A washing machine that suddenly stops mid-cycle can be more than a simple inconvenience—it’s a sign that something deeper is going wrong within the appliance. If your washer consistently halts at different stages—whether during filling, washing, rinsing, or spinning—it’s time to consider the real culprit: corrosion on the control board.

Understanding the Control Board

The control board, often referred to as the brain of the washing machine, manages all operations. It receives input from sensors, sends signals to various components, and ensures each step in the wash cycle occurs at the correct time. When the control board is compromised, the machine can’t process instructions properly, leading to unpredictable stops and irregular behavior.

Why Corrosion Happens

Corrosion on the control board usually results from moisture exposure. Over time, this can come from:

• Humidity in the laundry room 
• Water leaks inside the machine 
• Condensation buildup 
• Poor sealing or gasket failures 

These factors allow water vapor or liquid to reach the electronic components, causing oxidation and corrosion of contacts, solder joints, and circuit paths.

Signs of a Corroded Control Board

Besides the washer stopping randomly, there are other indicators that the control board might be damaged by corrosion:

• Intermittent power failures 
• The control panel becomes unresponsive 
• Display flickering or showing error codes 
• Strange sounds during operation 
• Lights on the control panel blinking erratically 

These symptoms tend to worsen over time as corrosion spreads, leading to complete machine failure if not addressed promptly.

What Happens When Corrosion Occurs?

Corrosion affects the conductivity of electronic components. As rust or mineral deposits form, electrical signals may not transmit properly, causing disruptions or incorrect functioning. For example:

• A signal to switch from wash to rinse might not go through. 
• The water inlet valve might not close, leading to overflows. 
• The drum may stop spinning prematurely. 

In some cases, corrosion can create short circuits, risking further damage to other components or posing a safety hazard.

Can You Visually Inspect for Corrosion?

If you’re comfortable with basic electronics and have unplugged the machine, you can remove the control panel and inspect the board. Look for:

• Green, white, or black spots near connections 
• Crusty build-up or discolored solder joints 
• Burn marks or a burnt smell 

However, modern washing machines have complex and sensitive electronics. A wrong move can cause more harm or void your warranty. That’s why professional diagnostics are highly recommended.

Repair vs. Replacement

Depending on the severity of the corrosion, a technician may clean and restore the board if the damage is minor. Specialized cleaning agents and tools can remove build-up, and in some cases, replacing a few affected components can bring the board back to life. But if the corrosion is extensive, replacing the control board entirely is often the only option. A certified technician can evaluate the damage and recommend the most cost-effective solution.

How to Prevent Future Corrosion

• Ensure your laundry room is well-ventilated to reduce humidity. 
• Fix any water leaks immediately. 
• Avoid placing wet clothes or damp items on the washer. 
• Keep the control panel dry and free of spills. 
• Schedule regular maintenance checks. 

Why You Should Call a Professional

While online forums might suggest DIY cleaning or replacement, diagnosing and treating control board corrosion is best left to professionals. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary expenses or cause further damage. Technicians not only clean or replace the board but also investigate why corrosion happened in the first place. They’ll check for leaks, assess gaskets, and ensure your washer is protected against future issues.

Don’t Let a Small Problem Lead to a Big Breakdown

If your washing machine is stopping unexpectedly or displaying other strange symptoms, don’t ignore it. Minor control board corrosion today can become a total breakdown tomorrow. Addressing the issue early can save time, money, and stress. Need expert help? San Diego Appliance Repair Service is ready to diagnose and fix control board issues with precision and care. Our trained professionals know how to detect hidden corrosion, repair or replace damaged components, and ensure your washing machine works reliably again. Don’t wait until it stops completely—call us today and schedule your service appointment!   Contact us (619) 719-5005   [email protected]