Once you’ve unplugged your washer, lay the power cord flat against the side of the cabinet and tape it down to keep it from accidentally getting wet or becoming damaged while you work. If you decide to tinker with your washer without first unplugging it, you could be putting yourself at risk of electrical shock. [2] X Research source The lid lock mechanisms on some washers are heat-activated, which means overriding them is as simple as letting them cool off. Let the washer sit unplugged for about 10 minutes, then try lifting the lid. If it opens, you’re all set. If it still won’t budge, proceed to the next steps.
Sometimes, the supply valve dials will be color-coded red and blue to clearly indicate which one corresponds to hot and cold water. [4] X Research source It’s not safe to make any sort of mechanical modifications to your washing machine without first cutting the water supply, even if it’s unplugged.
On certain models, you may need to undo the hinge screws on the backside of the washer’s upper control console in order to lift the top panel.
The lid lock switch assembly will still be connected to its wire harness, which is usually secured to the underside of the washer’s top panel via a series of clips. To avoid making more work for yourself, leave both of these attachments as they are.
Any type of small magnet should do the trick. Just make sure you choose a thin one, like a refrigerator magnet, so you can close the lid completely. The lid lock technology on many older washing machines works by using a strong magnetic charge to keep the lid shut during the wash cycle. Use duct tape to tie down magnets that are poised precariously or won’t rest flat on their own.
This work-around may be useful if you want to be able to throw additional items in later on in the wash cycle without the machine cutting off every time.
Double-check that the attractive side of your magnet is facing down. Otherwise, it may not generate a solid link with the solenoid. If you’re having trouble finding a magnet strong enough to maintain a connection, just unscrew the one that’s set into the edge of the washer lid. You can always put it back when you’re done. [9] X Research source
Place the mounting screws in a shallow dish or similar container so you won’t lose them. If they disappear, you won’t be able to get the switch back in its proper place at the end of your project.
In some cases, it may be necessary to take out a couple of small screws in order to remove the switch cover.
Most washing machine models come with a thin booklet attached to the back or bottom interior portion of the cabinet. Inside this booklet (known as the “tech sheet”) you’ll find a diagram that lays out the exact configuration of your appliance’s electrical wiring. [13] X Research source If your switch has 3 wires and the lid switch and lock switch are assigned to positions 1 and 3, cut the wires on either side of the middle wire. If your switch has 4 wires and the lid switch and lock switch are assigned to positions 1 and 4, cut the 1st and 4th wire.
Messing with your washing machine’s wiring may cause it to stop working correctly, and it will definitely violate the terms of your warranty. Unless you’re confident that you can do this right the first time, call a Whirlpool repair technician.
Stripping the wire just removes the excess material from the cut section, allowing you to work freely and efficiently.
You can also use a strip of electrical tape if you don’t happen to have any spare wire connectors on hand. Smoothing the strands on the ends of the wires before you twist them together will prevent them from sticking out awkwardly and ensure a clean connection.
Unlike standard washing machines, lid lock models won’t stop automatically when you open them after skirting the locking mechanism. For this reason, you’ll need to be extremely careful not to get your limbs, clothing, hair, or jewelry too close to the spinning agitator while you have the lid open. [18] X Research source
