January 01, 2016

How to replace the water temperature switch on a direct-drive top-load washer

How to replace the water temperature switch on a direct-drive top-load washer

This DIY washer repair guide explains how to replace the water temperature switch on a top-load washer. Located on the control panel, the water temperature switch lets you choose the water temperature for the wash and rinse cycles. If the switch fails, the water entering the tub is the wrong temperature. Replace a faulty water temperature switch using a manufacturer-approved washer part.

Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Roper, Crosley and Estate washers use the type of water temperature switch shown in this repair guide.

Quick links
Tools required
Phillips screwdriver
Slot screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Replacing a water temperature switch on a direct-drive top-load washer

This video explains how to replace the water temperature control switch on a direct-drive top-load washer.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

    Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

  2. 02.

    Remove the water temperature control knob

    Pull the water temperature control knob off the stem of the water temperature switch.

    PHOTO: Pull the water temperature control knob off the switch stem.

    PHOTO: Pull the water temperature control knob off the switch stem.

  3. 03.

    Open the control console

    Pull the plastic end caps off the sides of the control console.

    Remove the screws at the base of the control console.

    Pull the control console slightly forward and then swing it over the top of the back panel.

    Tip: Some Whirlpool models have screws on the back of the end caps instead of on the front of the control console; remove the screws. Other models have spring clips under the end caps; use a putty knife to release the spring clips.
    PHOTO: Remove the plastic endcaps from the control console.

    PHOTO: Remove the plastic endcaps from the control console.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws at the base of the control panel console.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws at the base of the control panel console.

    PHOTO: Flip the console up and back.

    PHOTO: Flip the console up and back.

  4. 04.

    Remove the water temperature switch

    Disconnect the wire harness from the water temperature switch.

    Pry up the locking tab and rotate the water temperature switch 1/8 turn to release it from the console panel.

    Pull the water temperature switch out of the console.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the wire harness from the water temperature switch.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the wire harness from the water temperature switch.

    PHOTO: Release the water temperature switch locking tab.

    PHOTO: Release the water temperature switch locking tab.

    PHOTO: Remove the temperature switch from the control panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the temperature switch from the control panel.

  5. 05.

    Install the new water temperature switch

    Position the new water temperature switch on the console panel with the locking tab positioned 1/8 turn from the top.

    Push the temperature switch into the console panel and rotate the locking tab to the 12 o'clock position to lock the tab.

    Connect the wire harness to the new water temperature switch.

    PHOTO: Connect the wire harness to the new water temperature switch.

    PHOTO: Connect the wire harness to the new water temperature switch.

  6. 06.

    Reinstall the control console

    Position the control console on the top panel of the washer.

    Reinstall the mounting screws at the base of the control console.

    Snap the plastic end caps onto the sides of the control console.

    PHOTO: Close the console.

    PHOTO: Close the console.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the control console screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the control console screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the plastic endcaps.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the plastic endcaps.

  7. 07.

    Reinstall the water temperature control knob

    Line up the flat side of the water temperature control knob with the flat side of the shaft on the new water temperature switch.

    Push the water temperature control knob down onto the temperature switch shaft.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the water temperature control knob.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the water temperature control knob.

  8. 08.

    Restore the power

    Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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