Is it possible to repair the control board yourself?

Modern automatic washing machines are packed with a fair amount of electronics: sensors, modules, electronic units, all of which are inspiring and put you in a positive mood until they start to break down.

In this case, the question arises: what to do next? If the pump, heating element, and even the motor and bearings can be repaired relatively easily, then how can a washing machine's control unit be repaired? Can it really be repaired too? We'll explore this question in this article.

What functions does the control board perform in a washing machine?

The control board, also known as the control module, is the most important component of a modern automatic washing machine, ensuring the proper operation of all electrical and electronic components. Simply put, it's the brain of the washing machine, managing all its components, coordinating and synchronizing their operation. Any malfunction of the control board will cause the washing machine to malfunction, and in the worst case, it will stop working altogether.

What main modules does the board control? This will depend on the make and model of your washing machine, but without going into too much detail, it controls:

• power supply capacitor;
• heating element;
• drain pump;
• hatch locking device sensor;
• tachometer;
• stator and rotor of the engine;
• inlet valve;
• temperature sensor;
• pressure switch;
• linear water level sensor.

Please note! In washing machines with a built-in Wi-Fi module and pre-wash valve, the control module is even more complex. A diagram is required to understand all the interconnections.

Signs indicating a breakdown, causes of board failure

A control board failure is impossible to miss, as it can cause the washing machine to either "go crazy" and stop running programs properly, or simply shut off and won't turn on. You can indirectly identify a board failure by the washing machine's symptoms and behavior:

1. if the spin cycle does not activate in the machine;
2. if the display shows error code, indicating a breakdown of the control board;
3. On washing machines without a display, all the lights on the control panel light up and flash alternately;
4. the machine drains water before it has time to fill;
5. the washing process starts but does not stop;
6. some washing program either does not start at all or does not work properly;
7. the drum rotates very slowly;
8. the engine either “oils” at maximum speed, or turns over barely;
9. the water does not heat up properly or overheats.

Please note! There may be more signs of failure, depending on the technical complexity of your washing machine. To expand the list of symptoms, you'll need a diagram of the washing machine.

As you can see, we haven't listed a single clear sign that would accurately indicate a control board failure, because they simply don't exist. Even if an error code appears on the washing machine display indicating a malfunction of the control board, this is ambiguous information. However, if such a code appears or there are other signs of a breakdown, it is imperative to check the control board.

Modern electronic circuit boards (especially those made in Korea) are quite reliable and can operate without interruption for decades. So why do they fail? There are several reasons.

• A manufacturing defect, which can manifest itself in anything from poorly traced circuits on the board, damage to the board itself, poorly soldered components, and so on. This may require a board replacement.
• A power surge can cause individual components or entire sections of the board to burn out. A replacement board may also be necessary.
• Water on the board. Moisture causes components and parts of the board to burn out.
• A sudden break in the power supply cable. This could cause a power surge and damage the control module.
• The user shuts down the machine while it's running. This is an extremely dangerous situation that can damage the control module.

Often, a washing machine's control board burns out after improper transportation and connection. Owners move to a new house or apartment with all their belongings and, while transporting the washing machine, forget to remove the detergent drawer. There is often a small amount of water left in the tray, and when the machine is turned over during transportation, water spills out directly onto the control unit. If the unit doesn't have time to dry and the machine is plugged in, the control board is guaranteed to fail. This happens quite often.

How can I tell if the board is broken and what should I do with it?

How can you finally determine whether the control board needs to be replaced or whether you can repair it yourself? How can you confirm the problem? In fact, doing so without opening the control unit and testing its components is virtually impossible. Some modern washing machines have a self-diagnostic mode, which can sometimes be very helpful in identifying the problem, but not always. If you need to know 100%, disassemble and test the control module, for this you will need a diagram of such a module.

It's worth noting that only an experienced technician can professionally test a board for defects and determine whether it needs replacement. Do-it-yourself testing can lead to incorrect conclusions.For our part, we can only recommend performing a superficial test with a multimeter. Its essence lies in the methodical inspection of all board components and the identification of faulty parts. And, of course, a thorough visual inspection of the board shouldn't be neglected.

Important! Often, the problem arises immediately after disassembling the control unit and inspecting the control board: burnt contacts, burned-out sections of the board, etc.

If you are having trouble getting it to disassemble the washing machine If you can't reach the control unit, it means you lack the necessary technical skills. In this case, don't hesitate to call a specialist. They have a detailed diagram of your control unit and the entire machine, as well as specialized computer programs for computer testing. Only after a thorough analysis of the fault can a final conclusion be made as to whether the control board needs to be replaced or whether repairs can be made.

In conclusion, it's important to note that repairing a washing machine control board yourself is very difficult. You need a control unit schematic, and not only the schematic but also the skills to read it. You'll also need a multimeter, a computer with specialized software, and much more. It's smarter and more reliable to consult a specialist.

   

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