How to know if the washer’s control board is bad?

If the washer is exhibiting various malfunctioning symptoms such as unresponsive buttons, flashing indicators or indicators not flashing at all, premature stopping of actions, failure to enter the spin cycle, improper drum spin speed, and inability to drain, it’s likely due to a problematic control board.

That being said, in some cases, the symptoms of a problematic board can be similar to those of other problematic components.

For example, slow drum speed can be due to an excess laundry load or problems with the drum bearings.

So, it’s important to rule out the other factors before narrowing it down to the control board.

If you suspect, there is an issue with the control board, the very first sign is to look for any error code on the display panel of your washing machine.

If the control board turns faulty, most washing machines will indicate it through a specific error code.

Another way is to check the control board with a multimeter for continuity on all the available terminals.

This method will require you to remove the control board from the washing machine and have some knowledge of troubleshooting electronic appliances.

In most cases, it is very difficult to pinpoint the problem with a washing machine’s control board.

This is because the control board controls the majority of the washing machine’s functions, from sending commands to the machine’s various sensors and switches to receiving signals.

What is a control board in a washing machine?

A washing machine control board is an electronic component that controls various functions such as water temperature, cycle duration, spin speed, etc.

The control board receives input signals from sensors and switches throughout the washing machine and uses this information to determine how the appliance should operate.

For example, if the user selects a specific wash cycle, the control board will use the input signal to initiate the appropriate sequence of events to complete that cycle.

Symptoms of a problematic control board in a washing machine

Most of the time, you will get confused about the fault between the control board and the connected components as the symptoms may be the same.

There are, however, a few common indications that indicate issues with the control board, here are a few of them.

• The washing machine may not start or there is a delay in starting.
• The washer stops mid-cycle.
• An error code appears on the display panel suspecting faults with the control board.
• The washing machine is stuck in the wash cycle.
• The wash cycle takes longer than usual.
• Washtub won’t fill or keep filling above the required level.
• The washer will not rinse, drain, or spin.
• The washer will drain automatically when there’s no need.
• The control buttons become unresponsive.
• Some lights on the panel won’t flash or none of them will flash when you try to use them.
• The washing machine won’t start/shut off.
• If the water temperature in your washing machine fluctuates or remains constant, regardless of the setting, then the control board may be faulty.

Testing and replacing the control board in a washing machine

Replacing a washing machine control board can be a bit challenging, as the steps may vary from brand to brand as not all models are made the same.

Here’s a general guide on how to replace a washing machine control board:

Step 1: Turn off the power

Before you start replacing the control board, make sure to turn off the power to your washing machine by unplugging it from the wall or switching off the circuit breaker.

Step 2: Remove the top panel

Depending on the model of your washing machine, you may need to remove the top panel to access the control board.

Usually, there are screws at the back of the panel that needs to be removed.

Once the screws are out, slide the panel back and lift it up.

Step 3: Locate the control board

The control board is usually located at the top of the washing machine, behind the control panel. It’s a rectangular-shaped component with wires and connectors attached to it.

To get more clarity on the exact location of the board, refer to the user manual, contact the manufacturer, or take help from a professional.

Step 4: Disconnect the wires and connectors

Carefully unplug all the wires and connectors from the control board.

Make sure to label or take note of which wires and connectors go where so you can reconnect them later.

Step 5: Remove the control board

Once all the wires and connectors are disconnected, you can now remove the control board from its mounting bracket.

There are usually screws or clips that hold the control board in place, so remove them and gently slide out the control board.

Step 6: Testing the control board

• Look around the control board and perform a thorough inspection to identify any corrosion, dust, dirt accumulation, or damage that may have occurred.
• Inspect the control board for any burn marks, which could indicate a short circuit. If you notice any burn marks, then the control board may need to be replaced.
• If you don’t notice any burn marks, make use of a multimeter to test the control board for voltage readings and continuity.
• Make sure to test all the terminals on the control board and before you proceed, unclip the wire harnesses that connect it with the other components.
• Next, locate and inspect the capacitors, resistors, and switches to make sure they are working correctly.
• If there’s no reading on the terminals of the control board, it means the board may have become bad and will need a replacement.
• Lastly, make sure to click a picture of the control board before disconnecting the wires so that it will be easier when you reconnect them to the right places later.

Step 7: Install the new control board

Carefully insert the new control board into the mounting bracket, making sure it’s securely fastened.

Then, connect all the wires and connectors to their proper places, referring to the labels or notes you made earlier.

Step 8: Replace the top panel

Once the new control board is installed and all the wires and connectors are reconnected, replace the top panel by sliding it back into place and securing it with screws.

Step 9: Test the washing machine

Finally, turn the power back on and test the washing machine to make sure the new control board is working properly.

Final Thoughts

The control board is responsible for managing almost all of the washer’s operations.

So, if your washing machine is not completing a cycle or is not responding properly to the settings you have made, then it could be due to an issue with the control board.

It does the job of receiving and sending commands to the various components, such as sensors and switches, of the washing machine.

A multimeter can be used to check the voltage and current readings of all of the components connected to the control board.

It is always best to seek help from a service professional to diagnose and troubleshoot any faults with the control board in a washing machine, as diagnosing faults with the control board can be extremely confusing at times, depending on the symptoms your washer presents.

Frequently Asked Questions