What appliance components do—and what symptoms can point toward them.
Use component knowledge to understand a diagnosis, not to guess a replacement part.
Drain pump
Moves wastewater out of washers/dishwashers.
ComponentThermistor / temperature sensor
Changes electrical characteristics with temperature so the control can infer temperature.
ComponentWater inlet valve
Electrically controlled valve that admits water.
ComponentHeating element
Converts electrical energy to heat in applicable appliances.
ComponentDoor / lid lock
Confirms a door or lid is secured before certain operations.
ComponentPressure / level sensor
Helps infer water level or air pressure.
ComponentMain control board
Coordinates sensors, relays, motors and user inputs.
ComponentCompressor
Circulates refrigerant in refrigerators/freezers/AC/heat-pump dryers.
ComponentEvaporator fan
Moves air across the cold evaporator and through compartments.
ComponentCondenser fan
Moves air across the condenser on models that use one.
ComponentDefrost system
Prevents excessive frost on frost-free evaporators.
ComponentCirculation pump
Moves wash water through dishwasher spray systems.