How to Bypass Lid Lock on Whirlpool Washer

Ideally, washers should be serviced/repaired in an authorized service center, to avoid causing more serious problems and to stay within the framework of the appliances warranty. However, not many service centers operate during the holidays and over the weekends, when your washer just refuses to run.

For your washing machine to run, the lid must be locked in its right place, the feature ensures that the washing machine remains closed, up until the washing process is completed. Important to note is that the incorporated lid lock technology is what keeps the lid closed when the machine is running. So while this particular feature is effective, especially for homes with kids it might be a problem when the washer malfunctions and you cannot get the lid to open.

In most markets, you will find that the washing machines have incorporate the lid switch, whose bypass process is very different from that of the whirlpool washer that uses the lid lock. The processes used to bypass the lid switch are different from that of the lid lock because the incorporated switch is magnetic, below are some of the processes used to bypass the lid lock on the whirlpool washer.

Override the Lock mechanism with a Magnet

Using a magnet to override the lock mechanism is the simplest of all the lid lock bypass processes. For this option, you will have to strategically position the magnet where the lid lock connects with the washer’s cabinet, at this point, there is a powerful electromagnet. By placing a magnet at this position helps create a stable electromagnetic connection with the powerful electromagnet, which makes the machine think that the lid is closed when it is open.

Let the washer cool off

If you don’t want to void your warranty then you can choose to use any of these two simple processes. Lid lock mechanisms in some of the washers tend to be activated by heat. The above then means that if you leave your washer to cool off the lid could open. For this process ensure that the washer is unplugged and stays in that position for up to 10 minutes before you attempt to lift the lid.

Find the lid lock switch and cutting the wires

  1. The first safety step is to ensure that the washing machine is not connected to a power socket, so be sure to unplug it and move it away from the wall for easy access. Secure the power cord, on the side of the cabinet, to prevent accidents as you work on the washer.
  2. The second step is to ensure that the water supply has been turned off, and then proceed to find the retention clips, which are normally located on both sides of the upper part of the washer’s front face. Then using a screwdriver, you will attempt to push directly against the clip to release it, the process should be done on both clips to help get rid of the panel.

Important to note is that the screwdriver technique might not apply to all models, you might, therefore, need to improvise or undo the hinge screws, the aim is to get the panel to open. When successful with the above process, it is time to find the lid lock switch, which in most cases it is characteristic of a small back or gray plastic.

  1. Since the washer is still new, we expect the lid lock switch assembly to still be connected to its wire harness that is normally secured on the underside of the unit’s top panel. Find a nut driver and loosen the screws that hold the box in place, lower the assembly. Remove the cover by releasing the retention clips, and with your tech sheet on hand, you will determine which wires to cut.
  2. On the user manual, you will find a diagram that explicates the configuration of your washing machine’s electrical wiring. Most of the switches normally have three wires, with lid and lock switch taking the 1st and 3rd positions, meaning that you will have to cut the wires that are on the sides of the middle wire.

The wires that are cut directly correspond to the lid lock and the lid switch mechanism, using a sharp pair of scissors or pliers you will cut at the center of the wires. The latter will discourage the channeling of electric currents and which will then release the lid lock.

  1. The next step is to strip the insulation at the end of the cut wires up to 2.5cm and twist them together. Then with a plastic wire connector or electrical tape, you can secure the exposed edges. You will then neatly reassemble the newly joined wires into the switch casting, and put back the removable cover.
  2. Ensure that everything has been reassembled back to its rightful positions, plug the washer in and start it up, the above process will allow you to open the lid of the washer even when it is running.

Final word

Cutting the wires of your washer will void your warranty, so the best thing to do is to first try out the magnetic and the cool off, processes if your washer is still new.

FAQ’s

Will my washer work without the lid lock?

Yes, your washer will run without the lid lock

How much will it cost me to replace the washer’s lid switch?

Replacing the lid switch will cost you either $90 or $150

Dennis Vaughn

Dennis Vaughn is a certified plumber and has been offering apprenticeship experiences to most of his employees for the past 12years. Dennis owns and runs an appliance store, and has a team made of different expertise from electricians, appliance repair individuals, and plumbers. According to him dealing with appliances is one thing but the after-sales services are what makes for the loyal clients. Many people don’t know who to call when their appliances break or become faulty, and a good number are not aware of the varieties of appliances in the market tailored to fit their expectations. The above is what necessitated the creation of the extensive excerpts on the washing machine units, which come complete with directions on the simple home repairs.

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