How to Replace Water Inlet Tubes

Refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines all have water inlet tubes that supply water from a water supply valve to the appliance. Often, the tubes are constructed of braided steel or rubber. After regular use, it is good practice to replace your inlet tubes, especially rubber tubes, to prevent a leak or flood due to a ruptured inlet tube. Before removing the inlet tube from either the appliance or from the valve, be sure to turn off the valve to stop water-flow through the tube.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Towels

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply valve supplying water to the appliance. The water supply valve is often located on the wall behind your washing machine and refrigerator, or under the sink, beside your dishwasher. To turn off, turn the knob clockwise until tight.

2. Loosen the connector at the base of the water supply valve on the end of the inlet tube using an adjustable wrench. Unthread the connector by hand and remove the tube from the water supply valve. Place a towel below the tube to catch any water remaining in the lines. If replacing the water inlet tubes that supply water to your washing machine, repeat this step for both tubes.

3. Remove the bottom plate of your dishwasher if replacing the dishwasher water supply tube. To remove the plate, remove the screws on the sides of the plate and pull the plate away from the appliance.

4. Remove the water inlet tube from the rear of the appliance by loosening the connector with an adjustable wrench and then untheading. If replacing the water supply tube on your dishwasher, the tube is located under the appliance, on the left side.

5. Remove the old tubes and discard. For a dishwasher, pull the water inlet tube from the cabinet under the sink to remove.

6. Feed the new dishwasher water supply tube through the opening in the side of the cabinet and then thread it to the water inlet valve.

7. Connect the water supply tube to the water inlet valve or valves on the appliance. Thread the connector onto the valve and then tighten with an adjustable wrench.

8. Connect the water supply tube to the water supply valve or valves behind or beside the appliance. Thread the connector onto the valve and then tighten with an adjustable wrench.

9. Turn the water supply valve counterclockwise and examine the lines for leaks.

10. Replace the bottom panel of the dishwasher, if applicable.

References

• GE: PTWN8055MMS Installation Instructions
• Maytag: MDB8959AWS Installation Instructions
• Whirlpool: GC5SHAXVS Installation Instructions