How to Fix a Selector Switch for a Washer With Filling Issues

The selector switch allows you to choose which function you want your washer to perform. If the switch has failed, it will not be able to transmit the required signals to the control board and your washer may not fill with water.

What is the Selector Switch?

The selector switch is used to select the washer’s required settings or cycle. If your washer model allows you to select the water temperature for the wash and rinse cycles, the selector switch is one of the components that signals the water inlet valve to open the hot and cold water inlets to fill the machine.

Where is the Selector Switch?

The switch is found in the washer’s console panel.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Selector Switch

1. As with all repairs, begin by unplugging your washer. If you have a gas washer, shut off the gas supply and disconnect the gas lines.
2. Additionally, be sure to turn off your hot and cold water supplies.
3. Shift your washer away from the laundry room wall.
4. Place a towel underneath the hose connection to catch any water that leaks out.
5. Loosen the metal fittings on the hoses, both at the back of the washer and at the faucets, with hose pliers.
6. Loosen any screws securing the console and rotate it toward the back of the washer.
7. Remove the retaining clips connecting the console to the top cover using a flathead screwdriver.
8. In the console, disconnect the wiring harness that runs to the selector switch.
9. Remove the selector knob by sliding it out of position.
10. Pull the selector switch from its slot and inspect it for damage.

How to Test the Selector Switch

A normally open switch should only have continuity after the switch has been actuated. A normally closed switch should only have continuity before the switch has been actuated. The steps below test for continuity on an actuated switch.

1. Set your multimeter to read in ohms on the lowest setting (some devices call this mode RX1 or X1). If your multimeter has a setting that tests for continuity by making a sound, you may set it to that as well.
2. If you have an analog multimeter, calibrate the meter by pinching the probes together while adjusting the needle to read 0.
3. Touch the probes to the wire terminals, actuate the switch, and check the reading – it should read 0 ohms. Alternatively, listen for a sound.
4. Replace your switch if it reads otherwise or if the multimeter does not make a sound.

How to Install a New Selector Switch

1. Reinsert the new selector switch and snap it into place.
2. Replace the selector knob.
3. Reconnect the wire connector to the new switch.
4. Reattach the console to the washer.
5. Push the dryer back into position.

Next: Troubleshooting the Water Level Pressure Switch

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