A washing machine timer is a crucial component that controls the different cycles of the washer, including washing, rinsing, and spinning. When the timer malfunctions, it can cause the machine to get stuck on one cycle. Replacing or repairing the timer yourself can save you money on repair costs. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on troubleshooting, maintaining, and replacing a faulty washing machine timer.
How a Washing Machine Timer Works
The timer controls the operation and timing of the various cycles and is considered the “brain” of a washing machine. Here is a quick overview of how it works:
- It is connected to a control board and power supply, which provide electricity to run the timer motor and switch power to the other components like the pump, motor, valves, etc.
- Inside the timer is a gear mechanism connected to a dial on the outside which allows you to select your desired cycle.
- As the motor turns, it rotates the gears and activates/deactivates switches on a cam to operate the various cycles and provide power to components at specific times.
- Most washers have an electromechanical timer, while newer models have an electronic timer control board that is digital.
Troubleshooting a Faulty Washer Timer
If your washer gets stuck on one cycle and won’t advance, the issue likely lies with a malfunctioning timer. Here are the steps to troubleshoot:
1. Inspect Timer Dial, Knob, and Housing
Carefully examine the timer dial, knob, and outer housing for any visible damage like cracks or broken parts. Spins the knob manually to check if the timer is stuck.
2. Check Continuity with a Multi-meter
Test the continuity of the various timer switches using a multimeter. Set the meter to the audible continuity setting.
To test:
- Unplug the washer
- Remove the top panel to access the timer
- Attach the multi-meter probes to pairs of contacts on the timer switches
- Turn the dial and check for continuity at the different switch positions
If certain switches don’t make a sound, it indicates a lack of continuity, meaning the timer is defective.
3. Ensure Proper Voltage to the Timer
Using a multimeter, check if the correct high and low voltages are being supplied to the timer motor during cycle changes. If the voltage is abnormal, there may be a separate underlying issue.
4. Inspect Wires and Terminals
Examine the timer wires and terminals for any loose, disconnected, or burnt wires that can prevent the timer motor from advancing.
5. Test Timer Motor
Test the timer motor for continuity using a multimeter. If no continuity, the motor is faulty, and the mechanical timer will need replacement.
6. Check Water Level Control
Rule out a bad water level/pressure switch that may hinder the timer. Test with a multi-meter and ensure the proper ohms readings.
7. Inspect Pump and Lid Switch
A malfunctioning drain pump and lid switch can also prevent the timer from advancing properly in certain cycles. Test them separately with a multi-meter to determine if they are defective.
Read More: Washing Machine Won’t Drain: Top 6 Problems and Fixes for Top-Loading and Side-Loading Washers
Routine Washer Timer Maintenance
Performing consistent maintenance checks and cleaning can prolong the life of your mechanical or electronic timer:
- Clean the Timer: Use compressed air to spray out any dust, dirt, or detergent buildup on the timer. Be careful not to bend any delicate parts. Wet a toothbrush to scrub any residue on the dial/housing.
- Inspect Wires & Terminals: Check timer wires and terminals periodically for secure connections. Re-solder any loose connections. Faulty connections can hinder the power supply.
- Check Timer Parts: Inspect timer components like gears, switches, and contacts for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any defective-looking parts. Lubricate gears as needed.
- Test Motor Functionality: Use a multi-meter annually to check that the motor windings still have continuity. Motor failure is common.
- Prevent Water Damage: Take care to keep water and moisture away from the timer to prevent corrosion/shorts. Dry leaks quickly. Never spray water directly on a timer.
How to Replace a Faulty Mechanical Washer Timer
When troubleshooting proves the timer or its motor is defective, replacement is required. Follow these detailed steps:
Gather Required Materials
- Replacement mechanical timer kit with dial & knob
- Washing machine service manual
- Hand gloves
- Safety goggles
- Flashlight
- Assorted wrenches
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Needle nose pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Multi-meter
- Rag & bucket
Turn the Power & Water Supply Off
Before disassembling the washer, be sure to:
- Unplug the machine from the wall outlet
- Turn off the hot/cold water lines behind the washer
Accessing the Timer
With power disconnected:
- Remove the top panel – Usually, only a few screws hold it in place
- The timer is mounted to the back of the console panel
- Carefully tilt the console panel forward to access the wiring in the back
- Inspect wires and terminals before touching the timer
Disconnect Wires & Fasteners
- Disconnect wire harness plugs attached to timer terminals
- Label wires to ensure proper reconnection later
- Cut any plastic wire ties bundling wires together
- Remove mounting screws attaching a mechanical timer to panel
Remove Mechanical Timer
- Carefully maneuver the old timer mechanism out from the console panel
- Make note of the timer’s original orientation to install the new one properly
Install a New Mechanical Timer
- Match terminal connections on a new timer to the old one
- Guide new timer into console panel oriented the same way
- Attach mounting screws to fasten in place
- Reconnect wire harness plugs to appropriate timer terminals
Reassemble Washer
- Secure any loose wires with plastic wire ties
- Reattach the console panel to the washer frame
- Verify all screws and fasteners are tightened
- Reconnect washer to electrical outlet and water lines
Test Operation
- Confirm timer knob rotates smoothly through all cycles
- Start a wash cycle and verify timer advances properly
- Ensure it stops on the final cycle once the test cycle completes
Replacing a mechanical timer requires attention to detail since all the wiring must be handled carefully and reconnected properly. Always reference your model’s specific service manual.
Troubleshooting an Electronic Timer Control Board
Newer model washers have an electronic timer control board instead of a mechanical timer. Here’s how to test:
Inspect Board and Connections
- Remove the console panel to access the electronic board
- Check the board for any burnt components or loose connections
- Ensure the wire harness plug is securely attached to the socket
Check Power to Control Board
- Unplug the washer and disconnect the wire harness from the board
- Turn the machine back on for testing purposes only
- Use a multimeter to check 120V at the wire harness connector
- If there is no power, test the console wiring harness for breaks
Test Voltages on Board
- Reconnect wire harness to board
- Power on the machine and select a Wash cycle with a multi-meter attached
- Check for 120V at the timer motor terminal during cycle changes
- Monitor voltage fluctuations as it advances through wash stages
NOTE: Refer to the service guide for your model-specific voltage values
Bypass Console Electronic Board
A way to pinpoint if the electronic timer board is faulty is to bypass it completely. This involves disconnecting multiple components and is very complex. Only attempt if you’re highly skilled with electrical circuits.
Reset Control Board
Resetting the electronic control board can possibly clear any glitches if it’s still functioning overall:
- Unplug the washer for 1 minute (reset control)
- Plug back in and see if the timer works properly
If the timer still fails, then replacing the electronic control board is needed, as troubleshooting proves it’s defective.
Replace Electronic Timer Control Board
- Order replacement electronic control board
- Turn off power and water supply lines
- Remove top panel
- Detach wire harness plug
- Remove mounting screws and old control board
- Install replacement matching screw holes
- Reattach wire harness connector
- Reassemble the washer panel and test the operation
Be extremely careful handling the new electronic control board as they can be very sensitive to electrical discharge.
Common Washer Timer Issues
Here are some typical problems you may encounter with a washing machine timer:
Timer dial/knob broken
- Impact or dropping can crack a dial/knob
- Replace the broken part. Some models require a completely new timer
Timer humming/squealing
- Worn timer motor bearings
- Replace the mechanical timer assembly
Timer advances too quickly
- Defective gear train
- Timer assembly requires replacement
Timer doesn’t advance automatically
- It could be various failed parts – switches, motor, bad connections
- Thorough testing is needed to determine the root problem
Timer jumps cycle stages randomly
- Dirty timer contacts
- Clean contacts. It may also indicate part of the cam mechanism is worn down
Water overflowing tub
- Stuck open water valve due to timer
- Replace the complete timer assembly
Preventing Washer Timer Damage
Follow these tips to help keep your washer timer functioning properly for years:
- Select the correct wash cycle times for your laundry load size to prevent timer strain
- Don’t cram oversized loads to hamper the timer dial rotating smoothly
- Avoid exposing the timer to any water leaks that can short-circuit
- Keep the top panel area clean and dry to prevent wire corrosion
- Periodically inspect wires, harnesses & terminals for secure connections
- Consider adding a protective rubber boot onto the timer knob to prevent impact cracks & water seeping underneath the timer dial
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide gives you a deeper understanding of how to properly troubleshoot, maintain, and replace faulty washing machine timers, whether mechanical or electronic.
For safety, be sure to always disconnect power before attempting any repairs. Following detailed instructions as provided here for your specific model can help guarantee success.
Investing some periodic preventative maintenance into the timer can help extend its lifespan significantly as well. But generally these parts may need replacing every 5-10 years, depending on usage levels.