Gibson Washer dispenser not working: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

In some dispensers, there is a siphon tube that helps distribute detergent, bleach, or fabric softener. If the siphon tube becomes clogged, it can lead to a diluted mixture of these substances remaining in the dispenser tray. To prevent this issue, it is important to make sure that both the dispenser compartment trays and the siphon tubes are kept clean. Regularly check and clean these components to maintain optimal performance and prevent any leftover diluted mixtures in the dispenser.

How to Replace Washing Machine Siphon Break

1. Shut off power at breaker box. Turn off power to Gibson washer to work safely.

2. Access back of machine. Remove rear access panel or cover to reach internal components.

3. Locate siphon break. It will be mounted between pump and drain hose, possibly labeled.

4. Detach hoses. Disconnect hose fittings connected to either end of break.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to take out screws securing siphon break.

6. Detach old break. Gently remove siphon break from Gibson washer housing once fully disconnected.

7. Clean mounting area. Wipe where new break will mount to remove residue.

8. Attach new siphon break. Connect hoses to either end and mount onto Gibson washer housing.

9. Secure with screws. Tighten mounting screws retaining new break in position.

10. Reinstall access panel. Replace rear panel removed earlier.

11. Test drain cycle. Run water drain test load to check for leaks from new siphon break.

Repair Instructions:

When a Gibson washer detergent dispenser stops working, it is commonly caused by low water pressure in the home or a faulty water inlet valve that doesn't supply water to the dispenser. It is also possible that the dispenser drawer itself is blocked or damaged, preventing the detergent from being dispensed properly. Examine the dispenser drawer for any obstructions or signs of damage. If you find any obstructions or damage, you will need to replace the part.

How to Replace Washing Machine Dispenser

1. Unplug machine. Disconnect the Gibson washer from its power source to work safely inside.

2. Open access door. Locate and remove any screws holding the dispenser access panel on the top of the machine.

3. Disconnect hoses. Detach hoses and wires connecting the existing dispenser to the machine components.

4. Remove old unit. Pull the dispenser straight up and out of the machine cabinet once all attachments are freed.

5. Clean compartment. Wipe out any residue inside the dispenser cavity before installing the new unit.

6. Insert new dispenser. Set the replacement dispenser into position within the cabinet opening.

7. Reattach hoses/wires. Reconnect all hoses, tubes and wires to the corresponding ports on the new dispenser.

8. Secure in place. Replace any screws through the access panel to hold the dispenser firmly against the top of the machine.

9. Test operation. Add water and detergent to run a test cycle and make sure the new dispenser works properly.

10. Replace panel. Secure the access door panel after confirming normal dispensing operation.

Repair Instructions:

If the detergent dispenser in the washing machine is not working properly, it might be due to clogging, misalignment, or damage. It's important to carefully examine the detergent container for any signs of damage. If you notice any damage, the detergent dispenser will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Detergent Container

1. Turn off power at breaker box. Shut off power supply to work safely.

2. Open washing machine lid. Raise lid fully to access detergent dispenser area.

3. Remove any retaining screws. Look for 1-2 small screws securing old container in place.

4. Detach container. Gently lift container straight up once screws are removed. Wiggle slightly if needed.

5. Clean mounting area. Wipe away residue from where new container will mount.

6. Install new container. Set replacement container into position on mounting brackets.

7. Secure with screws. Hand-tighten retaining screws through holes in container back into place.

8. Check for leaks. Run water only cycle to check for leaks from container compartment.

9. Load first load of laundry. Add detergent to new container and run a load of laundry.

10. Inspect after. Check that detergent fully dispenses from container as intended.

Repair Instructions:

The dispenser in the washing machine uses water from the inlet valve to flush out the detergent and fabric softener. If the water flow is too slow, the dispenser won't be able to distribute the detergent and softener effectively. The water inlet valve needs a minimum of 20 psi (pounds per square inch) to work correctly. To address this issue, start by checking the water pressure to make sure it is sufficient. If the water pressure is fine, you would need to replace the water inlet valve.

How to Replace Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve

1. Shut off water supply. Turn off the valves where the water lines attach to the washing machine. This prevents flooding during repairs.

2. Release water pressure. Run the wash cycle to drain any remaining water trapped in the lines before proceeding.

3. Disconnect hoses. Detach the hot and cold water hoses from the valve itself using pliers if necessary.

4. Remove mounting hardware. Use a screwdriver to take out any screws or bolts attaching the inlet valve to the machine.

5. Extract old valve. Ease the inlet valve out of position once it is fully detached from mountings and water lines.

6. Inspect seal rings. If the rubber seal rings inside the valve port are cracked or deteriorated, replace them now.

7. Install new valve. Position the replacement inlet valve where the old one sat, aligning holes for mounting hardware.

8. Reattach securely. Replace all mounting bolts or screws removed earlier to fasten the new valve firmly in place.

9. Reconnect water lines. Attach the hot and cold water supply hoses to the new inlet valve ports using pliers if needed.

10. Restore water supply. Turn on valves to refill lines and test connections for leaks before operating.

Repair Instructions:

The dispenser actuator is responsible for directing the water to the correct compartment tray. If the actuator becomes stuck, the water will not be diverted to the appropriate compartment, resulting in the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener being left behind.

How to Replace Washing Machine Dispenser Actuator

1. Unplug the Gibson washer or switch off the wall circuit breaker before servicing.

2. Open the dispenser door and locate the actuator mounting screws.

3. Remove the mounting screws securing the faulty actuator in place.

4. Detach any wires plugged into the actuator by unclipping wire connectors.

5. Withdraw the old actuator once fully freed from screws and wiring.

6. Clean the mounting area where the new actuator will attach.

7. Position the replacement actuator aligning mounting holes with those in dispenser frame.

8. Reconnect any wiring by securely plugging connectors back onto new actuator.

9. Secure with mounting screws to affix actuator inside dispenser compartment.

10. Test operation by programming a load to ensure actuator dispenses properly.

Repair Instructions:

Make sure the water supply tube to the dispenser is not damaged or clogged with debris. If it is damaged the tube will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Water Supply Tube

1. Shut off water supply valves. Turn off hot and cold valves under sink or next to Gibson washer.

2. Disconnect tube from valves. Depress collar on supply line fitting and pull tube off water source.

3. Disconnect tube from Gibson washer. Locate tube connection at back of Gibson washer and disconnect by depressing fitting collar.

4. Remove retaining clip. A clip may hold tube in place near water inlet valve. Remove clip.

5. Detach old supply tube. Gently pull tube completely from Gibson washer housing.

6. Dry connection areas. Wipe water connections dry where new tube will attach.

7. Install new supply tube. Guide tube end into Gibson washer inlet valve fitting and push securely in place.

8. Reconnect tubes to valves. Attach tube to home water supply source(s) by inserting into fittings.

9. Reinstall retaining clip if needed. Clip helps secure tube to Gibson washer.

10. Turn water supply back on. Slowly open shut-off valves to pressurize line and check for leaks.

Repair Instructions:

In certain Gibson washer models, the water inlet valve is integrated into the dispenser housing. If this inlet valve is not functioning properly, water might not enter the dispenser to flush out the detergent into the tub. In such cases, if the water inlet valve is found to be defective, the entire dispenser housing will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Dispenser Housing

1. Turn off power to Gibson washer. Disconnect power cord from outlet for safety.

2. Remove detergent dispenser cup. Look for retaining screws underneath cup to remove.

3. Take out softener dispenser tray. Lift tray from agitator after removing single screw.

4. Disconnect any wires. Note wire placement before detaching from back of housing.

5. Remove housing retaining screws. Look on sides and back of housing for 2-4 screws.

6. Detach old housing from cabinet. Gently lift housing free from machine once fully disconnected.

7. Clean mounting area. Wipe away residue from plastic posts it will attach to.

8. Mount new housing. Set housing over posts and hand-tighten retaining screws.

9. Reinstall dispenser components. Replace detergent cup and softener tray removed earlier.

10. Reconnect any wires. Match colors to proper terminals on replacement housing.

11. Test all functions. Run cycle to ensure dispensers work with new housing installed.

Repair Instructions:

In certain models of Gibson washers, there is a drawer designed to hold the detergent, bleach, and fabric softener. If this drawer is not aligned correctly or if it is damaged, the contents may not be dispensed properly during the wash cycle. To address this issue, carefully examine the dispenser drawer for any signs of damage. If you notice any damage the drawer will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Dispenser Drawer

1. Open access door. Find the door or panel that allows access to the dispenser drawer area, usually located on the upper front of modern Gibson washers. Remove any screws.

2. Remove old drawer. Grasp the sides of the dispenser drawer and pull firmly straight out from the machine. Wiggle slightly if stuck.

3. Clear out debris. Use a vacuum or cloth to clean out any remaining detergent residues from the tracks the old drawer slid within.

4. Install new drawer. Place the replacement dispenser drawer into the opening, lining up the sides with the tracks inside the washing machine cabinet.

5. Slide drawer closed. Firmly push the new drawer shut all the way so it is flush with the front panel. It should lock into place.

6. Test operation. Open and close the dispenser drawer smoothly a few times to ensure it slides easily without catching.

7. Replace access panel. Position the access door back in place and screw the mounting screws back in to seal it shut.

8. Load wash. Add detergent to test that dispenses correctly through the cycle.

Repair Instructions:

In certain models of Gibson washers, there is a diverter motor that plays an important role in directing water to flush out the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener into the tub. If this diverter motor is not functioning correctly, it can cause issues with the dispenser, leading to improper operation. To troubleshoot this problem, you can use a multimeter to test the diverter motor for continuity.

How to Replace Washing Machine Diverter Motor

1. Shut off power at breaker. Turn off power to Gibson washer for safety.

2. Remove access panel. Find screw(s) holding rear or side panel on and remove.

3. Locate diverter motor. It's mounted near inlet valves and directs water flow.

4. Disconnect wires. Note wire colors before detaching them from old motor.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use Phillips screwdriver to detach motor from housing.

6. Detach water line. Disconnect hard water line from port on bottom of motor.

7. Clean mounting area. Wipe away residue from where new motor will mount.

8. Mount replacement motor. Set motor into position and start retaining screws.

9. Reattach water line. Connect line fitting to port on bottom of new motor.

10. Reconnect wires. Match colors to proper terminals on replacement diverter motor.

11. Replace access panel. Reinstall any parts removed earlier to fully enclose.

12. Test function. Run water flow test cycle to check if new motor diverts properly.

Repair Instructions:

When a Gibson washer detergent dispenser is not functioning, it is commonly due to low water pressure in the home or a faulty water inlet valve that doesn't provide water to the dispenser. Another possibility is that the appliance's control board is not properly sending power to the dispenser water valves or dispenser actuator when needed. To determine if this is the case, you can use a multimeter to check if voltage is reaching these components. If the voltage is not reaching them, the control board will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect the power cord before servicing to prevent electric shock.

2. Open the control panel. The control board is located behind the control panel on the Gibson washer front.

3. Label connections. Take note of where each wire and connector is attached to the control board.

4. Disconnect wires. Carefully detach all wiring harnesses and connectors from the board.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the control board.

6. Remove control board. Carefully pull the control board free from the Gibson washer once all wires are detached.

7. Install new control board. Align the replacement board into position and insert mounting screws.

8. Reconnect wires. Attach all wiring harnesses and connectors to the matching terminals on the new board.

9. Close control panel. Carefully close the control panel once the new board is installed.

10. Restore power. Plug in the washing machine and test operation.

11. Program control board. You may need to program or configure the new control board if it doesn't operate correctly.

12. Test cycles. Run short test cycles to verify the Gibson washer is functioning properly before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

When a Gibson washer dispenser is not functioning properly, there are a few causes to consider. One common reason is low water pressure in the home or a faulty water inlet valve that fails to supply water to the dispenser. It is also possible that the dispenser drawer itself is blocked or damaged, preventing the proper dispensing of detergent, bleach, or fabric softener. To address this issue, carefully examine the dispenser drawer for any obstructions or signs of damage. If you find any obstructions or damage, you will need to replace the drawer.

How to Replace Washing Machine Drawer

1. Disconnect power by unplugging the Gibson washer or switching off the breaker.

2. Open the detergent dispenser drawer to access mounting area inside machine.

3. Locate mounting screws securing drawer slides/rails inside unit cabinet walls.

4. Remove mounting screws to detach old, faulty drawer slides/rails from frame.

5. Detach drawer assembly by lifting fully away from machine once unsecured.

6. Clean mounting locations where replacement drawer will attach inside walls.

7. Reattach new slides/rails using screws through pre-drilled holes in cabinet.

8. Align and insert drawer sliding rails/runners into mounted replacements inside unit.

9. Check smooth operation by opening and closing drawer after installation.

10. Restore power and run test cycle to confirm normal dispenser functioning.

Repair Instructions:

The main control board of a washing machine supplies power to most of the electrical parts, including the dispenser that releases detergent, bleach, or fabric softener. It is not common for the control board to be the cause of this issue. To investigate, you can examine the control board for any signs of burning or damaged components. Additionally, you can use a multimeter to test the power output terminals on the board, referring to the appliance's wiring diagram for guidance. This will help determine if the board is functioning correctly or if there is a problem with the power supply to the dispenser.

How to Replace Washing Machine Main Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect power to prevent electric shock.

2. Open control panel. Unscrew the control panel on the Gibson washer to access interior.

3. Locate control board. The main control board is mounted to the cabinet interior.

4. Label wire connections. Note where each wire harness connects to the control board.

5. Disconnect wires. Detach all wire harnesses from the terminals on the control board.

6. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove screws securing control board.

7. Remove control board. Carefully detach old control board from the Gibson washer.

8. Install new control board. Align replacement board and reinsert mounting screws.

9. Reconnect wires. Attach all wire harnesses to proper terminals on new control board.

10. Close control panel. Carefully close and screw the control panel back on.

11. Restore power. Plug in washing machine and test operation.

12. Program control board. You may need to program the new control board if needed.

Repair Instructions:

When a Gibson washer detergent dispenser is not functioning correctly, it is frequently due to low water pressure in the home or a faulty water inlet valve that fails to provide water to the dispenser. Insufficient water pressure, particularly below 20psi, can result in an inadequate rinse of the detergent dispenser and a slow filling of the tub. You will need to check the water pressure to make sure it meets the necessary requirements. By doing so, you can determine if the water pressure is sufficient and take appropriate measures to resolve any issues related to low water pressure.

Repair Instructions:

If the Gibson washer is not properly leveled, it can prevent the incoming water from rinsing the detergent out of the dispenser and into the tub during the wash cycle. Check if the Gibson washer wobbles when pushed. If it does, you will need to adjust the leveling legs. Use a level to make sure the Gibson washer is balanced both across the top front and the top side. If the Gibson washer is not level, adjust the legs accordingly until it is balanced. This will help make sure that the water can properly rinse the detergent from the dispenser into the tub, resulting in more effective washing performance.

Repair Instructions:

While the majority of washing machines don't have a dedicated bleach dispenser, if yours does, it serves to direct the bleach to the bottom of the tub where it can mix with the water. If you notice bleach backing up into the dispenser instead, it indicates that the tubing connecting the dispenser to the bottom of the tub is clogged and requires cleaning. To resolve this issue, you will need to clean the tubing to make sure you have proper bleach distribution. It is recommended to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to use bleach in your machine. Following the bleach recommendations provided in the manual will help you achieve optimal results when using bleach in your washing machine.

Repair Instructions:

Undiluted fabric softener is thick and requires water to be properly mixed in order to empty from the agitator cup. The ideal time for the softener to empty is during the first spin cycle. If there is still softener remaining in the cup, you can attempt to clean out the holes in the cup and below it in the agitator. Another option is to dilute the softener by adding more water. Also, if the Gibson washer is not spinning at a sufficient speed, it can cause the softener to remain in the cup.

How to Replace Fabric Softener Dispenser in Agitator

1. Shut off power at breaker box. Turn off power to Gibson washer for safety.

2. Open washing machine lid. Raise lid fully to access agitator assembly inside drum.

3. Remove agitator. While supporting hub, turn agitator shaft on some models counter-clockwise to remove.

4. Locate retaining screw. Look for single screw on underside of agitator securing softener tray.

5. Detach old softener tray. Remove screw and gently lift tray up and out of agitator cavity.

6. Clean mounting area. Wipe any residue from inside agitator where new tray will mount.

7. Insert new softener tray. Set replacement tray into agitator cavity with slots facing forward.

8. Secure with retaining screw. Hand-tighten screw up through bottom of agitator into tray.

9. Replace agitator. Set agitator hub back onto shaft and replace any removed parts.

10. Test operation. Run load with softener to check for leaks or issues with new dispenser tray.