How to Replace GE Refrigerator Water Valve WR57X10033 RIV 11AE 2 050829a

GE WR57X10033

Last Updated: April 22, 2025

Is your GE refrigerator not dispensing water or ice? Maybe you’ve discovered a mysterious puddle forming underneath? The culprit could be a faulty water inlet valve (specifically the RIV 11AE 2 model). This comprehensive guide will walk you through identifying, diagnosing, and replacing your GE refrigerator water valve WR57X10033 to restore your appliance to proper working condition.

What You’ll Learn:

How to identify a faulty water valve
Which tools and parts you’ll need
Step-by-step replacement instructions
Troubleshooting tips after installation

Time & Difficulty:

Time Required: 30-45 minutes
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Tools Needed: Basic household tools
Cost: $25-$45 for replacement part

Part Identification & Compatibility

Visual Identification of the WR57X10033 RIV 11AE 2 Valve

The GE refrigerator water valve WR57X10033 (also known as RIV 11AE 2 050829a) is a critical component that controls water flow to your ice maker and water dispenser. Here’s how to identify it:

Physical Characteristics: Small rectangular valve assembly with plastic housing
Inlet/Outlet Ports: Features a 1/4″ compression inlet (connects to your home’s water supply line) and a 1/4″ quick-connect outlet (feeds to the ice maker system)
Electrical Connectors: Has two 1/4″ male terminals that operate on 115V, 35W
Typical Location: Usually found at the rear bottom of the refrigerator, behind the kickplate or on the back panel

Compatible Models

This water valve is compatible with numerous GE refrigerator models, including but not limited to:

GTE18GMH series
GSS25WGSA series
GTS18KGMRBB series
And many other GE side-by-side and bottom-freezer models

Cross-Referenced Part Numbers

When searching for this replacement part, you may find it listed under various part numbers, all of which are compatible:

WR57X10033 (primary part number)
AP3189335
PS304375

This valve is also compatible with certain Kenmore refrigerators in the 253 series, as many Kenmore appliances were manufactured by GE.

Symptoms of Failure

Before beginning the replacement process, it’s important to confirm that your water valve is indeed the problem. Here are the most common symptoms of a failed RIV 11AE 2 water valve:

No Water Dispensing

You press the water dispenser paddle and hear the solenoid click (indicating the valve is receiving power), but no water comes out. This suggests the valve’s internal components have failed mechanically.

Water Leaking

You’ve discovered water pooling underneath your refrigerator. This often indicates the valve isn’t closing properly or has developed cracks in its housing, allowing water to seep out continuously.

Unusual Sounds

A hissing sound coming from the valve area can indicate partial blockages or mechanical issues that are preventing proper operation.

Additional symptoms may include:

Ice maker producing small or incomplete ice cubes (indicating reduced water flow)
Inconsistent water flow from the dispenser
Water dispenser working, but ice maker not functioning (or vice versa)

Safety Precautions

⚠️ WARNING: Always prioritize safety when working with appliances that combine water and electricity. Following these precautions will help prevent electrical shock, water damage, and personal injury.

1
Unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet. Never work on an appliance that’s still connected to power.
2
Turn off the water supply to the refrigerator by locating and closing the shut-off valve. This is typically located behind the refrigerator or under the kitchen sink.
3
Relieve water pressure in the line by pressing the water dispenser paddle for a few seconds until water stops flowing.
4
Prepare for water spills by having towels and a bucket ready to catch any residual water in the lines.

Tools & Materials Needed

Essential Tools

Adjustable wrench or 1/2″ open-end wrench
1/4″ nut driver (for removing access panels)
Bucket and towels (for water spills)
Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers

Optional Tools

Multimeter (for testing solenoid continuity)
Flashlight (for better visibility in tight spaces)
Pliers (for stubborn connectors)

Replacement Part

The primary material needed is the replacement valve itself:

GE Refrigerator Water Valve WR57X10033 RIV 11AE 2 050829a

This part can be purchased from various sources including:

Amazon
Repair Clinic
Appliance parts retailers
OneSourceApplianceParts.com

Always verify compatibility with your specific refrigerator model before purchasing.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Follow these detailed steps to replace your GE refrigerator water valve WR57X10033 (RIV 11AE 2):

Step 1: Locate the Valve

Pull the refrigerator away from the wall to access the back and bottom areas.
Remove the base grille or kick plate at the bottom front of the refrigerator using a 1/4″ nut driver (if the valve is front-accessible).
Alternatively, check the rear access panel if your model has the valve mounted in the back.
Locate the water inlet valve, which is typically connected to the water supply line coming from your home plumbing.

Step 2: Disconnect Water Lines

Place a bucket under the water supply connection to catch any spills.
For the inlet (supply) line: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the compression nut that secures the water supply line to the valve.
For the outlet line: Depending on your model, either press the collar on the quick-connect fitting while pulling the tubing out, or loosen another compression fitting.
Be careful not to damage the plastic water lines during removal.

Step 3: Remove Electrical Connectors & Mounting Hardware

Locate the electrical harness connected to the valve’s solenoid terminals.
Carefully disconnect these electrical connectors by pulling them straight off the terminals (do not pull on the wires themselves).
Identify and remove any screws or brackets securing the valve to the refrigerator frame.
Make note of how the valve is positioned and oriented for correct installation of the replacement.

Step 4: Install the New Valve

Position the new WR57X10033 valve in the same orientation as the old one.
Secure it using the mounting screws or bracket that held the original valve.
Reconnect the electrical connectors to the terminals on the new valve (polarity is not usually an issue, but match the original configuration if possible).
Reattach the water outlet line to the quick-connect port, ensuring it’s fully inserted.
Reconnect the water inlet line, tightening the compression nut snugly (but avoid over-tightening which could damage the threads or create leaks).

Step 5: Test and Finalize

Turn on the water supply to the refrigerator.
Inspect all connections for leaks.
Plug the refrigerator back into the electrical outlet.
Test the water dispenser and listen for the valve to activate.
Replace any access panels or grilles that were removed.
Push the refrigerator back to its original position, being careful not to pinch or kink the water line.

Troubleshooting Post-Installation

Even with careful installation, you might encounter some issues after replacing the water valve. Here’s how to address common problems:

Issue	Possible Causes	Solution
Water Leaking at Connections	Loose compression fittings; damaged gaskets	Tighten compression nuts slightly; check for damaged/worn O-rings or gaskets and replace if necessary
No Water Flow	Low water pressure; faulty solenoid; kinked water line	Check home water pressure (should be minimum 20 psi); test solenoid continuity (should read 200–500Ω); inspect lines for kinks
Slow Water Flow	Partially clogged valve; sediment buildup; clogged water filter	Clean inlet screen; replace water filter; check for restrictions in water line
Valve Buzzing	Water pressure too high; valve not mounting securely	Install water pressure regulator if pressure exceeds 120 psi; secure valve mounting

Testing the Solenoid with a Multimeter

If you suspect the new valve’s solenoid is defective:

Disconnect power to the refrigerator.
Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
Touch the multimeter probes to the two terminals on the valve solenoid.
A reading between 200–500Ω indicates a good solenoid.
No continuity (infinite resistance) or a very low reading indicates a defective valve that should be replaced.

Maintenance Tips

To extend the life of your new water valve and prevent future failures, follow these maintenance recommendations:

Replace Water Filter Regularly: Change your refrigerator’s water filter every 6 months to prevent sediment buildup that can clog the water valve.
Annual Inspection: Once a year, pull out your refrigerator and inspect the water valve and connections for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage.
Water Quality Management: If you have hard water, consider a whole-house water softener to reduce mineral deposits that can damage valves.
Pressure Regulation: Ensure your home’s water pressure is between 40-120 psi for optimal valve performance.
Vacation Mode: If leaving home for extended periods, consider turning off the water supply to the refrigerator to prevent potential leaks during your absence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I test the solenoid on my water valve?

A: Use a multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms). Disconnect power to the refrigerator, then touch the multimeter probes to the two terminals on the valve solenoid. A reading between 200–500Ω indicates a good solenoid. No continuity (infinite resistance) or a very low reading suggests a defective valve that needs replacement.

Q: The valve still leaks after installation. What’s wrong?

A: Check that the compression nut is properly tightened (but not over-tightened which can damage fittings). Ensure the plastic water line is fully inserted into quick-connect fittings. Inspect for damaged O-rings or gaskets and replace if necessary. If leaking persists, the valve housing itself may be cracked and require replacement.

Q: Does this valve work with Kenmore refrigerators?

A: Yes, the WR57X10033 water valve is compatible with many Kenmore refrigerators in the 253 series. This is because GE manufactured many Kenmore appliances, and they share common parts. Always verify your specific model number before purchasing.

Q: Why is my ice maker producing small cubes after valve replacement?

A: Small ice cubes typically indicate insufficient water flow. This could be due to low water pressure (should be at least 20 psi), a partially clogged valve inlet screen, a restricted water line, or an issue with the ice maker itself. Start by checking water pressure and inspecting the valve’s inlet screen for debris.

Q: Can I replace just the solenoid instead of the entire valve?

A: While technically possible in some cases, it’s not recommended. The entire valve assembly (WR57X10033) is designed to be replaced as a unit. Attempting to replace just the solenoid often leads to leaks or improper function. Given the reasonable cost of the complete valve assembly, full replacement is the most reliable solution.

Final Checks & Conclusion

After completing the installation of your new GE refrigerator water valve WR57X10033 (RIV 11AE 2), perform these final checks:

Observe the valve and connections for several minutes to ensure no leaks are present.
Listen for unusual sounds when the water dispenser is activated.
Check that water flows at a normal rate through the dispenser.
Allow 24 hours for ice production to resume completely.
If you have a water filter, consider replacing it at this time to ensure optimal performance.

Important: If you continue to experience issues after replacing the valve, consider consulting with an appliance professional. While this repair is manageable for many DIY enthusiasts, some refrigerator issues can be complex and may require specialized knowledge.

Replacing your GE refrigerator’s water valve is a cost-effective repair that can extend the life of your appliance. By following this guide, you’ve not only saved money on service calls but also gained valuable appliance maintenance skills.

Remember that regular maintenance of your refrigerator’s water system, including timely filter replacements and periodic inspections, can prevent future issues with your water valve and ensure consistent performance for years to come.

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