Say Goodbye To Dishwasher Disasters: Learn How To Test Frigidaire Control Board Effectively

If your Frigidaire dishwasher is malfunctioning, one of the potential culprits could be a faulty control board. Testing the control board is crucial to determine if it’s the root cause of your dishwasher’s problems. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step process to help you test the control board effectively.

Gather Your Tools

Before you begin testing, gather the following tools:

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Multimeter
• Electrical tape or wire nuts

Safety Precautions

Before performing any electrical testing, ensure you take the following safety precautions:

• Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
• Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.

Step 1: Locate the Control Board

The control board is typically located inside the dishwasher’s door panel. To access it:

• Open the dishwasher door.
• Remove the screws holding the door panel in place.
• Carefully lift the door panel away from the dishwasher.
• Locate the control board, which is usually a large circuit board with wires and connectors attached.

Step 2: Inspect the Control Board

Visually inspect the control board for any signs of damage, such as:

• Burn marks
• Cracked or broken components
• Loose connections

If you notice any damage, it’s likely time to replace the control board.

Step 3: Test the Voltage

Using a multimeter, test the voltage at the following points on the control board:

• Power input terminals: These terminals receive power from the power cord.
• Output terminals: These terminals send power to the dishwasher’s components.

The voltage should be within the specified range for your dishwasher model. If the voltage is significantly different, the control board may be faulty.

Step 4: Test the Continuity

Using a multimeter, test the continuity of the following components on the control board:

• Power input terminals: These terminals should have continuity with the power cord.
• Output terminals: These terminals should have continuity with the dishwasher’s components.
• Switch contacts: The switch contacts should have continuity when the switch is closed.

If any of the components fail the continuity test, the control board may be faulty.

Step 5: Test the Switches

Using a multimeter, test the operation of the switches on the control board. The switches should open and close properly when pressed. If any of the switches fail to operate correctly, the control board may be faulty.

Step 6: Test the LEDs

If your control board has LEDs, test their functionality by applying voltage to the LED terminals. The LEDs should light up if they are working properly. If any of the LEDs fail to light up, the control board may be faulty.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you have tested the control board and found it to be faulty, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check if the dishwasher is plugged in correctly.
• Reset the dishwasher by turning off the power for a few minutes and then turning it back on.
• Inspect the wiring harness for any loose or damaged connections.
• Contact Frigidaire for support or to schedule a repair.

Wrapping Up

Testing your Frigidaire dishwasher control board is a straightforward process that can help you determine if it’s the source of your dishwasher’s problems. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively diagnose and troubleshoot the control board, saving you time and money on repairs.

What You Need to Know

Q: How can I prevent my Frigidaire dishwasher control board from failing?
A: To prevent control board failure, regularly clean your dishwasher, avoid overloading it, and use only recommended detergents.

Q: Can I test the control board without removing it from the dishwasher?
A: It is not recommended to test the control board without removing it, as this can lead to incorrect results.

Q: What are the most common symptoms of a faulty Frigidaire dishwasher control board?
A: Common symptoms include the dishwasher not starting, not draining, or not heating the water properly.