How to Fix Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board Issues

 

Having trouble with your Whirlpool refrigerator not performing as expected? The problem might lie with the Whirlpool refrigerator control board—a vital component that manages the appliance’s functions. When it malfunctions, your refrigerator’s efficiency can decline, causing a range of issues. While replacing the control board can be costly, many problems can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to identify and fix common issues with the Whirlpool refrigerator control board, helping you restore your appliance to optimal performance.

What is a Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board?

The Whirlpool refrigerator control board is an electronic component that regulates nearly all of the refrigerator's functions. The control board receives input from various sensors, such as the temperature sensors in the refrigerator and freezer sections, and adjusts the operation of the compressor, fans, defrost cycle, and other systems accordingly.

In modern refrigerators, the Whirlpool refrigerator control board replaces older mechanical components, offering more precision and control. The control board is responsible for maintaining the correct temperature, preventing the refrigerator from overheating, and ensuring that the fans and compressors run efficiently.

Common Issues and Fixes of Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Board 

Below are some common issues that can arise with the Whirlpool refrigerator control board, along with effective fixes to help restore your appliance’s performance.

Failure to Start or No Power

One of the most noticeable signs of a malfunctioning Whirlpool refrigerator control board is that the refrigerator fails to start. The display may be blank, and the refrigerator may not cool at all. This issue can stem from a variety of factors, but often, a faulty control board is to blame.

How to Fix:

Power cycle the refrigerator by disconnecting it for five to ten minutes and then reconnecting it. This can help reset the control board and clear any temporary glitches. Examine the power source to make sure that the refrigerator is connected to a functional outlet. Make sure that there is no tripping of the circuit breaker.

Check the control board for obvious damage, such as burned spots, loose cables, or damaged parts. The control board might need to be replaced if damage is noticed.

Erratic Temperature Control

A malfunctioning Whirlpool refrigerator control board can cause erratic temperature fluctuations. The refrigerator may get too cold, freezing food, or it may not cool properly, causing food to spoil.

How to Fix:

Reset the temperature settings, for sometimes a reset of the refrigerator's settings can help restore normal temperature control. Adjust the refrigerator's temperature to its suggested setting, which is typically 37°F for the refrigerator and 0°F for the freezer.

Check the sensors to ensure that the temperature sensors in the fridge and freezer are functioning properly. If the sensors are malfunctioning, they may send incorrect signals to the control board. Test the control board if the temperature still fluctuates, the control board may need to be replaced.

Compressor Not Running

The control board is responsible for regulating the compressor, which is essential for cooling. If the Whirlpool refrigerator control board malfunctions, it may fail to send the proper signals to the compressor, preventing it from running.

How to Fix:

Test the compressor by using a multimeter to check if the compressor is receiving power. If it isn’t, the control board may be the issue.  Inspect wiring to check the wiring connections to the compressor and control board for loose or broken connections. Replace the control board to replace the control board if the compressor is not operating even with the correct wiring and power.

Error Codes Displayed on the Screen

Modern Whirlpool refrigerators come equipped with diagnostic systems that communicate problems through error codes displayed on the control panel. These error codes can indicate issues with the Whirlpool refrigerator control board or other components like the temperature sensors, fans, or defrost system.

How to Fix:

Refer to the user guide to understand the error message; consult the documentation that came with your refrigerator. Troubleshooting steps are frequently included in the manual. Reset the refrigerator  for a time; sometimes  a simple reset (unplugging and waiting 5 minutes) will clear the error codes. Replace the control board; it could be necessary to replace the control board if the error codes continue, especially those pertaining to it.

Ice Maker Malfunctions

The Whirlpool refrigerator control board also controls the operation of the ice maker. If the control board malfunctions, the ice maker may stop producing ice, or it may produce ice irregularly.

How to Fix:

Check the ice maker reset button, for many Whirlpool ice makers have a reset button. Pressing this can sometimes resolve minor issues.  Inspect the control board connections to ensure that the wires connected to the ice maker and control board are secure. Replace the control board for resetting the ice maker doesn’t work and the issue persists, you may need to replace the Whirlpool refrigerator control board.

Overheating and Fan Problems

Another symptom of a faulty Whirlpool refrigerator control board is overheating of the compressor or fan motor. If the control board fails to regulate these components, they can overheat and stop working.

How to Fix:

Clean the coils, for dirty condenser coils can cause overheating. Clean the coils to ensure proper ventilation and cooling. Inspect the fan motors to check the evaporator and condenser fan motors for any signs of wear or failure. If the fans are not working, the control board may not be sending the proper signals. Replace the control board. If overheating or fan malfunctions persist, it may indicate that the control board is no longer functioning properly and needs to be replaced.

Defrost System Failure

If your Whirlpool refrigerator’s defrost system fails, it may cause frost buildup inside the freezer, leading to inefficient cooling. A faulty Whirlpool refrigerator control board is often responsible for regulating the defrost cycle. 

How to Fix:

Inspect the defrost timer to check the defrost timer and heater for continuity with a multimeter. If there is no continuity, the parts may need replacing. Check the control board if the defrost system is not working, the control board may not be sending the signal to activate the cycle. If no issues are found with the defrost system components, the control board may need replacement.

Failure to Control Light System

The Whirlpool refrigerator control board also regulates the lighting system inside your fridge. If the lights fail to turn on or behave erratically, it could be due to a malfunction in the control board.

How to Fix:

Test the bulbs to ensure the light bulbs are functioning properly. Check the wiring to the control board to inspect the wiring connected to the lighting system for any damage. Replace the control board if the wiring and bulbs are fine and the lights are still unresponsive; replacing the control board could resolve the issue.

Failure of the Fresh Food Compartment Fan

In some Whirlpool refrigerators, the control board is responsible for operating the fresh food compartment fan. If this fan is not running, the refrigerator will struggle to maintain consistent temperatures.

How to Fix:

Test the fan motor to ensure the motor is not seized or broken. Inspect the control board connections, and if the motor is fine, check if the control board is sending the correct signals to the fan. Replace the control board if the fan still fails to operate after troubleshooting; replacing the control board may be necessary.

Control Board Reset Not Working

Sometimes, attempting a reset on the Whirlpool refrigerator control board fails to restore normal operation, indicating deeper control board issues.

How to Fix:

Inspect for visible damage to check the control board for any burnt components, faulty solder joints, or corrosion. Perform a hard reset, for a simple reset doesn’t work; unplug the refrigerator for an extended period (up to 30 minutes) and then plug it back in. Replace the control board if these steps don’t resolve the issue; the control board may be beyond repair and need replacing.

Non-Responsive Freezer Compartment

If the freezer compartment isn’t cooling or is cooling unevenly, it might be due to the Whirlpool refrigerator control board not properly managing the freezer’s cooling cycles.

How to Fix:

Check the freezer fan to ensure the evaporator fan is operating correctly and isn’t obstructed. Test the temperature sensors to make sure the sensors are providing accurate readings. Replace the control board if the cooling issue persists; the control board might be malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.

Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Control Board Issues

To extend the life of your Whirlpool refrigerator control board and avoid frequent repairs, consider the following maintenance tips:

Keep Vents and Coils Clean: Dirty condenser coils and blocked vents can overheat components, including the control board. Clean these areas regularly to ensure efficient airflow and cooling.

Avoid Power Surges: Use a surge protector to prevent electrical spikes from damaging the control board. Power surges from lightning or unstable electrical grids can affect sensitive components.

Regularly Check Wiring: Inspect the wiring connections in your refrigerator for signs of wear, corrosion, or looseness. Ensure that all connections are secure.

Monitor Temperature Regularly: Set your refrigerator to the correct temperature and avoid opening the door frequently, as this can cause unnecessary strain on the control board.

Consult the Manual: Regularly check your refrigerator's user manual for maintenance tips and recommended service intervals to keep your appliance running smoothly.

Fixing Whirlpool refrigerator control board issues doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following simple troubleshooting steps and understanding common problems, you can restore your refrigerator’s performance quickly and affordably. If the issue persists, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. With the right approach, you can keep your Whirlpool fridge running smoothly for years.

Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of replacement components for Refrigerators, Dishwashers, and more.