Bad Control Board? What It Means and How to Fix It
If your washing machine won’t spin, your oven won’t heat, or your fridge makes weird noises, the culprit could be a bad control board. The control board is the brain of the appliance – it tells motors, heaters, and sensors what to do. When it goes wrong, the whole machine can act up.
Most homeowners think a broken control board means a brand‑new appliance, but that’s not always true. Often a simple component failure or a power surge can fry the board. The good news? You can often test, repair, or replace it yourself, saving a call‑out fee.
Common Signs Your Control Board Is Gone Bad
Here are the red flags to watch for:
Display shows error codes that don’t match the problem.
Appliance turns on but never completes a cycle.
Random power offs or on‑offs during use.
Burnt smell or visible scorch marks on the board.
Buttons or knobs are unresponsive.
If you notice any of these, unplug the appliance and open the panel to inspect the board. Look for cracked solder joints, swollen capacitors, or discolored parts – those are classic signs of damage.
Fixing or Replacing a Bad Control Board
First, decide whether you want to repair or replace. Minor issues like a loose connector can be fixed with a screwdriver and a bit of patience. Tighten any loose wires and reseat the board. If you see blown fuses or damaged components, you’ll likely need a new board.
To replace:
Turn off power at the mains – safety first.
Take a photo of the wiring layout. It makes re‑installing easier.
Unscrew the board and disconnect the wiring harnesses.
Match the new board’s model number with your appliance’s make.
Mount the new board, reconnect the wires, and secure it with screws.
Restore power and run a test cycle.
Most control boards cost between £80 and £200, depending on the brand and appliance type. A professional install can add £50‑£100, but if you’re comfortable with basic tools, you can do it yourself.
After the fix, run the appliance through a full cycle to make sure everything works. If the problem persists, there might be an underlying issue with the motor, sensor, or wiring that also needs attention.
At Northampton Appliance Repairs Services, we’ve seen countless bad control boards. Our technicians can quickly diagnose the fault and advise whether repair or replacement makes sense for your budget. Give us a call if you’re unsure – a short call can save you hours of trial and error.
Remember, a bad control board doesn’t always mean the end of your appliance. With the right tools and a bit of know‑how, you can get your washer, oven, or fridge back in action without breaking the bank.
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