Diy dishwasher fix: step-by-step guide to test whirlpool control board and save $$$

Is your Whirlpool dishwasher acting up? Before calling a repair technician, you can try testing the control board to see if it’s the culprit. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to test whirlpool dishwasher control board, helping you save time and money.

What is a Dishwasher Control Board?

The control board is the brains of your dishwasher. It receives signals from the buttons and dials on the front panel and sends commands to the various components of the dishwasher, such as the pump, motor, and heating element.

Symptoms of a Faulty Control Board

Here are some common signs that may indicate a faulty control board:

• Dishwasher won’t start
• Dishwasher won’t fill with water
• Dishwasher won’t drain water
• Dishwasher won’t heat water
• Dishwasher won’t cycle through all of its settings

How to Test Whirlpool Dishwasher Control Board

Materials You’ll Need:

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver

Safety Precautions:

• Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
• Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.

Step 1: Remove the Control Panel

• Locate the screws that hold the control panel in place.
• Remove the screws and carefully lift the control panel off the dishwasher.

Step 2: Locate the Control Board

• The control board is usually located behind the control panel.
• It’s typically a rectangular circuit board with wires and connectors attached to it.

Step 3: Test the Power Supply

• Set your multimeter to the AC voltage setting.
• Connect the black probe to the neutral wire (usually white) and the red probe to the hot wire (usually black).
• You should see a reading of 120 volts.

Step 4: Test the Input and Output Signals

• Set your multimeter to the DC voltage setting.
• Connect the black probe to the ground wire (usually green) and the red probe to the input signal wire (usually blue or orange).
• You should see a reading of 5 volts.
• Repeat this step for the output signal wire (usually red or yellow). You should also see a reading of 5 volts.

Interpreting the Results

• If you get a reading of 0 volts for the power supply, input signal, or output signal, the control board is likely faulty.
• If you get a reading of 120 volts for the power supply but 0 volts for the input or output signals, the problem may be with the wiring or another component.

Repair or Replace the Control Board

• If you’ve determined that the control board is faulty, you can either repair or replace it.
• If you’re comfortable with electronics repair, you can try to solder the faulty components on the control board.
• If you’re not comfortable with electronics repair, it’s best to replace the control board.

Takeaways: Restoring Dishwasher Functionality

Testing the whirlpool dishwasher control board is a straightforward process that can help you diagnose and troubleshoot problems with your dishwasher. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save time and money by repairing or replacing the control board yourself.

What People Want to Know

Q: What are the other possible causes of dishwasher problems?

A: Other possible causes include faulty wiring, a clogged pump, a malfunctioning motor, or a broken heating element.

Q: Can I reset the control board?

A: Yes, you can try resetting the control board by unplugging the dishwasher from the power outlet for 30 seconds and then plugging it back in.

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 make and model of your dishwasher. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $250 for a new control board.