Comfee Washer: How to Fix the Water Inlet Valve
If your Comfee washing machine is not filling with water properly, filling too slowly, or not stopping when full, the issue is likely a faulty water inlet valve. The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the washer from your home’s water supply. Over time, it can become clogged with debris, malfunction due to electrical failure, or wear out completely.
This guide will walk you through how to diagnose, troubleshoot, and fix the water inlet valve on your Comfee washer.
Signs of a Faulty Water Inlet Valve
If you suspect an issue with your washer’s water inlet valve, look for these common symptoms:
- Washer not filling with water or filling very slowly
- Washer overfilling and not stopping when full
- Only hot or cold water is entering the machine, but not both
- Loud humming noise from the valve but no water coming in
- Water leaking from the back of the washer
If your washer has any of these symptoms, it’s time to check and possibly replace the water inlet valve.
Step 1: Check the Water Supply
Before replacing the valve, ensure the issue is not related to your home’s water supply.
- Turn off the washer and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Check the water supply hoses at the back of the washer for kinks or blockages.
- Turn off the water supply valves and disconnect the hoses.
- Inspect the hose screens for dirt, debris, or mineral buildup. If clogged, rinse them under water and reinstall them.
- Turn the water back on and check for strong water flow from both hot and cold water taps.
If the water flow is normal but the washer still isn’t filling properly, the inlet valve may be the problem.
Step 2: Locate the Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is typically located at the back of the washer, where the water supply hoses connect. To access it:
- Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
- Move the washer away from the wall to access the back panel.
- Remove the back panel or top panel (depending on your Comfee model) using a screwdriver.
Once you remove the panel, you will see the water inlet valve, which has electrical connections and two or more water inlet ports.
Step 3: Test the Water Inlet Valve
Before replacing the valve, test it to confirm if it’s faulty.
Check for Clogs
- Disconnect the water hoses from the inlet valve.
- Inspect the valve’s inlet screens for any dirt, debris, or mineral deposits.
- If clogged, soak the screens in vinegar and scrub gently with a toothbrush.
Test the Valve with a Multimeter
If the screens are clean but the washer is still not filling, you need to check if the solenoids in the valve are working.
- Locate the solenoids on the valve (small coils with wires attached).
- Disconnect the wires from the solenoids carefully.
- Set a multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting and place the probes on the solenoid terminals.
- A healthy water inlet valve should show a reading between 500 and 1500 ohms.
- If the reading is zero or infinite, the valve is defective and needs to be replaced.
Step 4: Replace the Water Inlet Valve
If the water inlet valve is faulty, follow these steps to replace it.
- Purchase a compatible replacement valve for your Comfee washer. Check the washer’s model number to ensure compatibility.
- Turn off the washer and disconnect it from power before starting the replacement process.
- Disconnect the water supply hoses and remove any remaining water in them.
- Remove the electrical connectors from the solenoids on the old inlet valve.
- Unscrew the mounting bolts holding the valve in place.
- Pull out the old valve and insert the new one in the same position.
- Reconnect the electrical connectors to the new valve solenoids.
- Reattach the water supply hoses and secure everything back in place.
- Reinstall the back or top panel and tighten all screws.
- Turn the water supply back on and plug the washer in.
Step 5: Test the Washer
Once the new inlet valve is installed, test the washer to ensure it works correctly.
- Run a test cycle to check if water enters the drum properly.
- Observe the water temperature selection to ensure both hot and cold water are working.
- Check for leaks around the water inlet valve and hoses.
If everything runs smoothly, your washer is fixed.
Preventing Future Water Inlet Valve Issues
To extend the life of your washer’s water inlet valve, follow these maintenance tips:
- Use a water softener if your home has hard water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Clean the inlet screens every few months to prevent debris from clogging the valve.
- Avoid over-tightening the water supply hoses, as this can damage the valve.
- Replace old or leaking hoses to prevent pressure buildup on the inlet valve.
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