Whirlpool Dishwasher Troubleshooting: How to Quickly Identify and Solve Control Board Issues

A malfunctioning control board can bring your Whirlpool dishwasher to a standstill, leaving you with a sink full of dirty dishes and a headache. If you suspect a faulty control board, don’t despair! With the right tools and a bit of technical know-how, you can test the board yourself and determine if it needs replacement. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps of testing a Whirlpool dishwasher control board, empowering you to diagnose and fix the issue like a pro.

Tools and Materials

Before embarking on the testing process, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver (Phillips head)
• Torx screwdriver
• Wire stripper
• Electrical tape
• Safety glasses

Safety Precautions

Before handling any electrical components, always adhere to these safety precautions:

• Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or electrical sparks.
• Be cautious when working with sharp tools.

Step-by-Step Testing Procedure

1. Accessing the Control Board

• Remove the front access panel of the dishwasher by unscrewing the screws located at the bottom of the door.
• Locate the control board, which is typically mounted on the back of the dishwasher’s inner door panel.
• Use a Torx screwdriver to remove the screws holding the control board in place.

2. Visual Inspection

• Carefully examine the control board for any visible damage, such as burnt components, broken wires, or loose connections.
• If any damage is detected, you may need to replace the control board.

3. Continuity Test

• Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (Ω).
• Touch one probe to a terminal on the control board and the other probe to a ground point (e.g., the dishwasher’s metal frame).
• If the multimeter reads “0” or a low resistance value, the circuit is complete.
• Repeat this test for all terminals on the control board.

4. Voltage Test

• Set your multimeter to the AC voltage setting (V~).
• Touch one probe to a terminal on the control board and the other probe to the dishwasher’s neutral wire (usually white).
• If the multimeter reads a voltage between 110-120V, the control board is receiving power.
• Repeat this test for all terminals that should receive power.

5. Button and Switch Test

• Use your multimeter to test the continuity of the buttons and switches on the control board.
• Set the multimeter to the continuity setting (Ω).
• Touch one probe to one terminal of the switch or button and the other probe to the other terminal.
• When the switch or button is pressed, the multimeter should read “0” or a low resistance value.

6. Actuator and Solenoid Test

• Use your multimeter to test the continuity of the actuators and solenoids on the control board.
• Set the multimeter to the continuity setting (Ω).
• Touch one probe to one terminal of the actuator or solenoid and the other probe to the other terminal.
• If the actuator or solenoid is functional, the multimeter should read “0” or a low resistance value.

7. Reassembly

• Once all tests are complete, reassemble the dishwasher in the reverse order of disassembly.
• Tighten all screws securely to ensure proper operation.
• Plug the dishwasher back into the power outlet and test its functionality.

Troubleshooting

If the control board fails any of the tests, it may be faulty and need replacement. However, before replacing the control board, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

• Check for loose connections or damaged wires.
• Ensure the dishwasher is properly grounded.
• Reset the dishwasher by unplugging it for 30 minutes and then plugging it back in.

Takeaways: Empowering You to Diagnose and Repair

By following these steps, you can effectively test a Whirlpool dishwasher control board and determine if it needs replacement. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with electrical components. With a bit of patience and technical know-how, you can restore your dishwasher to pristine condition, saving yourself time and money.

What You Need to Know

Q: What are the symptoms of a faulty dishwasher control board?
A: Symptoms may include the dishwasher not starting, buttons not responding, or strange noises during operation.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher control board?
A: The cost of a replacement control board can vary depending on the model of your dishwasher. On average, it can range from $100 to $300.

Q: Can I fix a dishwasher control board myself?
A: While it is possible to fix some minor issues with a dishwasher control board, it is generally recommended to replace the entire board if it is faulty.