How to replace the capacitor on a Whirlpool washing machine

On a Whirlpool washer, the capacitor is responsible for storing electrical energy and providing a power boost to start the motor, allowing your washer to begin its cycle. 

Common signs that indicate the need for replacement include the washer struggling to start, humming noises without movement, or the motor not running despite power being supplied. 

Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your washer back in working order. So, let’s get started!

You can find a replacement capacitor here. If you need other replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch here: How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Capacitor WP8572717

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Tools and materials

• Replacement part (make sure it’s compatible with your model before installing)
• Flat head screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts. 
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short circuiting when testing. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.

Replacement steps

Step 1: Disassembly  

1. Remove the two screws holding the control panel in place at the front and rear. 
2. Lift off any trim covers or use a putty knife to release spring clips. 
3. Slide the control panel forward about 1/2 an inch and lift it back over the back of the machine.
4. Disconnect the lid switch and use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the two retaining spring clips that hold the body to the frame.
5. Lift up on the lid, grab the body near the front, put your foot against the body of the machine, tilt the body back to about a 45-degree angle, and carefully lift it off the washer.
6. Remove the capacitor from the plastic bracket at the bottom by prying on it to release the capacitor.
7. If the new capacitor does not come with a foam shield, carefully remove the shield from the old capacitor. 
8. Wrap the foam shield around the new capacitor. If needed, use double-sided tape or rubber cement to secure it.
9. Press the wires onto the appropriate connectors of the new capacitor. The placement of the wires does not matter.
10. Flip the capacitor over and place it back into the holding bracket. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the tab down and press the capacitor into place.

Step 2: Reassembly 

1. Hold the body at a 45-degree angle and swing it back onto the washing machine. 
2. When sliding the body back onto the frame, make sure the lower lip goes underneath the frame, then lower it down onto the four locking tabs. 
3. Hook the retaining spring clips onto the back panel and use a flathead screwdriver to push them down into place.
4. Reconnect the lid switch.
5. Rotate the control panel forward over the front of the machine, ensuring the locking tabs lock in place. Pull it back about half an inch and replace the screws.
6. Plug the washer back in and turn the water back on.
7. Test the washer to check for any problems. 

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the capacitor on your Whirlpool washer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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