How to Replace AGM73269501 Water Inlet Valve Filter Screen on LG Kenmore Washer — Step-by-Step

You start a load of laundry and notice the water trickles in slower than usual — or worse, doesn't fill at all. Before you assume the inlet valve itself has failed, there's a tiny screen filter inside that catches sediment and mineral buildup. The AGM73269501 filter screen sits right where the water supply hoses connect to your LG or Kenmore washer, and when it clogs, water flow drops to nearly nothing. Replacing this $9.99 part takes about five minutes and requires no special tools.

What You Need Before Starting

• Flathead screwdriver (small)
• Needle-nose pliers
• Towel or shallow pan (for minor water spillage)
• Flashlight (optional, but helpful)

Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes

Difficulty: EASY

Safety First

Turn off both hot and cold water supply valves behind your washer completely. Unplug the machine from the wall outlet. Even though you're only working on the inlet connection, unplugging prevents any accidental cycle start. Keep a towel handy — you'll get a few ounces of water dripping from the hoses when you disconnect them.

Step 1: Disconnect the Water Supply Hoses

Pull your washer away from the wall enough to access the back panel comfortably. Locate where the hot and cold water hoses connect to the machine — usually two threaded connections at the top rear. Using your hand or a pair of pliers, turn the hose coupling counterclockwise to loosen. Water will dribble out, so position your towel underneath before fully removing each hose.

Step 2: Locate the Filter Screens

Look inside the inlet port openings on the back of your washer — you'll see a small mesh screen sitting inside each threaded connection. These screens are what you're replacing. The AGM73269501 fits both the hot and cold inlets. They often appear whitish or brownish from mineral deposits and sediment buildup, especially if you have hard water.

Step 3: Remove the Old Filter Screens

Use needle-nose pliers to grip the edge of each filter screen firmly. Pull straight out — don't twist or you might damage the plastic housing. If a screen is severely clogged and stuck, gently wiggle it side to side while pulling. Some screens come out easily, others require a bit more force. Once removed, you'll likely see a buildup of rust particles, sand, or calcium deposits on the mesh.

Step 4: Install the New AGM73269501 Filter Screens

Take your new AGM73269501 screens and inspect them — they should be clean white mesh with a plastic rim. Press each screen into the inlet port opening firmly with your thumb until it sits flush with the housing. Make sure it's fully seated and not tilted at an angle. The screen should fit snugly but not require excessive force.

Step 5: Reconnect Water Hoses and Test

Thread each water supply hose back onto its respective inlet connection, turning clockwise until hand-tight. Give it an extra quarter-turn with pliers, but don't overtighten or you'll crack the plastic threads. Turn the water supply valves back on slowly and check for leaks at both connections. Plug the washer back in and run a quick rinse cycle to verify normal water flow has been restored.

Testing After Installation

Start a regular wash cycle and observe the fill process. Your washer should now fill at normal speed — typically taking 2-4 minutes to reach the appropriate water level for a medium load. Listen for the inlet valves clicking open and closed properly. Check behind the machine one more time after the first fill cycle completes to ensure no water is leaking from the hose connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace the water inlet filter screens on my LG washer?

Replace them whenever you notice slow fill times or reduced water pressure. In areas with hard water or older plumbing, inspect them annually. If your water supply has visible sediment or you've had recent plumbing work done in your home, check the screens within a few months. The AGM73269501 screens typically last 2-5 years under normal conditions.

Will clogged inlet screens cause error codes on my LG washer?

Yes, severely restricted water flow from clogged screens often triggers IE (water inlet error) or OE (drain error, because the washer thinks it didn't fill properly). Models like the WM2450HRA and WM3470HVA are particularly sensitive to low water flow and will stop mid-cycle with flashing error codes when the inlet screens become obstructed.

Can I clean the old filter screens instead of replacing them?

You can try soaking them in white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits, then scrubbing gently with an old toothbrush. However, once the mesh becomes permanently discolored or develops holes from corrosion, replacement is necessary. At $9.99 for the AGM73269501, fresh screens provide better flow and protection for your inlet valve than trying to salvage heavily clogged originals.