How to test & replace the pressure switch in your Whirlpool front-load washer

Say goodbye to unnecessary repair bills! With this step-by-step guide, you can test and replace the pressure switch in your Whirlpool front load washer all on your own.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool front load 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.

Important: The testing and replacement information in this article is based on model WFW95HEXW and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What you need

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Multimeter

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: How to Deep Clean a Washing Machine

Safety precautions

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• 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.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• 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.

Read more: Seven Steps to Master Your Laundry Day: A Complete Guide

How to test and replace a Whirlpool front load washer’s pressure switch

Step 1. Test the pressure switch

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 toward the rear, lift it up, and set it aside.
3. Locate the pressure switch inside the washer.

4. Remove the pressure hose from the pressure switch.
5. Blow air through the pressure hose to ensure it is not clogged. There should be minimal resistance.
6. Reconnect the pressure hose and plug the washer power cord back in.
7. Set your multimeter to Volts DC (displayed as a “V” with a dotted line).

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

8. Carefully test the voltage by placing the multimeter leads between pin 5 and pin 1 on the pressure switch wiring.
9. Check the multimeter reading for 5 Volts DC. If 5 Volts DC is present and water flow stops when the power cord is unplugged, the pressure switch is faulty. If voltage is not present, another issue is likely causing the problem.

Step 2. Remove the faulty pressure switch

1. Unplug the washer’s power cord.
2. Disconnect the wire from the pressure switch by pressing the lock tab.
3. Detach the pressure hose from the pressure switch.
4. Rotate the pressure switch 90 degrees to unlock it, then pull it away to remove it.

Step 3. Install the new pressure switch

1. Insert the new pressure switch and rotate it 90 degrees to secure it in place.
2. Reconnect the pressure hose and wire harness to the new pressure switch.

Step 4. Reassemble the washer

1. Place the top panel back onto the washer.
2. Slide the top panel toward the front and secure it with the 1/4-inch screws using the nut driver.
3. Plug the washer power cord back in to complete the replacement.

Read more: How to Manually Unlock a Front Load Washer: Step-by-Step Guide

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the pressure switch 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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