If your refrigerator control panel is dead or responding only intermittently, start by checking the user control and display board—press every button and look for any signs of life, because a faulty user control/display is the most common cause when some buttons fail or the readout is blank. Next consider the dispenser control board and the display board; if the entire dispenser or display is out you may be looking at a failed control board, but if only one dispenser function fails test the individual dispenser components first. Also inspect the wire harness for loose or damaged connectors, and examine the dispenser front panel if the controls are built into that assembly. Finally rule out incoming power issues by confirming the cord and outlet are supplying power and checking the circuit breaker or fuse. For parts and step by step troubleshooting, enter your refrigerator model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part you need for control panel repair, whether you need a user control board, display board, harness, or dispenser assembly.
01 - E-Wave Refrigerator User Control and Display Board
To determine if the user control and display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the user control and display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display is not working, check the power to the user control and display board. If the user control and display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
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The dispenser control board governs most of the functions of the dispenser system. If only one dispenser part is not working, it is probable that an individual part has failed. In this case, test each of the dispenser components before testing the control board. If the entire dispenser system is not working, the control board is more likely to be at fault.
To determine if the display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display board is not working, check for power to the display board. If the display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
The wires from the control panel to the control board may be loose or have become disconnected. Make sure the wire harness connectors are tight. A damaged wire harness will need to be replaced.
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05 - E-Wave Refrigerator Dispenser Front Panel
On some refrigerator models the user controls are part of the ice and water dispensers front panel. If none of the control panel buttons are working, it's probable the main control board is malfunctioning. However, if some of the buttons on the control panel are still functioning, it's more likely the unit's user control and display is faulty. If this component is sold as part of the dispenser front panel, the entire assembly can be replaced.
Ensure power cord is fully inserted into a regular electrical outlet and the outlet is supplying power. Check fuses or circuit breaker if needed. It is best to keep the refrigerator on it's own dedicated circuit and not to use a ground fault receptacle which can interrupt power to large appliances.
Highly Likely
07 - E-Wave Refrigerator Main Control Board
The main control board might be defective. However, the control board is rarely at fault for this problem. Before replacing the control board, first check all of the dispenser components. If none of the dispenser components are defective, consider replacing the main control board.