How To Remove And Replace A Washing Machine's Water Inlet Spout

Posted on: 16 May 2016

The water inlet spout on a washing machine is the access route for the water that goes into the machine's basin to wash your clothes. The spout, which is attached to a hose that is then attached to your home's main water supply, works to make sure the machine has water when it needs some but cuts off the water when no longer needed. A malfunctioning water inlet spout can lead to overly dry loads or excessive water that can't be corrected with the machine's normal agitation cycles. 

Removing and replacing the water inlet spout on a washing machine isn't hard if you have some time and arm strength or an assistant. 

Things You Need:

  • Phillips-head screwdriver
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Lifting assistant, if needed
  • Pliers
  • New spout hose, if needed
  • New water inlet valve

Step 1: Remove the Washing Machine Cabinet

Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet and scoot the machine out slightly from the wall and dryer, if needed for working on the front of the washing machine.

Remove the connectors holding the control panel – the front panel with the control knobs – onto the washing machine body. The connectors are normally screws found on the bottom corners of the control panel. Set the screws aside then swing the panel up until it snaps into place out of your way.

Locate the plug-shaped wire connector that connects the bundle of control panel wires to the washing machine. Unhook that plug and leave the plug and wires hanging in place. Slip the end of a flat-head screwdriver under the metal spring clips on each side of the control panel. Pry up the clips to unfasten the clips and loosen the machine's cabinet from the panel and the tub.  

Stand in front of the machine cabinet and pull up and out on the cabinet to remove it from its bottom track. Remove the cabinet from the machine and set the cabinet aside out of the way.

Step 2: Remove and Replace the Water Inlet Spout

Look at the tub and locate the water inlet spout and its attached hose. Use pliers to loosen the clamp holding the hose onto the spout. Pull the hose off the spout and let the hose dangle in place, if the hose isn't damaged. If you're replacing the hose, too, unhook the other end of the hose from the machine and then discard the old hose.

Press the tabs on each side of the water inlet spout to unfasten the spout. Pull up on the spout to remove and discard the old spout.

Position the new water inlet spout so that its tabs are lined up properly with the fasteners on the machine. Press the spout into place until the tabs snap into place. Put the clamp and hose end into the spout and use pliers to connect the hose. If you installed a new hose, make sure the other end is securely connected, as well.

Step 3: Reassemble the Washing Machine

Slide the machine cabinet back towards the machine. Lift up on the cabinet and position its bottom edges onto the track then slide the cabinet backwards until it meets up with the control panel. Use an assistant if you need help lifting and sliding.

Plug the wire connector back into the top of the washing machine. Press firmly onto the spring clips to snap those fasteners back into place. Swing the control panel back down and reattach the fasteners.

Plug the washing machine's cord back into the electrical socket. Conduct a test load to see if the problem has corrected. Still have problems? Call in an appliance repair company (click here to learn more) for help.

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