How to Test and Replace the Temp Sensor on a Whirlpool Washer

Have you noticed your Whirlpool front-load washer struggling to deliver the right water temperature during cycles? It could be a sign that the temperature sensor is faulty—and we’re here to help you figure out if a quick replacement is all you need to get it running perfectly again.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

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.

What is the temperature sensor?

The temperature sensor in your Whirlpool front-load washer makes sure the water is at the right temperature for your chosen cycle. It measures the water’s temperature and sends the information to the control board, which adjusts it if needed. If the sensor isn’t working, you might notice water temperatures that don’t match the cycle you selected.  

Materials you need

• ¼” nutdriver
• Multimeter
• 10 mm socket
• Flat head 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 you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to test and replace the temperature sensor on a Whirlpool front load washer

1. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the back of the washer’s top panel.
2. Slide the top panel back, lift it up, and set it aside.
3. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the lock tab at the back of the control panel away from the wall.
4. Slide the control panel back and lift the control cover by pressing the locking tabs underneath and rotating it upward.
5. Locate the double black wire connector labeled SET2.
6. Disconnect the connector to access the temperature sensor wires.
7. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (symbolized by an upside-down horseshoe).
8. Test resistance by placing the multimeter probes on the two black wires of the SET2 connector.
9. Confirm the reading is between 9.8K Ohms (86°F) and 14.8K Ohms (68°F).
10. If the reading is outside this range, the sensor is faulty and needs replacement.
11. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the washer’s back access panel.
12. Remove the panel to access the heater assembly.
13. Use a 10mm socket to loosen the tension nut on the heater assembly.
14. Pull the temperature sensor out of the heater assembly.
15. Disconnect the wires from the sensor.
16. Insert the new temperature sensor into the heater assembly.
17. Secure it by tightening the 10mm nut.
18. Reconnect the wires to the new sensor.
19. Place the back access panel onto the washer and secure it with screws using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
20. Reconnect the wire connector to terminal SET2.
21. Close the control cover and slide the control panel back into place.
22. Secure the control panel with the locking tab.
23. Slide the top panel back onto the washer.
24. Secure it with the two screws removed earlier using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
25. Plug the washer’s power cord back into the outlet.
26. Test the washer to ensure proper functionality.

More DIY resources

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the temperature sensor in your Whirlpool front load washer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock 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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