How to replace the water temperature switch on a direct-drive top-load washer
This DIY washer repair guide explains how to replace the water temperature switch on a top-load washer. Located on the control panel, the water temperature switch lets you choose the water temperature for the wash and rinse cycles. If the switch fails, the water entering the tub is the wrong temperature. Replace a faulty water temperature switch using a manufacturer-approved washer part.
Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Roper, Crosley and Estate washers use the type of water temperature switch shown in this repair guide.
This video explains how to replace the water temperature control switch on a direct-drive top-load washer.
Instructions
- 01.
Shut off the electricity
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
- 02.
Remove the water temperature control knob
Pull the water temperature control knob off the stem of the water temperature switch.
PHOTO: Pull the water temperature control knob off the switch stem.
- 03.
Open the control console
Pull the plastic end caps off the sides of the control console.
Remove the screws at the base of the control console.
Pull the control console slightly forward and then swing it over the top of the back panel.
Tip: Some Whirlpool models have screws on the back of the end caps instead of on the front of the control console; remove the screws. Other models have spring clips under the end caps; use a putty knife to release the spring clips.
PHOTO: Remove the plastic endcaps from the control console.
PHOTO: Remove the screws at the base of the control panel console.
PHOTO: Flip the console up and back.
- 04.
Remove the water temperature switch
Disconnect the wire harness from the water temperature switch.
Pry up the locking tab and rotate the water temperature switch 1/8 turn to release it from the console panel.
Pull the water temperature switch out of the console.
PHOTO: Disconnect the wire harness from the water temperature switch.
PHOTO: Release the water temperature switch locking tab.
PHOTO: Remove the temperature switch from the control panel.
- 05.
Install the new water temperature switch
Position the new water temperature switch on the console panel with the locking tab positioned 1/8 turn from the top.
Push the temperature switch into the console panel and rotate the locking tab to the 12 o'clock position to lock the tab.
Connect the wire harness to the new water temperature switch.
PHOTO: Connect the wire harness to the new water temperature switch.
- 06.
Reinstall the control console
Position the control console on the top panel of the washer.
Reinstall the mounting screws at the base of the control console.
Snap the plastic end caps onto the sides of the control console.
PHOTO: Close the console.
PHOTO: Reinstall the control console screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the plastic endcaps.
- 07.
Reinstall the water temperature control knob
Line up the flat side of the water temperature control knob with the flat side of the shaft on the new water temperature switch.
Push the water temperature control knob down onto the temperature switch shaft.
PHOTO: Reinstall the water temperature control knob.
- 08.
Restore the power
Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers
Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Main causes: broken lid switch or lid lock, bad pressure switch, broken shifter assembly, faulty control system...
Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, bad power cord, electronic control board failure, bad user interf...
Main causes: leaky water inlet valve, faulty water-level pressure switch, bad electronic control board...
Main causes: water heater failure, bad water temperature switch, faulty control board, bad water valve, faulty water tem...
Main causes: no water supply, bad water valves, water-level pressure switch failure, control system failure, bad door lo...
Main causes: worn agitator dogs, bad clutch, broken motor coupler, shifter assembly failure, broken door lock, suspensio...
Main causes: unbalanced load, loose spanner nut, worn drive block, broken shock absorber or suspension spring, debris in...
Main causes: clogged drain hose, house drain clogged, bad drain pump, water-level pressure switch failure, bad control b...
Main causes: bad lid switch or door lock, bad timer or electronic control board, wiring failure, bad water inlet valve a...
Repair guides for top-load washers
How to replace the motor coupler on a top-load washer
If the washer drains but won’t agitate or spin, the motor coupler might have broken to protect the drive motor from dama...
How to replace the clutch assembly in a top-load washer
If the washer spins when the basket is empty but not when the basket is full, the problem could be the clutch assembly. ...
How to replace the drive block on a top-load washer
The drive block rotates the spin basket. If the basket wobbles or rattles in the spin mode because the drive block is wo...
Effective articles & videos to help repair your washers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your washer.
Find tips for using your washing machine efficiently to save energy and help reduce utility bills....
Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier....
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect....