Valve problems can be found on appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers. In washing machines, problems are generally very easy to correct since the valves are simple in design. There are a few failure categories:

1. Foreign objects in the inlet screen can stop water flow or slow down to a point requiring a repair. Upon washer installation, always put screen washers in the fill hoses, if not already equipped. Flush the water supply line to prevent debris from being stuck in screens. Be careful removing the screens, as any dirt that gets into the valve may cause leaks. Dirt or mineral build-up found in the valve is usually the result of not having a screen hose washer in the water supply hoses.

2. Low water pressure may also cause the valve to leak. I see this often with refrigerators but can happen in washers and dishwashers as well. Having the correct water pressure will ensure proper valve open and closure.

3. The diaphragm inside the valve may get old and deteriorate. Dirt can clog the equalizing holes. Both will cause the valve to leak.

4. Electrical failure of the valve solenoid coils will cause the valve to stay in the open or closed state and halt water flow.

Aging takes its toll on many valves. The rubber seals become cracked and leakage can ruin a wood or vinyl floor. You can check the valve solenoid functionality by using an extension cord. Apply full AC power across the contacts to be sure the solenoid retracts and water flow is regulated. If the valve solenoid does not retract, or if an objectionable sound is apparent, the solenoid should be replaced.

Mixing Valves: If the water is too hot or too cold, it may be a case of unequal pressure with hot and cold-water plumbing of greatly different size. Lime depositions and other restrictions in the plumbing may cause a volume or pressure differential. Sometimes a volume or pressure of either hot or cold supply will vary greatly. In this condition, the warm water may be hotter or colder than what is considered normal. If the condition is noticeable to the customer, the plumbing must be corrected to equalize the volume and pressure. In cases where the volume and pressure are equal and the temperature of the warm water is too hot or too cold, the water supplied may be of a temperature, which will not mix properly.

In any case, when water pressure is checked, a flow gauge can be used. The faucet in the system in addition to the one being checked should be opened, otherwise only static pressure will register. Rust sand or mineral deposition on the diaphragm inside the valve will affect the system. Many times, we will see a case where the water is switched on whether the washer is operating or not. This condition can be corrected by replacing the affected valve. It is not cost-effective to attempt a repair on the valve.

In cases where coarse material in the water restricts the screens in either the valve or the faucet end of the hose, water flow will either be reduced or stopped, affecting the warm water temperature or the total cycle time of the washer. All the screens should be inspected and either cleaned or replaced before any repair is considered.

Rich is the co-owner of Western Appliance Repair of Boise. Western Appliance Repair

Rich is the co-owner of Western Appliance Repair of Boise http://www.westernappliancerepairboise.com

Author Bio: Rich is the co-owner of Western Appliance Repair of Boise. Western Appliance Repair

Category: Home Management
Keywords: appliance, washer, valve, repair