Empower your appliance: how to test and repair your lg dishwasher control board

If your LG dishwasher is malfunctioning, it could be due to a faulty control board. This essential component regulates the dishwasher’s functions, including water intake, heating, and detergent dispensing. Testing the control board can help you determine if it’s the root cause of your dishwasher problems.

Symptoms of a Faulty Control Board

• Dishwasher won’t start or complete cycles
• Water not filling or draining properly
• Heating element not working
• Detergent dispenser not opening
• Control panel buttons not responding

Materials You’ll Need

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver
• Wire stripper (optional)

Safety Precautions

• Unplug the dishwasher before starting any testing.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
• Ensure you have a basic understanding of electrical circuitry before proceeding.

Step-by-Step Testing Procedure

1. Remove the Dishwasher Door Panel

Open the dishwasher door and locate the screws holding the door panel in place. Unscrew them and carefully remove the panel.

2. Locate the Control Board

The control board is usually located behind the door panel, attached to the dishwasher’s frame. It’s typically a rectangular or square circuit board with various wires and components.

3. Disconnect the Wires

Before testing, disconnect all the wires connected to the control board. Use a screwdriver or wire stripper to gently loosen the wire nuts or terminals.

4. Set Multimeter to Resistance Mode

Set your multimeter to the resistance mode (Ω symbol). This mode measures the resistance of electrical circuits.

5. Test Power Terminals

Connect the multimeter probes to the power terminals on the control board. These terminals are usually labeled “L” and “N” or “V+” and “V-“. You should get a reading close to 120 volts AC.

6. Test Output Terminals

Connect the multimeter probes to the output terminals on the control board. These terminals control various functions of the dishwasher, such as the water valve, heating element, and detergent dispenser. You should get a reading of several ohms or less.

7. Test Input Terminals

Connect the multimeter probes to the input terminals on the control board. These terminals receive signals from the dishwasher’s sensors and switches. You should get a reading of several ohms or less.

Troubleshooting Results

• No reading on power terminals: The control board is not receiving power. Check the electrical outlet or circuit breaker.
• No reading on output terminals: The control board is not sending power to the dishwasher’s components. Replace the control board.
• High resistance on input terminals: The sensors or switches connected to the control board are faulty. Inspect and replace as necessary.

Replacing the Control Board

If the control board is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source.
2. Remove the door panel and locate the control board.
3. Disconnect all the wires from the control board.
4. Unscrew the screws holding the control board in place.
5. Remove the old control board and replace it with a new one.
6. Reconnect all the wires and tighten the screws.
7. Reinstall the door panel and reconnect the dishwasher to the power source.

FAQ

1. What are the common causes of a faulty control board?

• Power surges
• Water damage
• Component failure over time

2. Can I repair a faulty control board myself?

• In most cases, it’s not recommended. Control boards contain complex circuitry that requires specialized knowledge and tools to repair.

3. How often should I test the control board?

• It’s not necessary to test the control board regularly unless you experience problems with the dishwasher.

4. Can a faulty control board damage other dishwasher components?

• Yes, a faulty control board can send incorrect signals to other components, potentially causing damage.

5. What other troubleshooting steps can I try before testing the control board?

• Check the power outlet and circuit breaker
• Inspect the door latch and door seals