How to Replace a Washing Machine Water Level Switch

You do not need to hire a professional to replace the water level switch of your washing machine. You can easily do this job on your own. To get started, here is what you need to do:

Step 1 – Turn off the Washing Machine

Before you attempt repairs or replace parts of your washing machine, turn off and unplug the machine from the power source to avoid electrocution.

Step 2 - Locate the Washing Machine Water Level Switch

The washing machine water level switch is located in your washer’s control panel. Usually, the water level switch is next to the temperature control button.

Step 3 – Check the Hose Attached to the Switch

Check the hose attached to the washing machine water level switch and make sure that it is firmly in place. When the hose is loose, your water level switch will malfunction and water will overflow from your washing machine. In cases like these, you do not really need to replace your switch. Just make sure that the hose is properly attached to the switch and things will be fine.

Step 4 – Remove the Water Level Switch

With the use of your screwdriver, back out the screws that are holding the switch in place. After removing the screws, grasp the switch in your hand and slowly pull it upward. Some types of water level switches are attached to the washer through electrical wires, while others are simply lodged into sockets. If you are not sure how the water level switch is attached to the washer, lift the switch carefully to avoid pulling the wires, if there are any. In case the water level switch comes with some sort of wiring, note the way the wires are attached to the switch before you remove them. Usually, the washing machine water level switch has three connectors and the wires are color-coded so it is easy for you to reconnect them later on.

Step 5 – Test the Switch

There is no need for you to switch on your washing machine while you test the switch. The multitester can detect electrical problems on your washing machine water level switch even if there is no electrical current passing through the switch.

To diagnose the electric problems of your switch, attach the probes of the multitester to the connectors of the switch to get a reading. If the reading shows infinity, then the switch is defective since it can't send power to the solenoid valve, but if the reading shows near-zero resistance, blow into the hose to simulated the water pressure from the tub and it should open the switch if it's functional, if it doesn't, you need to change your switch. Repeat this on every level setting.

Step 6 – Replacing the Switch

To replace the switch, remove all the wires attached to the old switch and connect them to the new one. After connecting the wires to the new switch, put it back in its place and replace the screws. Once the switch is in place, plug the washing machine, turn it on and start filling its tub with water to test the switch. The switch should turn on when the water in the washer reaches a certain level.