Whirlpool Washer Display Dimming During Spin Cycle:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The washer's main control unit (MCU) regulates power to various components, including the display and motor. The display requires a stable voltage to maintain brightness. When the motor starts, it draws a significant amount of current. If the power supply to the MCU is weak or if there are voltage drops in the wiring, the display will dim due to insufficient voltage.

Symptoms:

The Whirlpool washer display dims or flickers when the motor starts to spin during the wash or spin cycle. This may be accompanied by a slight reduction in motor speed or other unusual noises.

Possible Causes:

Weak or failing power supply within the washer's control board.
High inrush current draw from the motor during startup exceeding the power supply's capacity.
Loose or corroded wiring connections affecting voltage delivery to the display.
A failing motor creating excessive load on the electrical system.
Faulty capacitor on the motor.
Short circuit on the motor winding.

Solution:

1

Unplug the washer from the outlet.
2

Using a 1/4-inch nut driver, remove the back panel of the washer to access the main control board and motor.
3

Visually inspect the wiring harness connecting the control board to the motor for any signs of damage, burning, or corrosion. Repair or replace as needed.
4

Using a multimeter, test the voltage at the power supply input on the control board. It should read approximately 120V AC. If the voltage is significantly lower, check the outlet and breaker panel.
5

With the washer unplugged, use a multimeter to check the motor windings for shorts to ground. If a short is detected, the motor may need to be replaced.
6

Check the motor capacitor. If it's bulging or leaking, replace it.
7

If the voltage is correct and the wiring appears to be intact, the control board may be failing. Consider replacing the control board.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect the power supply to the washer before performing any repairs. Use Lock-Out Tag-Out procedures to prevent accidental energization. High voltage is present within the appliance, posing a risk of electrical shock.

Prevention:

Avoid overloading the washer with excessive laundry. Regularly inspect the wiring connections for tightness and corrosion. Periodically check the drain pump filter for obstructions to reduce strain on the motor.

Expert Tip:

Some Whirlpool washers have a diagnostic mode that can display error codes and voltage readings. To enter diagnostic mode, typically you press a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel (e.g., Power/Start/Power/Start). Refer to the service manual for your specific model for the correct sequence.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct resistance value I should see when testing the motor windings?

The resistance of the motor windings will vary depending on the motor's specifications. Consult the wiring diagram or technical sheet for your specific model. Generally, you should expect a low resistance value (a few ohms) between the windings and infinite resistance between the windings and the motor casing.

•How can I test the motor capacitor?

You can test the motor capacitor using a multimeter with a capacitance setting. Disconnect the capacitor from the circuit and set the multimeter to measure capacitance. The reading should be within the capacitor's specified tolerance range. A significant deviation or a reading of zero indicates a faulty capacitor. If you don’t have a capacitance meter, a visual inspection is helpful. A bulging or leaking capacitor is defective.

•Where can I find a replacement control board for my Whirlpool washer?

Replacement control boards can be purchased from authorized Whirlpool parts distributors, appliance parts retailers, and online marketplaces like AppliancePartsPros or RepairClinic. Be sure to verify the part number and compatibility with your washer's model number before ordering. Always buy OEM or high-quality replacement parts.

Whirlpool Washer Display Dimming During Spin Cycle: Causes and Solutions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct resistance value I should see when testing the motor windings?

•How can I test the motor capacitor?

•Where can I find a replacement control board for my Whirlpool washer?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: