Whirlpool, Maytag & Amana Washer Cold Water Inlet Valve Parts — Models & Compatibility

Your Whirlpool, Maytag, or Amana front-load washer suddenly won't fill with cold water, or it's taking forever to start a cycle. The cold water inlet valve controls water flow into your machine, and when it fails, you'll notice issues like no cold water entering the drum, leaking around the valve connection, or the washer getting stuck at the beginning of a cycle. This hub covers the W11316256 replacement valve that fits dozens of models across these three brands.

Is This the Right Part for Your Model?

The W11316256 valve fits Maytag MHW5630 and MHW6630 series washers, along with corresponding Whirlpool and Amana front-loaders built on the same platform. Your model number is typically located inside the washer door frame or on the back panel near the top edge. Look for a white sticker with a string of letters and numbers — if it starts with MHW56 or MHW66, there's a strong chance this valve fits your machine. You can also cross-reference the older part numbers this replaces: W11036930, AP6835737, 4929298, and PS12711564.

About This Replacement Valve

This cold water inlet valve is a solenoid-operated component that opens and closes to regulate water flow into your washer's tub. When working properly, it responds to electronic signals from your washer's control board to allow precise amounts of cold water during fill cycles. Common failure modes include the solenoid coil burning out (no water flow), the valve diaphragm cracking (causing leaks), or mineral buildup preventing the valve from closing completely (leading to overfilling or continuous dripping). You'll often hear a faint humming sound when the valve receives power but won't open if the solenoid has failed. The W11316256 is a direct OEM replacement that restores proper cold water dispensing, detergent mixing, and fabric softener dilution during rinse cycles.

Compatible Model Series

This valve fits multiple series within the Whirlpool family of brands. The MHW5630 series includes both chrome (HC) and white (HW) color variants, while the MHW6630 series represents the higher-capacity versions with similar internal components. All these models share the same valve mounting configuration and electrical connector type, making the W11316256 a universal fit across the product line.

Troubleshooting Water Fill Problems

Before replacing the valve, verify that your home's cold water supply is fully open and has adequate pressure. Disconnect the inlet hose and check the small mesh screen filter inside the valve inlet port — sediment buildup here can restrict flow and mimic a failed valve. If water flows freely from your supply line but the washer still won't fill, and you hear the valve humming without water entering, that confirms the valve mechanism itself has failed. Leaking around the valve body or dripping from the hose connections after cycles complete also indicates it's time for replacement.

Why This Valve Fails

Hard water is the primary enemy of inlet valves. Calcium and magnesium deposits accumulate on the valve seat and diaphragm over time, preventing proper sealing. In areas with very hard water, valves can fail in as little as 3-4 years. The solenoid coil can also burn out from voltage spikes or simply wear out from thousands of open-close cycles. If your home has experienced power surges or you've noticed other electronic glitches with your washer, electrical failure is likely the culprit.