Frigidaire Washing Machine: not switching cycles

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Frigidaire washing machine is not switching cycles, it may start but fail to progress through wash or rinse cycles, or stop mid-cycle. This issue could stem from problems like a malfunctioning water inlet valve, a faulty lid switch, or even an unbalanced load. Understanding these common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Frigidaire Models

  • Frigidaire washers documented to have mid‑cycle stops related to inlet valve or control issues

Possible Causes

Water inlet valve malfunction or water fill issues

How to Identify: Washer stalls at a fill stage or waits for water but cycle does not advance; possible poor fill or no water flow.

Part: Water inlet valve / inlet screens

Lid/door switch assembly failure

How to Identify: Cycle stops mid‑cycle, particularly before spin, if lid switch detects lid open or fails continuity.

Part: Lid switch assembly

Control board/timer or actuator switch failure

How to Identify: Washer does not advance cycles at expected times, random stops, or inconsistent behavior.

Part: Control board / timer actuator

Unbalanced load causing automatic stops

How to Identify: Washer pauses mid‑cycle or won’t advance when load is too small, too large, or unevenly distributed.

Part: Load balance / sensors

Pressure switch / water level sensor fault

How to Identify: Washer may not detect correct water level causing it to hang on cycle stages.

Part: Pressure water level switch

DIY Solutions

Clean inlet screens and check hoses

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: wrench, bucket, towels
  1. Turn off water supply and disconnect inlet hoses.
  2. Remove hoses and clean screens on washer inlet and hoses.
  3. Reconnect hoses ensuring no kinks and turn on water to test flow.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off power and water before disconnecting hoses.

Redistribute laundry load

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Pause washer and open lid/door.
  2. Redistribute clothes evenly in the drum.
  3. Remove some items if overloaded and restart cycle.

Test lid switch for continuity

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver
  1. Unplug washer and access lid switch assembly.
  2. Use multimeter to test continuity when lid is closed.
  3. Replace lid switch if no continuity detected.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before accessing wiring.

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $60 - $150

Replace control board or timer

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

Replace lid switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

When to Call a Professional

After checking hoses, screens, load balance, and lid switch continuity if issue persists
If internal components like control board or water inlet valve are suspected
If error codes appear or wiring inspection needed

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean inlet screens and hoses: Water fill issues that can stall cycles
    Frequency: every 3-6 months
  • Avoid overloading washer: Unbalanced load interruptions
    Frequency: each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire Washing Machine not switching cycles?
Common causes include water inlet valve malfunction, lid switch failure, unbalanced load, or control board issues.
How do I fix Frigidaire Washing Machine not switching cycles myself?
You can clean inlet screens, redistribute the load, or test the lid switch for continuity.
How much does it cost to fix not switching cycles?
Professional repairs can range from $40 to $350, depending on the part that needs replacement.
When should I call a technician for not switching cycles?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions fail or if the issue seems complex and requires expert repair.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty timer or control board
  • Defective lid switch
  • Wiring issues or loose connections

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the timer or control board. Unplug the machine, access the control panel, and inspect the timer for any visible damage. If faulty, replace it with part number 131436800.

  2. Test the lid switch for continuity. If it is defective, replace it. This can be done by unplugging the machine, accessing the lid switch, and using a multimeter to check for continuity.

  3. Inspect wiring and connections for any signs of wear or loose connections. Tighten or repair as necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Frigidaire Washing Machine FWS445RFS2

Community Discussions

won't switch between cycles

Bad timer, part number 131436800

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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