top and bottom.
15. Use the flat-blade screwdriver to gently bend and pull the clips to free the valve.
16. Disconnect the two water lines by prying them out with the screwdriver.
17. Remove the plug from the top of the valve.
18. Disconnect the plug at the bottom.
19. For each water line, press down on the locking collar and pull the tube out.
20. Use the towel to catch any excess water.

Step 2: Installation and reassembly

1. Use the flat-blade screwdriver to open the clip on the cover box.
2. Lift the cover and plug in the new valve.
3. Slide the cover box back into place, ensuring it clicks into the latches.
4. Reconnect the water lines by pressing them into place.
5. Ensure they are secure.
6. Reattach the electrical plugs for both the top and bottom connections.
7. Open the filter cover and spread it apart to remove it from the hinges.
8. Attach the upper cover plate by aligning the hinges.
9. Place the filter door back on the hinges and push it in until it locks.
10. Align the bottom cover panel with the clips and press it in until it locks securely.
11. Remove the towel used to catch water.
12. Open the filter door and install the new water filter by pushing it in and rotating it clockwise until it stops.
13. Reinstall all shelves in reverse order of removal.
14. Close both French doors.
15. Plug the refrigerator back in.
16. Open the water dispenser and check for any leaks.

Additional information

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.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!