The inlet valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher. If it is not functioning properly, your dishwasher may not fill with water or may fill too slowly. Testing the inlet valve can help determine if it needs to be replaced.
Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Important Safety Notice: Before testing the inlet valve, unplug the dishwasher or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
- Multimeter
- Needle-nose pliers
- Safety gloves
- Labels or masking tape (for labeling wires)
Steps to Test the Inlet Valve
Step 1: Safety First
- Turn Off Power: Ensure that the dishwasher is unplugged or the circuit breaker is turned off to prevent any electrical shock.
- Turn Off Water Supply: Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Step 2: Access the Inlet Valve
- Remove the Lower Panel: The inlet valve is located behind the lower access panel of the dishwasher. This panel is usually held in place with two screws either above or below the panel.
- Open the Door: Open the dishwasher door to access the screws holding the lower panel.
- Remove the Screws: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. You may need to close the door to fully remove the panel.
- Locate the Inlet Valve: The inlet valve is typically located at the bottom left or right side of the dishwasher.
Step 3: Disconnect the Wires
- Label the Wires: The inlet valve will have wires connected to it. Use labels or masking tape to mark the wires and their corresponding terminals for proper reconnection later.
- Remove Connectors: Firmly pull the connectors off the terminals. Do not pull on the wires. You may need to use needle-nose pliers to remove the connectors.
Step 4: Test for Continuity
- Set the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (Ω) to test for continuity.
- Test the Terminals: Touch one probe to each terminal of the inlet valve.
- Normal Reading: A functioning inlet valve will show continuity (a low resistance reading). The exact reading will depend on the manufacturer and model, but it should typically be between 500-1500 ohms.
- Faulty Inlet Valve: If the multimeter shows no continuity (infinite resistance), the inlet valve is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Steps to Replace the Inlet Valve (if necessary)
Step 5: Replace the Inlet Valve
- Disconnect the Water Supply Line: Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the inlet valve.
- Remove the Old Valve: Unscrew the mounting screws that hold the inlet valve in place and carefully remove it from the dishwasher.
- Install the New Valve: Position the new inlet valve in place and secure it with mounting screws. Reconnect the water supply line to the new inlet valve.
Step 6: Reconnect the Wires
- Reconnect the Wires: Attach the wires to the correct terminals of the new inlet valve, ensuring the connections match the labels or markings you made earlier.
Step 7: Reassemble the Dishwasher
- Reattach the Lower Panel: Replace the lower access panel by securing it with screws.
- Close the Door: Ensure everything is properly aligned and close the dishwasher door.
Step 8: Test the Dishwasher
- Restore Power and Water Supply: Turn the power and water supply back on.
- Run a Test Cycle: Run a short test cycle to ensure the dishwasher operates correctly and the new inlet valve functions properly.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to your dishwasher’s user manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Use Genuine Parts: If the inlet valve needs to be replaced, use genuine replacement parts for optimal performance and longevity.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any step or if the problem persists, consider seeking help from a professional technician.
By following these steps, you can effectively test and, if necessary, replace the inlet valve in your dishwasher, ensuring it operates correctly and efficiently. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help extend the lifespan of your appliance.
