Proper Operation
Learn how your appliance is supposed to operate so you can determine if it is malfunctioning.


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Maytag Water Inlet Valve

Problem Discussion

Normally water connot enter the washer unless the inlet mixingvalve solenoids are energized (see Fill under Proper Operation).However, if foreign particles get past the filters, they can becomelodged in the tiny valve orifice and prevent the metal plunger stemfrom seating. Water will then flow through the valve whether thewasher power is on or off. Automatic washers are normally leftunattended. Water flow during a wash cycle can lodge the foreignparticle in the valve, causing the water to continue to flowthroughout all of the cycle functions and after the washer hasstopped. The tub will fill and then overflow. The only way to stop itis to turn off both water faucets connected to the inlet hoses.

Replacement Part

A Whirlpool water inlet valve (part no. 358276) will replace most Maytag valves; otherwise, order a genuine Maytag replacement by using your washer's model number.

Procedures for Replacing the Water Inlet Valve

  1. After the water is turned off and the floodwaters have subsided, either run the washer in a drain function or unplug the machine and bail it out.
  2. MAKE SURE THE WASHER IS UNPLUGGED.
  3. Verify that both water faucets have been turned off.
  4. Move the washer out from the wall about 20 inches.
  5. Remove the water hoses from the back of the washer
  6. Remove the two 5/16" sheet metal screws securing the water inlet mixing valve (the screws are near the hose connections on the back of the washer).
  7. Remove the two screws down at the bottom of the front access panel. Swing the panel out from the bottom until the two clips at the top release it. Set it aside.
  8. Use a 3/8 inch socket to remove the two big sheet metal screws in the upper left and right hand corner that hold the washer top down on the side panels.
  9. If you have a bleach dispensor, unclamp the hose so that you can raise the top of the washer.
  10. Tip the top back against the wall and locate the water inlet valve down in the left, upper rear corner.
  11. Open the clamp on the rubber hose and slide it down the hose a couple of inches. Pull the hose off the old valve and put it on the new one. Replace the clamp.
  12. Move the wires from the old valve to the new valve.
  13. Remount the new valve using 5/16" sheet metal screws. Replace the hoses.
  14. Lower the lid and replace the big sheet metal screws holding the top down. Replace the front panel and check for proper operation.