The refrigerator control board regulates essential functions like temperatures, defrost cycles, and compressor operations. A faulty or failing board can cause appliance issues that affect food safety and costs. Replacing this crucial component requires careful planning and following safety precautions to avoid potential hazards when working inside refrigerators.
Tools Needed
Do you ever wonder what tools are needed to replace the refrigerator temperature control board? This section will go over each tool in an easy-to-understand way.
1/4-inch nut driver
A nut driver is an important tool used to tighten and loosen nuts during the replacement process. Nuts are used to hold parts like panels and covers in place. A 1/4-inch nut driver is the perfect size for most refrigerator nuts. Do you have one in your toolbox already?
Phillips screwdriver
Most screws found inside refrigerators are Phillips head screws. They have a cross-shaped tip that fits perfectly into a screwdriver for turning. Make sure to get a Phillips screwdriver in good condition without stripped or dull tips. A screwdriver with an extended shaft might come in handy for hard-to-reach screws as well.
Flathead screwdriver
While rare, some refrigerators use flathead screws too. These have a flat, blade-like tip for turning. A flathead screwdriver is handy to keep in your toolkit, just in case. The tip should be thin enough to fit into tight spaces if needed.
Standard (SAE) and metric wrench sets
Some refrigerators need adjustable wrenches of different sizes for removing parts. Wrench sets allow you to try different sizes until you find the right fit. SAE wrenches are used for standard inch-size bolts, and metric wrenches work on bolt sizes listed in millimeters. Do you have the two most common wrench set types?
Towel
No, a towel is not used for any repairs! It’s actually there to protect your refrigerator and surrounding areas. Place the towel underneath where you will be working in case any small parts or drips happen to fall. Clean-up is easier this way, too.
Work gloves
Working inside an appliance can involve grime and sharp edges that work gloves protect against. Leather gloves allow for dexterity while shielding hands. They keep you safe from dirt, debris, and any exposed wires, too. Safety first!
Replacement Procedure
Now that we’ve covered the necessary tools, it’s time to learn the step-by-step replacement process. Paying close attention to detail will help ensure the job gets done right. Follow along as we go through each step together.
1. Power and Water Shutdown
The first thing to do is turn off the power to the refrigerator by flipping the circuit breaker switch. We also need to shut off the water supply line coming into the fridge. This is for our safety since we’ll be disconnecting it later. Do you remember both steps?
2. Detach the Water Supply Line
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the water line fitting where it connects to the back of the fridge. It may feel tight, so try moving the wrench back and forth until it’s free. Keep a towel handy to catch any leftover water droplets.
3. Remove the Rear Panel
Locate and remove all screws attaching to the rear panel using a Phillips screwdriver. Gently swing the panel outward and set it aside. Be careful not to scratch the appliance.
4. Take Off the Housing Cover
Inside you’ll find more screws attaching an inner cover. Carefully unscrew them and lift off the cover plate to fully expose the fridge interior.
5. Unplug the Wires
Use a diagram or photo from your manual to identify all the wires plugged into the old board. Make notes on where each plugs in, or take a picture for reference. Then, unplug them one by one.
6. Extract the Control Board
The board should now be removable. Double-check for any retainers holding it in place. Carefully pull it straight out once fully detached.
7. Install the New Control Board
Now comes the fun part – installing the new board! Carefully line it up into the space where the old one came out. Make sure it is fully seated before proceeding. You don’t want it coming loose later.
8. Reattach the Wires
Refer back to your notes on where each wire plugged into the old board. Reconnect them to the corresponding spots on the new control board one by one. Push firmly so the connections are secure.
9. Replace the Covers
Return the housing cover and rear panel to their proper positions. Reinsert all screws securely so everything fits tightly back into place. Don’t over-tighten, as that could strip the screw holes.
10. Reconnect the Water Supply Line
Take the water line fitting and hand tighten it back onto the fitting at the rear of the fridge. Make sure it’s on straight and not cross-threaded. You don’t want any leaks!
11. Restore Power and Water
Finally, restore the power at the circuit breaker and turn your water shutoff back on. Watch for any drips or leaks as the system repressurizes. Cross your fingers that everything is working properly with the new board installed!
Safety Precautions
Now that we’ve gone through the replacement steps let’s review some safety tips to protect yourself while working. Taking proper precautions will help prevent any accidents or injuries.
Proper storage of perishable Items Before Repair
If your fridge will be unplugged, perishable foods like meat and dairy need to be moved to a cooler or another fridge. This keeps them fresh until the job is done. Don’t forget to mark your cooler so the family doesn’t eat food meant for storage!
Disconnecting Power and Water Supply
We already covered shutting off power and water as step one. But it’s important not just for our safety but to protect the new board, too! Static electricity could damage electronic parts, so no power is best. Water shouldn’t be running if supply lines are disconnected, either.
Grounding Oneself to Avoid Static Damage to the New Board
Have you ever felt a tiny shock from static electricity after walking on a carpet? Static can build up on our bodies without us realizing it. Before handling the new board, touch something metal like a fridge or sink handle to discharge any static from your body safely to the ground. This helps prevent shocking new parts.
Safety doesn’t need to be scary. By planning ahead and taking simple precautions, the job can be completed with no worries. Remember to stay calm and focused and ask for help if needed. Safety is more important than rushing any step.
Also watch this video: How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Electronic Control Board WPW10503278
Conclusion
Now that you’ve finished replacing your refrigerator’s control board, it’s time to wrap things up. Let’s review the key lessons and next steps.
The most important thing is safety – for yourself and your new board. By carefully following precautions, you can complete repairs safely. Always disconnect power sources, ground static electricity, and take care working with wires.
Proper planning makes a big difference, too. Gathering the right tools, reading instructions fully, and having replacement parts ready avoids surprises. Taking your time with each step also helps tasks go smoothly.
Control board replacements can feel tricky if it’s your first time. But as you’ve seen, breaking the process into clear sections simplifies everything. With patience and focus, even novice do-it-yourselfers can succeed!
The best way to conclude a repair is by testing everything. Give your fridge a test run by allowing the freezer to chill overnight. Check for proper cooling and that ice is being made. Also, look out for water leaks when lines are reconnected.
Fixing appliances yourself saves money versus a service call. It also feels great to solve problems independently.