How to replace the Lid Switch in a Washing Machine?

In most cases, a lid switch is located at the top of the washer just under the washer’s top, on the lid, or near the top of the washer in front. Once you have located the lid switch you can replace it by using a putty knife and a screwdriver.

In order to replace the lid switch in a washing machine, use a putty knife to release the spring clip or locking tab that holds the lid switch in place. Next, unscrew the two screws that secure the lid switch and pull it out. Then install the new lid switch by simply reversing these steps.

The most challenging part of this entire process is removing the panels and then locating the lid switch, followed by detaching the wire harness for detachment.

But we will try to make it easier to get through this process with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.

What is a lid switch in a washing machine?

The lid switch is a safety device that is usually located on the top of the washing machine. It prevents the washer from operating if the lid is left open for any reason.

A faulty switch will not allow your washer to run even if the lid is closed, thereby disrupting your laundry routine. In such a case, you will have to replace the switch in order to get your washing machine up and running again.

Depending on the model of the washer, there are various kinds of lid switches available. The most prevalent variety is the snap switch, which is found in most current devices.

They are simple to install or upgrade.

Another type of lid switch is the push-button switch, which is more complex to replace, but it’s doable.

If you have an older model, the lid switch type may be different. The toggle switch, rotary switch, and slide switches are some examples.

With all that said, just go through the user manual to determine which kind of lid switch your machine has so you can order the suitable one.

Why is the lid switch important?

The lid switch is extremely important from a safety standpoint. It is designed in such a way that it shuts off the power to the washer if the lid is open.

This helps to prevent injuries as well as water damage in case someone tries to operate the washer with the lid open.

In addition, the lid switch also helps to conserve energy by shutting off the power to the washing machine when the lid is open.

Where is the lid switch located in a washing machine?

The lid switch is usually located under the washer’s top, on the lid, at the top (front) of the washing machine, or below the control panel.

Moreover, in some washer models, the lid switch can be found hidden behind a small access panel.

If your washing machine does not have a lid switch, then it’s possible that it may have a door switch located in the doorjamb. It is usually a large, round, red-colored switch.

Both the lid switch and the door switch prevent the washing machine from operating when the lid or door is open.

Lastly, if your washing machine does not have a lid or a door switch, it may include an optical sensor.

The optical sensor is typically located in the doorjamb and uses a light beam to detect when the doorway is open.

If a lid switch turns out to be faulty or broken, then your washer will act weird. It will refuse to start when you close the lid. Furthermore, it may spin but won’t drain as required.

How can you tell if a lid switch is faulty or broken? (symptoms of bad washer lid switch)

One of the most common symptoms of a damaged or faulty lid switch is the “open door error code.” If the control panel on your washing machine indicates that the lid is not closed, it may be a sign that the lid switch is either faulty or worn out.

This is because the control panel uses sensors to detect whether or not the lid switch is engaged.

Other signs that you may need to replace the lid switch include the washer not starting, water filling issues, the washer not completing the cycles, and stopping mid-cycle.

While the above-mentioned symptoms are typical, in order to completely rule out the lid switch failure, you will need to test it.

How to test a washer’s lid switch?

Before deciding to replace the lid switch, it’s important that you test it to see if it’s truly faulty.

There is always a possibility that the problem is not with the lid switch but with something else entirely.

Testing the lid switch is fairly simple, you just need to see if there is a continuity between the two terminals when the switch is engaged.

Follow the below tips to test the washer’s lid

• Inspect for any dirt accumulation around the connected areas. If you find it dirty then simply clear the dirt accumulation using a soft-bristled brush and wipe it off with a damp cloth.
• Check the wiring to the lid switch to make sure it is not loose or if there are any signs of wear-outs. Make sure to inspect the connected wires thoroughly and the two connecting points.
• It is advisable to read your washing machine’s user manual before attempting to carry out any repairs or replacements as it will provide you with specific instructions that are related to the model that you are using.
• Use a multimeter to test the lid switch, to do this simply open the lid and press down on the switch. The multimeter should show continuity and if it does not then it may need to be replaced provided all the other electrical connections are in place.

Here’s how you can use the Multimeter

In order to test the lid switch, you will need a multimeter for the continuity tests.

Step 1: Start by detaching the lid switch from the main washing machine unit.

Step 2: To test the continuity, touch one end of the terminal with one probe and the other end of the terminal with the other probe.

Step 3: Next, actuate the switch and take the reading.

Step 4: If the meter reading shows some resistance, the switch is in good shape, and it indicates that the switch has continuity.

However, if the meter needle does not move or if the digital display does not show any changes, it means there is no continuity.

In other words, the switch is either damaged or worn out.

Note: If your washer uses a closed switch, the continuity should be there even before it’s activated. And if the washer is using an open switch, the continuity will show only post activating it. So, if the switch shows continuity when it’s not supposed to, it’s likely that the switch has been shorted.

How to replace the lid switch in a washing machine?

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to replace the faulty or damaged lid switch.

Final Thoughts

A faulty lid switch can put your washing machine to a complete halt.

Replacing your washing machine lid switch is a very simple DIY fix that can be done using basic tools.

With that said, be sure to unplug your washing machine before beginning this repair, and always use caution when working with electrical appliances.

If you have any difficulties, pause yourself and contact a service professional for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions