How to replace water inlet valve W11220230 on a Whirlpool / KitchenAid / Maytag washer

Is your washing machine refusing to fill up with water or leaking around the valve? You might be dealing with a faulty water inlet valve, a common but easily fixable issue. Dive into our step-by-step video tutorial below and say goodbye to inconvenient wash day mishaps without the need for a costly technician visit!

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

If your Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag washing machine isn’t filling up with water or leaks from the valve area, you probably need to replace the water inlet valve. Thankfully, this is a fairly easy DIY repair that you can complete at home – without a technician!

Let’s walk through the entire process of swapping out the old inlet valve for a new one in your Whirlpool, Maytag or KitchenAid washing machine.

You can find a replacement water inlet valve here. If you need other replacement parts for your washer, 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.

Watch the full repair here!

Why would the water inlet valve need to be replaced?

The water inlet valve controls the flow of both hot and cold water into the washer during the fill cycle. This valve contains solenoids that open when voltage is applied, which lets water flow through the valve’s inlet ports. The main control board energizes the solenoids so water can enter the tub.

If the unit has a dispenser housing, the inlet valve sends water through the housing so it can dispense liquid detergent, bleach, and fabric softener during the wash cycle.

If your washer isn’t filling with water, leaks from the valve, doesn’t dispense soap or doesn’t rinse out detergent well enough, then you may need to replace the water inlet valve.

What you need

• New water inlet valve (make sure it’s compatible with your specific washer model before installing)
• 1/4-inch nut driver
• Putty knife
• Flathead screwdriver

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.

Read more: Why It’s Best to Choose OEM Over Aftermarket Parts for Appliance Repairs

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 a faulty water inlet valve in your Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag washer.

1. Unplug the washer from the power outlet.
2. Turn off the water supply to the washer.
3. Remove the rear panel by taking out 5 screws with a 1/4-inch nut driver.
4. Open the spring clips on either side of the control panel by using a putty knife. Lift the panel up and off.
5. Disconnect the control panel plug by pressing the tab and pulling it out.
6. Remove the control panel by sliding it forward and off.
7. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the 3 plugs from the old water inlet valve.
8. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the 2 screws holding the valve. Lift the old valve up and turn it over.
9. Disconnect the harness plug by pressing the tab and pulling it out.
10. Use pliers to remove the retainer clip from the harness. Free the harness from its hook.
11. Install the new valve by connecting the harness and securing it with the retainer clip.
12. Insert the 3 ports into the openings and secure them with the 2 screws.
13. Reconnect the 3 plugs to the new valve.
14. Reinstall the control panel and connect its plug.
15. Secure the control panel with the spring clips.
16. Replace the rear panel and secure it with the 5 screws.
17. Replace the cover plate and secure it with 1 screw.
18. Plug the washer back in and turn the water supply back on.
19. Run a short test cycle to make sure the new water inlet valve is working correctly.

Read more: 6 Easy Ways to Perk Up Your Laundry Room

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the water inlet valve in your Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag washer.

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.

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