Washing Machine Not Filling With Water | Washing Machine Solenoid Valve Fixing

Solenoid Valve Essentials: How They Work and How to Fix Them?

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on solenoid valves! In this guide, we’ll delve deep into the functioning and common issues associated with these valves. Understanding how these valves work is a crucial step in troubleshooting and repairing faults when they occur. Let’s start by understanding the basic functioning of a solenoid valve.

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Before we start, ensure that the appliance is unplugged from the electricity supply for safety.

Understanding the Functioning of a Solenoid Valve

A solenoid valve operates by controlling the flow of water. The journey of water through a solenoid valve begins at a hose connection. The first component water encounters is a plastic mesh filter. This filter plays an essential role in preventing small particles of scale and debris from entering the valve, which could potentially cause malfunctions.

After the filter, the water reaches a rubber washer. This washer is more than just a seal; it serves as a flow restrictor. By acting as a barrier, the restrictor reduces the initial pressure of the water as it enters the valve. This reduction in pressure is crucial for the proper functioning of the valve.

Following the flow restrictor, the water seeps into the upper section of a component known as the diaphragm. This seepage occurs through one or more small holes. Because the water cannot exit from the cavity on top of the diaphragm, it effectively prevents the diaphragm from lifting. This mechanism stops the water from advancing beyond that point.

The Mechanism of Water Flow Control in a Solenoid Valve

Now, the diaphragm is held in place, clamped between the valve body and a piston housing, located inside an electrical coil. The piston covers a small hole in the center of the diaphragm. When an electric charge is passed through the coil, the piston lifts due to magnetization. This action uncovers the hole in the diaphragm, allowing the captive water to flow freely.

The pressure of the incoming water now forces the diaphragm up, and water is allowed to flow through the valve. When the power to the coil is turned off, a small spring on top of the piston pushes it back down onto the diaphragm, effectively covering the central hole. The diaphragm then closes again, and this action shuts off the water.

Solenoid Valve Varieties and Maintenance Tips

It’s worth noting that solenoid valves come in different designs and shapes, but they all operate on the same principle. The filter in the valve is there to catch any limescale or grit that may be in the system. If the filter gets clogged, especially after work has been done on your water supply, it could cause the machine to stop during the rinse cycle if it’s the cold valve that’s affected, or result in a poor wash if it’s the hot valve.

When you’re removing the fill, it’s advisable to use a pair of long-nose pliers to pull it out completely in one movement. This method prevents any small particles of grit from falling back into the valve body, which could cause future issues. The flow restrictor, which sits on a small molding in the center of the valve, can also be removed by pulling it free.

Solenoid valves are not a one-size-fits-all component. Single, twin, and triple solenoid valves serve different purposes in different machines. For instance, a twin cold fill valve supplies water for washing on one side and fabric conditioner on the other side. On the other hand, a triple valve is commonly associated with washer dryers where a cold water supply is needed for the drying cycle.

Please remember that the whole video includes step-by-step and detailed explanations, which may help you reduce your repair time.

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