A lot of electronics are hidden in the body of the washing machine: all kinds of sensors, blocks, modules, control devices, protection devices. The coordinated operation of all components and assemblies is ensured by the control board of the washing machine. This is the brain of the machine; it assembles disparate automation components into a single whole and controls them.
Purpose and design of the control board
The control module controls the operation of all components of the washing machine. It ensures timely switching on and off of each of them, thereby controlling the washing process. All data collected from the sensors flows into the control module. Guided by the selected program, it regulates the drum speed and ensures that the water is heated to the required temperature. The slightest malfunction of the module entails a deterioration in the quality of the device as a whole; a serious breakdown can lead to the machine simply not turning on.
The control unit performs the following main functions:
- controls the amount and temperature of water;
- sets the operating mode of the electric motor;
- controls all machine components depending on the specified program;
- controls inlet water pressure and controls the inlet valve;
- performs the locking function.
Structurally, the control module consists of two parts. This is the washing machine control board and display board. Sensors and actuators are connected using chips or contact pads.
Reasons for module failure
There are many factors that affect the longevity of the washing machine control module. Some of them lead to breakdowns that are easy to fix; others cannot be fixed without calling a specialist.
Manufacturing defects
Quite a rare problem, especially among famous manufacturers. Defects can be expressed in anything, in poor soldering of parts, a broken track on the board, low-quality radio components. In the vast majority of cases, the defect “pops up” in the very first weeks of operation. The solution to the problem is to return the device under warranty.
Supply voltage parameters mismatch
Power surges in the network are quite common. A strong surge can lead to the failure of any electronic device, including the control module board. Most often, service workshops do not consider this case to be covered by warranty, so it is easier to protect yourself from such trouble in advance by connecting the machine through a voltage stabilizer.
Failure of one or more sensors
Actually, this malfunction does not relate to the control board of the washing machine. To fix this problem, it is enough to identify the faulty sensor and replace it.
Short circuit caused by water entering the module
A washing machine cannot operate without water, and water is not the best companion for electricity. Even a small amount of moisture getting on the board can cause it to fail. Most manufacturers try to protect the buyer from such a nuisance by sealing the units hermetically and installing protection against accidental short circuits. But no one is immune from this. Water may enter the module after repairs or during transport of the machine.
In addition to the above, the cause of poor operation of the module may be carbon deposits formed on the connecting contacts or their contamination. Rodents that are smart enough to get inside the device can also cause a lot of trouble. In any case, it’s worth starting the check by inspecting the control module board, cleaning it of dirt, washing the contacts, and making sure the wiring is intact.
Checking the control module
Even the most expensive and high-quality washing machine can break down. Any unit can fail, including the control unit. If the machine stops working normally, the first thing you need to do is determine the reason, understand which unit has failed.
Failure of the control module board can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms.
- The machine indicators freeze while the program is running. The control panel does not respond to user actions. The display does not show any error messages.
- The control panel lights flash randomly. It is not possible to enable any program.
- It is possible to select and start a washing program, but the device does not draw water or draws it in and drains it at the same time.At the same time, there is also no reaction to the user’s actions; only a “reboot” helps.
- Having started the washing program, the machine does not switch operating modes and, if there is no user response, it can wash for hours without trying to drain the water.
- Immediately after turning on, the device turns off spontaneously.
- The indication reports that the washing process is normal, it appears that modes are switching, but nothing happens, the machine does not fill with water, and the engine does not work.
- Spontaneous change in the speed and direction of rotation of the engine. The nature of its operation changes regardless of the program; in a special case, the engine rotates without stopping and in one direction.
Another evidence in favor of a faulty washing machine control board is the discrepancy between the water temperature and the parameters of the selected program. The heating element either overheats it too much or simply does not turn on.
Automatic machine testing
Most automatic washing machines produced by well-known manufacturers have a functionality check function - autotest. This procedure allows you to obtain accurate data about the system and, based on the results obtained, make a decision about the need for repairs.
The procedure for starting the automatic test program depends on the specific model. You should carefully study the instructions; the sequence of actions will be indicated there. For example, the autotest of the Ardo washing machine is launched as follows:
- The programmer arrow rotates and is positioned vertically down;
- the temperature is set to zero;
- All control panel buttons are pressed.
It is important not to forget that during testing the drum must be empty; before the test begins, you must remove the laundry, if necessary, scoop out and soak the water with a rag.
The result of the automatic testing program will be an error code that will clearly indicate the cause of the failure. True, in the event of a malfunction of the control module board, the autotest will not always be able to work correctly, which can also be considered an indirect confirmation of the failure of the board.
Call the master
Failure of the control board is a serious malfunction; correcting it will require knowledge and ability to handle electrical circuit components. Before undertaking independent repairs, you should think about whether you have enough qualifications for such work. In case of the slightest doubt, it would be right to turn to specialists.
You can often hear advice - remove the board and take it to a workshop, where they will test and repair it. This is not the best solution. If you decide to contact a mechanic, he should inspect the washing mashine completely; the right thing to do would be to take the washing mashine to a service center or call a technician to your home.
The washing mashine should be taken to the workshop even if it is under warranty. It is worth understanding that any intervention in its circuit will cost the warranty, which means you will have to pay for repairs.
Replacing the entire board yourself
If it is definitely established that the cause of the malfunction lies in the control module of the washing machine and there is a replacement at hand, even a novice repairman can handle the job. Selecting a suitable unit is quite simple; each board has markings that allow it to be clearly identified.It is worth noting that most manufacturers use the same type of units on different machines. They differ in designations, but are completely functionally replaceable. For example, the Indesit W105TX, WISL82 modules are absolutely identical.
Since the control board of the washing machine is one of the main parts of the machine, its selection and purchase should be taken very seriously. You should buy only from trusted sellers, ask for a guarantee.
The procedure for replacing the module depends on the model and brand of the washing machine. Before starting work, you should familiarize yourself with the recommendations for disassembling a specific model, it is better to watch a video.
The repair procedure in this case is to remove the old module, disconnect all cables and conductors, connect a new one. After that, all that remains is to assemble the machine.
Self-replacement of radio components
If you have the knowledge and ability to work with a soldering iron, you can try to repair the faulty module. To achieve the desired result, a diagram will come in handy. Some manufacturers do not consider it necessary to make it easier for users to repair their products, but this is not scary, any diagram of any module can be easily found on the Internet. Before starting work, you should remove the board, clean it from dust and examine it carefully, preferably under a magnifying glass. Some faults, such as a burnt-out resistor, are much easier to detect visually than with a device.
Replacing capacitors
Electrolytic capacitors are used in the circuits of electrical filters. Quite often they "dry out", becoming dielectrics. The second common failure is swelling. In any case, it should be replaced. It is not difficult to buy a new one, guided by the markings on the case.It is worth noting that most manufacturers use the same type of blocks on different machines. They differ in designation, but are fully functionally interchangeable. For example, the Indesit W105TX, WISL82 modules are completely identical.
Since the control board of a washing machine is one of the main parts of the machine, its selection and purchase should be taken very seriously. You need to buy only from trusted sellers and ask for a guarantee.
The procedure for replacing the module depends on the model and brand of the washing machine. Before starting work, you should familiarize yourself with the recommendations for disassembling a specific model, it is better to watch the video.
The repair procedure in this case is to remove the old module, disconnect all cables and conductors, and connect a new one. After that, all that remains is to assemble the washing mashine.
Independent replacement of radio components
If you have the knowledge and ability to work with a soldering iron, you can try to repair the faulty module. To achieve the desired result, a diagram will be useful. Some manufacturers do not consider it necessary to make it easier for users to repair their products, but this is not a problem; any diagram of any module can be easily found on the Internet.
