Why Is My Washer Control Panel Not Working?
John Turpin is our resident home service repair expert here at Service Direct. He’s got the knowledge and experience to help homeowners like you make sense of most home repair issues. And with Service Direct, we connect you with top-tier service professionals to help with any repairs needed.
Find Out Why Your Washer Control Panel Is Not Working
The washing machine is an essential household appliance. Thanks to this invention, it’s easier to do the laundry, saving you time and effort. It can also save you money by not washing your clothes in a laundromat. Given the usefulness of washing machines, it’s unsurprising that you feel frustrated when your washer stops working.
A washer control panel not working is one common issue with this particular appliance. When the control panel is unresponsive or not working as expected, it prevents you from starting or completing a washing cycle. There are several possible causes of a washer control issue, which you can find out in the rest of this article.
Common Reasons Behind Faulty Washer Control Panels
Power Supply Issues
A washer control panel not working could be due to power supply issues. Are you sure the washing machine is properly plugged into an electrical outlet? And if it is, does it actually have power? The circuit breaker might have accidentally tripped. If the washer isn’t receiving power, then the control panel will not work.
Faulty Buttons
Why is the washing machine control panel not working? It might be because of faulty buttons. Over time, the buttons on the control panel stop functioning properly due to wear and tear. If one or more buttons of your washer control panel are not working, replacing the faulty button or button membrane may be necessary.
Moisture Damage
Moisture damage to the washing machine control panel happens when water or excessive moisture enters the control panel area. It can damage the circuitry inside, causing short circuits or corrosion. This can result in a malfunctioning control panel or lead to the washing machine stopping altogether.
Loose or Damaged Wiring
The control panel is connected to the washer’s internal components through wiring. If the wiring is loose or damaged, then there’s no way for the control panel to work properly. Inspect the machine’s wiring and connections to ensure they are undamaged and secure. If you find the wiring is damaged, you can seek the assistance of a professional appliance technician.
Faulty Control Board
The control board is the electronic component of a washing machine that controls the various factors of the appliance. A faulty control board could answer your question, “Why is my washing machine not turning on?” In most cases, the solution for this issue is simply to replace the control board.
Control Panel Lock
If your washer control panel is not working, it might be because of a locked control panel. Some washers have a control panel lock feature, disabling the control panel to prevent accidental use. If it’s locked, it won’t respond to user input until it’s unlocked. Read the user manual thoroughly to understand how this feature works and ensure it isn’t toggled accidentally.
Faulty User Interface Board
The user interface board is responsible for receiving input from the user and communicating with the control board. When the circuit board that controls the user interface and display is not functioning correctly, it can cause the control panel to malfunction, such as not responding to user input. Replacing the user interface board may be necessary for this issue.
Software Glitches
Modern washers with computerized control systems may be susceptible to software glitches or errors. This happens when the software controlling the washer’s user interface and display malfunctions, causing issues like the machine not starting, displaying incorrect information, or behaving erratically. Fix this problem by resetting the washer or performing a software update.
Bad Display
A bad display is also a possible reason why a washer control panel is not working properly. The display is an essential component of the machine, allowing the user to select the appropriate settings for the laundry load. If the display is not working correctly, such as flickering or displaying incorrect information, you won’t be able to use the control panel well.
Electrical Surges
Electrical surges or power outages can cause damage to the washer’s internal components, including the control panel. If you suspect an electrical surge has occurred, try unplugging the washer for a few minutes and then plugging it back in, which should reset the machine. If the control panel still doesn’t work, it may be necessary to replace damaged components.
Our resident home repair guru, John Turpin, discussed some common reasons why your washer control panel isn’t working, offering some DIY tips and solutions to fix it.
How to Troubleshoot an Unresponsive Washing Machine Control Panel
Is your washing machine control panel not working? Try the following troubleshooting steps to see if it can fix the problem:
1. Check the Power Supply
Ensure the washing machine is properly plugged into an electrical outlet and the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. You can check the power outlet with another appliance to make sure it’s working properly and that it’s not why the control panel won’t work.
2. Verify the Control Panel Is Not Locked
As we mentioned, some washers have a control panel lock. Make sure that it isn’t enabled, and if you want, you can disable the feature to prevent accidental use. Check the user manual to see if your washer has a control panel lock and how to unlock it.
3. Inspect the Wiring
The control panel connects to the washer’s internal components through wiring. Make sure that connections and wiring are secure and undamaged by routinely inspecting them. You can do so by removing the top or back panel of the machine, which gives you access inside.
4. Check for Moisture Damage
If moisture gets inside the control panel, it can damage the circuitry. Avoid this by ensuring you don’t spill on the control panel. Keep it dry at all times, and use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels if the washer is in a damp or humid area.
5. Restart the Washing Machine
Sometimes, simply restarting the washer can fix an unresponsive or malfunctioning control panel. Do so by turning off the machine, unplugging it for a few minutes, and then plugging it back in. This resets the control board and fixes temporary glitches.
6. Perform a Control Board Reset
Some washing machines have a reset function. It can help fix an unresponsive control panel simply with a press of a button. Check the user manual for instructions on how to perform the reset. Sometimes, this may involve a specific combination of buttons or a special reset mode.
7. Call a Professional Technician
If none of the above steps work, you may have to contact a professional technician. The technician may be able to repair the problem or may need to replace a faulty component. Either way, they’re the best solution to a washer control panel not working.
How do I know if my washer’s control panel is broken?
A broken control panel won’t respond to any user input. Also, a washer with a faulty control panel will not start or complete cycles. You might also see error codes on the control panel or hear unusual noises from the washing machine. You should call a qualified technician to check and repair your washer when you notice these signs.
Can I repair or replace a washing machine control panel myself?
Repairing or replacing a washing machine control panel can be complex and challenging, depending on the model and brand. It’s best to consult the user manual or contact a professional to avoid causing further damage to your washing machine.
Is it safe to use a washer with a faulty control panel?
It’s not recommended to use a washing machine with a faulty control panel. Doing so can pose safety hazards or cause further damage to the appliance. Stop using the machine for now and troubleshoot the issue, or seek professional assistance to fix the problem.
How much does it cost to repair a washing machine control panel?
The cost of repairing a washing machine control panel varies based on the model, brand, and extent of damage. You can expect it to range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. It’s best to consult a professional appliance technician for an accurate estimate.
Hire a Local Appliance Repair Expert
If you are unsure of how to diagnose or fix the issue with your washer control panel, it’s recommended to consult the user manual or contact a professional appliance repair technician. A pro has the expertise, skills, and tools to find what’s causing the control panel to malfunction and fix it correctly and safely the first time.