How to change the temperature sensor in a washing machine?

Every element of a washing machine plays a vital role in its proper operation. For example, the temperature sensor is responsible for heating the water to the desired temperature and also prevents overheating by turning off the necessary components. If problems with these functions occur, the temperature sensor in the washing machine needs to be replaced. This is a fairly simple DIY procedure.

Testing and changing the element

To test the temperature sensor, you need to disassemble the washing machine and remove the device from its housing. This is the only way to easily test it. In most cases, the temperature sensor is located directly under the laundry tub, making it easy to access. To remove the part, follow these steps:

• remove several bolts on the back cover of the washing machine and open it;
• Remove the wires connecting the sensor to the control board. To properly replace all wiring and instruments, it's best to photograph or label them.
• Carefully remove the thermistor, gently rocking it from side to side. Limescale can interfere with this process, but you can try removing it by injecting a small amount of dishwashing detergent into the gap with a syringe. The element will slide more easily with lubrication.

Once the device is removed, you need to test it with a multimeter and measure its resistance. To do this, follow these steps:

• Attach the probes to the contacts on the device. At a temperature of 20 degrees, the reading will be 6000 ohms;
• Place the element in hot water to warm it up. Remove it and repeat the measurements. Monitor the readings on the device. At 50 degrees Celsius, the sensor should read 1350 ohms.

If the readings differ from those listed above, the sensor is most likely faulty and should be replaced. The device cannot be repaired, so do not try to disassemble it. You should select a heat sensor that is suitable for your washing machine model and reinstall it.

Gas-filled sensor

To remove the freon sensor yourself, you'll need to remove the back cover of the machine and the front panel housing the control unit. This is the only way to access the component. Next, follow these steps:

• we find the wiring, which is located in the rear part of the case;
• carefully pull off the insulation;
• Using a thin spike, we pry up the seal that covers the copper tube and remove it;
• Lightly pressing on the base of the element, we remove it from the groove.
• There is a special hole made in the laundry tub through which you can take out the part and remove the wire from it.

After this, you can begin checking the device's functionality. The main cause of failure is a faulty freon tube. This leads to a gas leak, rendering the element inoperable. Traces of a leak can be detected during inspection.

If a problem is detected, the temperature sensor should be replaced with a new one equipped with a switch.

Bimetallic plate sensor

This type of sensor also requires easy access to the tank. After disassembling the machine, disconnect the wires from the thermostat and check the resistance with a tester. Then, warm up the sensor and observe any changes in the readings.

If the fluctuations are minor, the temperature sensor will need to be replaced. The most common cause of this type of failure is plate wear.

   

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