If your Tappan refrigerator control panel is dead or some fridge buttons are not working, the most likely cause is a failed user control and display board — it governs the buttons and readout and will look fine but stop responding. Next, a failed dispenser control board or display board can give the same symptoms, especially if only the dispenser or the visual readout is affected. Loose or damaged wire harness connectors between the panel and the control board are a common and simple fault to check, and on some models the user controls are built into the dispenser front panel so the whole assembly may need replacement. Finally, rule out incoming power issues by confirming the outlet and breaker are supplying steady power. Start by pressing every button and checking for power to the display; if parts are needed, enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your refrigerator and the right control board or panel assembly for your model.
01 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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.