Washing machine shutoff valves are used to shut off the flow of hot and cold water from supply pipes to the flexible hoses that connect to a washing machine. These valves prevent the washing machine hoses from bursting and causing potential damage to the home.

The water inlet valve has two threaded ports that are connected to hot and cold water hoses at the back of the washing machine. Each port is controlled by a solenoid valve that sends electric power to open and close the flow of hot and cold water based on settings for the wash temperature and signals from the water-level switch.

Turning on a water valve is referred to as allowing the water supply towards the washer. It releases the water flow towards the washer during a wash cycle and you can shut off the water supply to your washer by turning them off. Depending on the wash type (using hot or cold water), these are usually connected to the main supplies of the washer.