How to Fix Dishwasher Inlet Valves on a Maytag

Safety Precautions

• The first step in repairing your Maytag dishwasher is turning off the appliance's power supply. Most dishwashers are hard-wired to your home's electrical system and must be turned off at your home's service panel. It is also imperative that you turn off the water supply valve that provides the dishwasher's water supply. The valve is often located below your kitchen sink, and the handle must be turned clockwise to turn off.

New Vs. Old

• New Maytag dishwashers utilize a new-style water supply valve, which uses a rubber washer, rather than plumber's tape to form a water tight seal. Old-style water inlet valves are identified by a brass elbow, which connects the water supply line to the water inlet valve. If the water supply line connects directly to the water supply valve, your dishwasher has a new-style water inlet valve.

Accessing the Water Inlet Valve

• The water inlet valve is located below the dishwasher, behind the lower kick panel. On some Maytag dishwashers there are two lower kick panels -- however, on most models there is only one. To remove the panel, remove the screws securing it in place, then pull the panel or panels away from the dishwasher and set them aside.

Replacing the Water Inlet Valve

• The first step in the replacement procedure is removing the water supply line from the valve or brass elbow using pliers. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the brass elbow if one is installed, and then remove the mounting screws securing the inlet valve to the dishwasher's frame. Remove the wire connectors, and then remove the water hose on the valve by squeezing the clamp with pliers and pulling the hose off of the valve. Connect the hose and wire connectors to the new inlet valve, and then secure the valve to the dishwasher. Wrap the end of the new brass elbow that inserts into the valve with plumber's tape and then install the elbow, if applicable. If installing a new-style inlet valve, insert the rubber washer into the end of the water supply line. Secure the water supply line to the inlet valve to complete the installation of the valve.