How to turn off washer water valve: a quick guide

Knowing how to turn off washer water valve connections is an essential skill for any homeowner. Whether you are preparing for routine maintenance, upgrading to an advanced model, or simply moving to a different home, controlling the water supply helps ensure a smooth process. Taking a few moments to understand your laundry room setup can provide peace of mind and help avoid unexpected messes. This helps you care for your appliances with confidence. By following a few simple steps, you can easily manage your washing machine's water flow and keep your laundry routine on track.

A woman filling her washer with clothing

What kind of water valves are there on a washing machine?

Washing machines have more than one valve that deals with water. Washing Machine shutoff valves (or water supply valves) are often connected to your water pipes before they lead into the washer. These connect your washer to the hot and cold water in your home. Washing machine water Inlet valves however, are usually connected inside your actual machine, and they control the flow of hot and cold water into your machine’s tub. They are usually only accessible by opening up the cabinet of your washing machine, which is best left to a professional.

Where is the water shutoff valve on a washing machine?

The washing machine water shutoff valves are part of your home’s plumbing and are generally on the wall behind, or slightly above your machine. You will usually see two distinct valves—sometimes they are color coded, one with a red handle for hot water and one with a blue handle for cold water. Sometimes they are also in a recessed box set within the drywall of your basement wall. These valves usually either have round handles or handles like levers.

Steps to turn off a washer water valve: Inlet vs. shutoff

Other than unplugging your machine, you can’t actually “shut off” a washer inlet valve, because it is an electrical part of your machine and is located inside the cabinet of your washing machine. If you are having issues with it, it’s best to let a professional help. However, by following a few steps, you can effectively halt the water flow to your machine by turning off the water supply valves/shutoff valves. Here are the essential steps to guide you through the process from start to finish.

A graphic of a washer and dryer plugged in

Step 1: Turn off and unplug the washer

Whether you’re installing a washing machine or working on your current model, awareness should always be your top priority when working with household appliances. Before touching any plumbing components, you must ensure the machine is completely powered off. Locate the power cord and unplug it from the electrical outlet.

A graphic of a washer pulled away from the wall with hookups behind it

Step 2: Locate the water supply/shutoff valves

Once the power is disconnected, your next task is to find the water supply/shutoff valves. As mentioned earlier, these are typically found on the wall behind the appliance. Depending on your laundry room's layout, the valves might be housed in a recessed plastic box in the wall. Identifying both the hot and cold water valves ensures you can completely isolate the machine from the home's water supply.

A graphic with the hookups on the wall with an arrow showing to turn clockwise

Step 3: Turn the valves clockwise

With the valves identified, you can now stop the water flow. If you have circular knobs, firmly grasp each valve handle and turn it clockwise until it stops. This action is similar to turning off a standard outdoor faucet. If you have a lever instead of a circular knob, turn the levers a quarter turn (90 degrees) so that they form a T (and are perpendicular with the hose). Do this for both the hot and cold water valves. By turning off the water supply, you cut off the flow of water to the washer so that little to no water leaks when the hoses are disconnected. Since the power is also off, this process also, effectively, “turns off” the water inlet valve (inside the machine) as well.

A graphic with the washer pulled away from the wall with no hoses attached

Step 4: Disconnect the hoses (if necessary)

If you are moving the appliance or performing specific maintenance, you may need to remove the hoses. Start by placing a bucket or towel beneath the connections to catch any residual water before carefully loosening the hose connections.

Properly managing these connections is a key part of the process. Whether you are disconnecting for a move or connecting during a setup, handling the hoses with care helps maintain the integrity of your plumbing. Always double-check that the connections are secure when reattaching them.

What if the valve is stuck?

Over time, water valves can become stiff or difficult to turn, especially if they have not been used in a while. This is also true for water shutoff valves. If you encounter a stuck valve, avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the plumbing. Before you begin, turn off your washing machine using the controls and unplug the power cord from the outlet.

It is often wise to also turn off the main water supply to the house to avoid accidental leaks. Then, try spraying the valves with a plumbing-safe lubricating oil to loosen them. If you still can’t get the valve unstuck, you may need to get professional help.

To help maintain smooth operation in the future, turn the valves on and off a couple of times a year to help avoid them seizing up. Regular attention to these small details can possibly save you time and effort down the road.

A person’s hand, operating the control panel of their washing machine

FAQs About Various Washer Water Valves

Navigating appliance care often brings up a few common questions. Below, you will find answers to some common questions to help you manage your laundry room with confidence.

Should I turn off washer valves before leaving for an extended time?

Yes, you can turn off the washer water supply valves before a long trip. Turn off the hot and cold water valves by turning the round knobs to the right or by turning lever knobs so that they are perpendicular to the hose. This simple step helps provide peace of mind and helps avoid unexpected water issues while you are away from home. Taking a few minutes to secure your laundry room can help you maintain your home's plumbing integrity.

When is it time to replace washer valves?

If you notice dripping or if the water shutoff/supply valve becomes completely seized, it may be time for a replacement. To help avoid electrical hazards and flooding, turn off the machine using its controls, unplug the power cord from your outlet, and ensure all water supply valves are switched to the 'off' position. Consulting a professional can help you determine the optimal course of action, and regular inspections may help you catch minor issues before they become a bigger problem.

What to do if my washer valve is leaking even after closing?

Keeping up with routine washer and dryer maintenance means keeping an eye on your water supply valves as well. A leaking water supply valve often indicates a worn internal seal or a loose connection. If the leak persists at the valve itself, it’s a good idea to get professional assistance. Addressing leaks promptly helps maintain a clean and functional laundry space.

How often should I check my washer water valves?

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your washer water supply valves and check them every few months. And when your machine is turned off, occasionally turn your water supply valves off and back on, to keep them from seizing up through long disuse. Regular checks help ensure the valves turn smoothly and show no signs of corrosion or dripping. This routine attention helps keep your laundry room operating efficiently year-round.

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