Imagine that your brain suddenly becomes defective. What happens to the whole body? You lack coordination and your overall actions become erratic. This is what happens to the Whirlpool refrigerator when the control board becomes faulty.
Issues of your refrigerator not cooling or freezing, your ice maker or water dispenser not working, and all other defects in your Whirlpool refrigerator result from the malfunction of the control board. This can be so frustrating considering the cost of replacing control boards. And the stress involved!
In this article, I will explain some common problems with Whirlpool refrigerator control boards and provide troubleshooting tips to resolve them.
What Is The Function Of A Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board?
The control board is generally the brain of the refrigerator and controls its overall function. It receives signals from the control panel and activates all the units in the refrigerator.
Your ability to control the settings of your refrigerator lies in the control board. If it fails, your control buttons won’t work and your refrigerator will stop functioning the way you want.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board Problems And Troubleshooting
The common problems with the control board are no power or blank display issues, temperature control problems, unresponsive controls, or error codes. Let’s dive into the details!
No Power or Blank Display Issues
If your Whirlpool refrigerator does not power on or the control panel display is blank, then there may be a problem with the control board
Solutions
- Check the power supply
Ensure that the refrigerator is properly plugged into a functioning power outlet. Test the outlet with another device to verify it’s functioning well.
- Reset the control board
Unplug the refrigerator from the power source for a few minutes and then plug it back in. This action can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor electrical glitches.
- Check the control board for damage
Examine the control board for any visible signs of damage, such as burn marks or loose connections. If you notice any issues, contact a professional technician to assess and repair the control board.
Temperature Control Problems
Temperature fluctuations or inaccurate readings are common issues with refrigerator control boards. Control boards rely on temperature sensors to assess the internal temperature of the refrigerator.
If a sensor becomes faulty or gets covered with ice, it may not provide accurate readings. As a result, the control board may wrongly adjust the cooling components, leading to temperature fluctuations.
Solutions
- Check the thermostat settings
Ensure that the temperature settings of the
The Whirlpool refrigerator is properly configured. Adjust the settings as needed and monitor the unit for any improvements.
- Clean the condenser coils
Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils, and prevent the refrigerator from cooling properly. Clean the coils using a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to enhance cooling performance.
- Test the temperature sensors
The control board relies on temperature sensors to monitor and regulate the internal temperature. If the sensors are faulty, inaccurate readings may occur. Consult the refrigerator’s user manual for guidance on how to test the sensors.
- Replace the thermostat
If the thermostat is faulty after testing with a multimeter, you need to replace it with a new one.
- Test and Replace Control Board
If other troubleshooting steps have been exhausted, you may have to test the control board for continuity using a multimeter. If there is no continuity, replace the control board.
- Consult a professional technician
Handling issues with the control board can be quite complicated. I advise you to contact a professional to avoid further damage or harm.
Unresponsive Controls or Error Codes:
If the control panel buttons are unresponsive or error codes are displayed, it may be a sign that the control board is defective.
Solutions
- Power cycle the refrigerator
Just like a computer or smartphone, a simple power cycle can resolve many glitches. Unplug the refrigerator, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in.
- Reset the control board
Some Whirlpool refrigerators have a reset button on the control panel. Pressing this button can reset the control board and clear any error codes. Consult the user manual to locate the reset button for your specific model.
- Contact Whirlpool customer support
If the issue persists, it is recommended to contact Whirlpool customer support or schedule a service appointment with a qualified technician. They will provide further guidance or help you fix the problem.
- Consult your user manual
Remember, troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the specific model of your Whirlpool refrigerator. Always check the user manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
FAQS
How Do I Know That My Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board Is Bad?
To know whether the control and display board is faulty, attempt pressing the buttons on the control panel. If certain buttons function properly while others do not, the control and display board may require replacement.
How Do I Replace A Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board?
Begin by removing the panel that covers the control board. Next, carefully disconnect all the electrical connectors and wire reins that are connected to the board. This will enable you to remove the board from its compartment. After removing the old board, position the new control board in its place and fix the connectors in the same manner as before.
Is it Possible to Repair a Whirlpool Refridgerator Control Board?
Yes! It’s possible to repair a Whirlpool refrigerator control board that has been damaged or become faulty. Nevertheless, you should go for a replacement. Replacing the board with a new one is quicker and reduces the chances of future damage. A repaired control board can easily spoil again!
Conclusion
Control board issues can disrupt the normal functioning of your Whirlpool refrigerator. By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide, you can address these common problems and restore the normal functioning of your fridge. However, if the issues persist or if you are uncomfortable performing complex repairs, it is best to seek assistance from a trained professional.