How to Fix the Timer on a Washing Machine

Washing machine cycles won't work properly if the timer is defective.

You might notice your washing machine taking an unusually long time to wash, or it may not wash at all. This happens if your timer experiences a malfunction. To remedy the situation, you must replace the timer. This involves removing the timer unit from the washing machine's control panel, then installing a new timer. If your machine doesn't have a timer, or has a digital timer, the issues with your wash cycles are likely caused by another problem within the washing machine's mechanics.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Replacement timer

Instructions

1. Unplug your washing machine from its power source. You may risk electrocution by not following this direction.

2. Place a towel or some other large cloth on top of your washing machine's surface. This will prevent dirtying the finish on your machine if its control panel is at the top back of the appliance.

3. Grasp the timer knob with your hand and pull back, without using excessive force. Press on the sides of the knob until it comes free. This knob comes off more easily if you lever it with a flat object that fits right in the slit between the knob and the control panel's body.

4. Remove the screws holding your control panel's faceplate to the panel body, using a Phillips-head screwdriver. The faceplate is the part of the machine with the knobs and other buttons that you use to control the settings. The panel body sits right behind it, containing all the circuitry and components you interact with.

5. Remove the two to four screws that hold the timer behind the knob you removed. The timer is a small metal or plastic box with a metal protrusion where the knob attaches, allowing you to adjust the wash cycles. Press on the plastic clip holding the timer to the control panel and remove the timer.

6. Install the new timer in the same position, using the plastic clip to fasten it to the main board and fastening the screws you removed earlier.

7. Reassemble your control panel, install the timer knob and plug your washing machine into the wall outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• Your timer knob actually acts as a face mechanism to help you interact with the washing machine. It doesn't have much to do with the timer's functionality itself.

• You must purchase a washing machine timer specifically made for your washing machine model, from the manufacturer. If you use any other timer, even if it looks similar, you might structurally damage the control panel and perhaps even the machine.

References

• Acme How-To: Washer Troubleshooting Guide