Checking the temperature sensor in the washing machine: methods, instructions

The temperature sensor is one of the main and important elements of the washing machine - it is responsible for heating the water to the required temperature, and then the temperature sensor turns off.

If you notice that your washing machine “overheats” water very much, or vice versa, it generally not warm, then the problem lies precisely in the temperature sensor. In our article, you will learn how to check the temperature sensor for its performance and for replacement (if required).

Variety of temperature sensors

Washing machine type design can only be equipped with one of the following three temperature sensors:

• Bimetallic;
• Thermistor;
• Gas-filled.

Bimetallic the temperature sensor looks like a tablet, about 20-30 millimeters in diameter and 10 millimeters in height. Inside this little pill is a bimetal strip. During the process of heating water, when it reaches a certain temperature, the plate bends and creates a contact closure. Under this condition, the heating process ends.

Thermistor has become quite a popular element among modern washing designs, which replaced the temperature sensor.

The thermistor looks like a small elongated cylinder. Its diameter is about 10 millimeters, and its length reaches up to about 30 millimeters. This cylinder is attached directly to the heating element. The principle of operation of such an element does not carry any mechanical work of the part, but simply changes the resistance during the process of heating water to the temperature you need.

gas-filled the temperature sensor has only two parts: the first is a tablet made of metal with a diameter of about 20-30 millimeters and a height of under 30 millimeters.

The first element is mainly located inside the tank itself, and always touches the water to change the temperature. The second part of the temperature sensor is made in the form of a copper tube, which is connected to the temperature controller (external), the location of which is located on the control panel of the washing machine. Inside these elements there is a gas, the name of which is freon. Under the temperature of the water, this gas can contract or expand, forming the closing and opening of contacts that lead to the heating element.

Checking the temperature sensor for operability and further replacement

The first step will be de-energization of the washing structure. Then the washing machine must be disassembled. The easiest option is to get the thermistor out of the washing machine, which is located inside the heating element.In most of the various models of washing machines from different manufacturers, the heating element is located in their lower (basement) part.

We carry out the removal of the thermistor in four steps:

1. Remove the back panel of the washing machine;
2. Disconnect the wires from the sensor that are directed to the temperature controller (external);
3. Slightly loosen the screw that holds the heating element;
4. Remove the thermistor from the device.

Here is the thermistor in our hands. To check it, you need multimeter, with which we can measure the resistance. Let's go through everything step by step:

1. First you need to set up the multimeter to measure resistance;
2. Now you need to connect the wiring to the contacts of this sensor. (Reference: 20 degrees is about 6000 ohms, or 6k ohms);
3. We check the performance: for this, we lower the sensor into hot water, while looking at the results of the multimeter. The sensor is operational when the resistance is lower. For example, if the temperature is 50 degrees, then the resistance indicator should be approximately 1350 ohms.

If the temperature sensor does not work, then it needs to be replaced, since it can no longer be repaired. Assemble the structure back in the same order as dismantled.

In order to get close to the gas-filled temperature sensor, you need to open not only the rear panel, but also the front cover (where the control panel is located). This is necessary in order to disconnect the sensor (or rather its outer part) from the panel itself.

When you have disconnected the external sensor, you need to go back to the back cover, remove it and find the wiring on the body of the tank. Carefully pull off the rubber insulation so as not to damage the copper tube. This can be done with a thin awl, or with a needle.Carefully get under the skin of the gum and spend a couple of circles - in this case, the insulation will be easier to pull together. A little effort with light pressure on the sensor (press on the base, moving the sensor a little deeper), and it will jump out of the groove on its own. After such an action, you can safely pull out the temperature sensor through the tank (or rather, the hole in it). Then everything is simple - disconnect the wires and check it with a multimeter.

As a result, the operation of the sensor becomes impossible. Replacement is carried out as follows. To get started, buy a new sensor (preferably a kit that also includes a switch) and install it in place of the old one, then assemble everything in the same order.

The bimetallic temperature sensor is also difficult to access; it is also necessary to get to it through the tank. Then disconnect the wires from the thermostat.

Then we connect the contacts to the multimeter, and look at the result of the resistance. Heat the water to a hot temperature and dip the sensor into it - this action is necessary in order to check for changes in resistance. If the resistance indicators have dropped sharply, then the temperature sensor is operational, if not, then it needs to be replaced.

Basically, bimetallic sensors break down due to a worn plate. In this case, replacing the sensor is very simple, buy a new thermostat (same) and install in place of the old one.

Signs of a temperature sensor breakdown: main breakdowns

Here are some of the main signs.

• With different washing modes and a certain temperature chosen by you, the heating element brings the water in the washing machine to a boil;
• During the washing process, the body of the washing machine is very hotand steam comes out of the loading door.

If your washing machine has such a problem, then you need to get rid of it immediately. Otherwise, it may cause your heating element to burn out. And do not forget that replacing a heating element is several times more expensive than replacing a temperature sensor.

Replacing the temperature sensor in a washing machine is a fairly easy and simple task that absolutely anyone can handle. You just need to buy exactly the same temperature sensor and put it in place of the old one. We wish you good luck!