How to Replace 5220JB2010 Water Inlet Valve on LG and Kenmore Refrigerators — Step-by-Step

Your LG or Kenmore fridge's water dispenser slowed to a trickle, and now you've got a puddle forming underneath. The water inlet valve controls water flow to both your ice maker and dispenser — when it fails, you'll notice leaking, slow water output, or no water at all. This guide walks you through replacing the 5220JB2010 water inlet valve on models like the LRDC20731ST, LFC20760ST, and Kenmore 79572309210.

What You Need Before Starting

Tools Required:

• 1/4-inch nut driver or socket wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket or towels (for water spillage)
• Flathead screwdriver

Repair Time: 30-45 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate

You'll also need the replacement valve (part 5220JB2010, which replaces AP4444451, 5220JB2010A, 5220JB2010W, and PS3527440). Have your model number handy — check the label inside your fridge or on the back panel to confirm compatibility.

Safety First

Disconnect power and the water line before replacing the part. Unplug your refrigerator from the wall outlet. Locate the water shut-off valve behind or beneath your fridge and turn it clockwise until it stops. Place towels on the floor — even with the water off, residual water in the lines will drip out when you disconnect the valve.

Step 1: Access the Water Inlet Valve

Pull your refrigerator away from the wall to access the back panel. The water inlet valve is typically located at the bottom rear, where the water line enters the fridge. You'll see a small solenoid valve with two electrical connectors and water lines attached. On some models like the LFC20760ST, you might need to remove a thin metal cover plate with a screwdriver first.

Step 2: Disconnect Water Lines and Electrical Connections

Use your adjustable wrench to loosen the compression fitting where the household water line connects to the inlet valve. Water will drip out — that's normal. Next, disconnect the outlet tubes going to the ice maker and dispenser. These might be push-fit connections (squeeze the collar and pull) or compression fittings. Label them if they're not color-coded. Finally, unplug both wire harness connectors from the valve solenoids by pressing the release tabs.

Step 3: Remove the Mounting Bracket

The inlet valve is secured to the refrigerator frame with a mounting bracket. Use your 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the bracket (usually two or three). Keep these screws — you'll reuse them. Slide the old valve out of the bracket. This is when you'll see if corrosion or mineral buildup caused the failure.

Step 4: Install the New 5220JB2010 Valve

Position the new valve in the mounting bracket, aligning the screw holes. Secure it with the original screws. Don't overtighten — snug is enough. Reconnect the water lines: household supply line to the inlet, outlet lines to the ice maker and dispenser ports. Hand-tighten compression fittings, then give them a quarter-turn with your wrench. Push the electrical connectors onto the solenoid terminals until they click.

Step 5: Test for Leaks and Functionality

Turn the water supply back on slowly. Watch all connection points for leaks. Tighten any fittings that drip. Plug the refrigerator back in and push it partially into place — leave enough room to check the valve area. Dispense water through the door dispenser. You should see steady flow within 10-15 seconds. Check the inlet valve area again after five minutes of operation.

Testing After Installation

Let your fridge run for a few hours, then check for ice production. The first batch might be smaller than normal while the system purges air. Dispense two gallons of water through the door dispenser to flush the new valve and lines. If water flow is still slow or you see leaking, double-check that all compression fittings are tight and the outlet tubes are fully seated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this valve fit both LG and Kenmore refrigerators?

Yes, the 5220JB2010 is the OEM valve used in both LG-branded models (like LRDC20731ST and LFC20760ST) and Kenmore models manufactured by LG (79572309210, 79573252300, and others). Check your model number against the compatibility list to confirm — the label is usually inside the fridge on the left wall or on the back panel.

Why is my new valve leaking from the inlet connection?

The compression fitting likely needs tightening. Turn off the water, dry the area completely, then tighten the nut an additional quarter-turn with your wrench. If it still leaks, the compression ferrule might not be seated properly — disconnect the fitting, inspect the ferrule for damage, and reconnect. Sometimes an old ferrule on the copper tubing needs replacing.

How do I know if the valve failed versus a clogged water filter?

Replace your water filter first if it's been more than six months. If water flow doesn't improve and you see leaking around the valve body or hear buzzing from the solenoids without water flow, the valve itself has failed. You can also test voltage at the solenoid terminals (120V AC when dispensing) if you're comfortable with electrical testing.