Your LG dishwasher was running just fine—until one day, you noticed the detergent tablet was still intact at the end of the cycle. You tried switching to another brand. Then you tried liquid detergent. You even ran the dishwasher without dishes to check if it was overloaded. Still, the tablet remained untouched. If this sounds familiar, the problem may not lie in the detergent itself but in a hidden yet crucial component: the water inlet valve to the detergent dispenser.
This overlooked part of your dishwasher plays a vital role in ensuring detergent reaches your dishes and performs its job. Without it working properly, your LG dishwasher can’t dissolve tablets, and your dishes come out dirty and covered in residue. Let’s explore what the water supply valve does, how to identify a malfunction, and why you should act fast to get it repaired.
What Does the Water Inlet Valve to the Dispenser Do?
In LG dishwashers, detergent tablets are stored in the detergent compartment, usually located on the inside of the door. During the wash cycle, the door opens at the right moment, and water is directed into the compartment to dissolve the detergent and carry it into the wash tub.
This water redirection is handled by the water inlet valve. It’s a small, electrically controlled device that regulates water flow from the main water line into the dishwasher. A secondary pathway allows water to spray directly into the dispenser compartment. If this valve is blocked, worn out, or completely failed, water won’t reach the detergent, and your dishwasher will fail to clean effectively.
Common Signs of a Malfunctioning Water Inlet Valve
- Undissolved Detergent Tablet
This is the clearest sign. After a full cycle, the detergent remains untouched in the dispenser. - Dishes Are Still Dirty
Since detergent isn’t being released properly, your dishes come out cloudy, greasy, or stained. - Dispenser Door Opens, but Nothing Happens
You may notice the detergent compartment opens during the cycle, but the tablet is dry or only slightly wet. - Unusual Noises or Silence
A malfunctioning valve might cause your dishwasher to make odd sounds or skip normal water intake stages. - Error Codes
Some LG dishwashers may show error codes related to water intake or cycle failure, especially if the issue persists.
Why It’s Not the Detergent’s Fault
When people experience a detergent tablet that won’t dissolve, their first instinct is to blame the detergent. While cheap or expired products can cause issues, modern tablets are designed to dissolve easily under normal operating conditions. If your water temperature is right, and you’re loading the dishwasher correctly, the detergent should dissolve with no problem. Persistent issues point to mechanical failure—specifically in the water supply to the detergent chamber.
What Causes the Valve to Malfunction?
- Wear and Tear
Like all mechanical parts, the inlet valve can wear down over time due to frequent use. - Sediment Buildup
Mineral deposits from hard water can clog the valve and prevent proper flow. - Electrical Issues
A wiring problem or control board fault may stop the valve from opening at the right moment. - Improper Installation or Impact
If the unit has been recently moved or repaired, the valve could have been damaged or dislodged.
Why Prompt Repair Is Important
Neglecting this problem won’t just result in dirty dishes. Over time, detergent buildup can cause blockages or internal corrosion. Plus, repeated cycles without cleaning power waste water, electricity, and your time.
Even more importantly, the dishwasher may strain other components trying to compensate for failed detergent delivery. A relatively simple valve repair today can prevent much costlier breakdowns in the future.
Call the Professionals at Poway Appliance Repair Service Center
At Poway Appliance Repair Service Center, we specialize in identifying and fixing issues in LG dishwashers, including malfunctioning water supply valves to the detergent dispenser. Our technicians are trained, certified, and experienced in fast, effective repairs that get your kitchen back to full function without delay.
We offer:
- Same-day and next-day repair appointments
- Affordable diagnostic and repair rates
- Genuine LG replacement parts
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
If your LG dishwasher has stopped dissolving detergent tablets, don’t waste time on guesswork. Let the professionals handle it right the first time.
Contact Poway Appliance Repair Service Center today to schedule your repair. Clean dishes are just one service call away.
Contact us
(858) 203-0990
