How to replace Whirlpool dryer water inlet valve W10815373

Is your Whirlpool dryer’s steam cycle not as steamy as it should be? A malfunctioning water inlet valve may be the culprit, but don’t sweat it—this fix is easier than you might think. Dive into our step-by-step guide and accompanying how-to video below, and you’ll have your dryer back in top shape in no time!

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

Replacing a faulty water valve on a Whirlpool dryer it is an easy DIY project that you can knock out in about an hour.

The water inlet valve sprays mist into the dryer drum as needed during the steam cycle. Over time, this valve can fail by not opening or closing or if it develops leaks.

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

Read more: How to clean & replace a Whirlpool dryer vent

What you need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flat-blade screwdriver
• 5/16-nut driver
• 1/4-inch nut driver
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Scissors
• Yellow Teflon tape
• New water inlet valve (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model before installing)

Read more: How to reverse the door swing on a Whirlpool dryer

Disclaimer: 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. 
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work. 
• 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 dryer.

Step 1: Remove the rear access panel

To access the inlet valve, you’ll need to remove the rear panel on the back of the dryer.

1. Turn off the dryer and unplug it from the outlet.
2. Turn off the water supply to the dryer.
3. If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply to the machine.
4. Disconnect the flexible metal vent tube.
5. Place a towel underneath to catch any lint or debris that may fall out.
6. Loosen the screw on the clamp with a Phillips screwdriver and pull the vent tube off the dryer exhaust pipe.
7. Use pliers to unscrew the threaded water inlet hose. Use the towel to catch any water drips.
8. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the single screw holding on the cover plate.
9. Slide the power cord out through the cutout hole.
10. Detach the ground wire from the green grounding screw. Save the screw to reattach the ground wire later.
11. Remove all the screws holding on the rear access panel itself by using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
12. Carefully lift off the panel to expose the inlet valve.

Step 2: Remove the old inlet valve

1. Use a flathead screwdriver to disconnect the two wires attached to the valve coil terminals.
2. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screw holding on the inlet valve’s mounting bracket.
3. Press the locking collar on the water inlet tube that’s connected to the valve while simultaneously pulling out the tube.
4. Remove the old inlet valve and discard it.

Step 3: Install the new inlet valve

1. Mount the new valve in the same spot as the old one by lining up the rear mounting hole.
2. Insert the screw to hold the bracket in place.
3. Press the water inlet tube firmly into the valve opening until it’s fully seated. You should feel the locking collar click into place.
4. Reconnect the two wires to the inlet valve coil terminals. Make sure they snap securely onto the pins.

Read more: Tips for Preventing Wrinkles in the Dryer: Goodbye Ironing!

Step 4: Replace the rear access panel & reassemble the dryer

1. Replace the rear access panel by inserting and tightening all the screws with the 1/4-inch nut driver.
2. Reconnect the ground wire and green screw.
3. Slide the power cord back through its slot.
4. Attach the threaded water inlet hose by hand tightening it first, then give it an extra 1/2 turn with pliers. Don’t over-tighten it.
5. Slide the vent tube back onto the exhaust pipe and tighten the clamp.
6. Replace the cover plate and remaining screw.

Final steps

1. Slowly open the gas supply valve. You can dab soapy water over it to check for any leaks at the connection point. If the water bubbles, there’s a leak that needs to be fixed.
2. Turn the water supply back on.
3. Plug the dryer back in.
4. Turn on the dryer and run a test cycle to make sure it’s working correctly.

Read more: Tips for Preventing Wrinkles in the Dryer: Goodbye Ironing!

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the water inlet valve in your Whirlpool dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over 2 million parts and most orders arrive in 2-3 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. We can also help you troubleshoot common dryer problems here.

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