134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor is a temperature-sensing component used on Frigidaire washing machines to provide the control electronics with accurate thermal feedback. It is indeed a thermistor-a resistor whose resistance changes predictably with temperature-mounted so it can monitor either water or drum temperature and present that information to the washer’s main control board.
Within the appliance, the thermistor’s role is to supply real-time temperature data to the control logic so the machine can select appropriate cycle parameters, regulate any onboard heating elements, and protect fabrics and mechanical systems from undesirable temperatures. It interfaces directly with the main control board and the cycle management software,and its signals can influence heater relays,timing sequences,and safety interlocks. Proper placement and secure electrical connections are critical because inaccurate readings can lead to improper heating, extended cycle times, or erroneous fault detection.
In this article readers will find a technical overview of the thermistor’s operating principle and expected behavior, guidance on compatibility and identifying the OEM 134587700 part, common failure symptoms and diagnostic indicators, practical troubleshooting steps such as resistance checks and connector inspections, and considerations for safe, correct replacement and verification. The content is aimed at technicians, engineers, and informed appliance owners who need to diagnose temperature-related issues or replace the sensor while maintaining proper system operation.
Table of Contents
- Function and Role of the Control Thermistor in frigidaire Washer Electronic Control Circuits
- How the 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor Works inside the Appliance
- Diagnostic Indicators and Common Failure Symptoms of a Faulty Control Thermistor
- replacement Considerations, Model Compatibility and Installation Procedures for Part 134587700
- Q&A
- in summary
function and Role of the Control Thermistor in Frigidaire washer Electronic Control Circuits
the 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor is a two‑terminal temperature sensor used by the washer’s electronic control board to monitor water and enclosure temperature. Functionally it behaves as a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor: its resistance decreases as temperature rises. The control circuit typically measures the thermistor in a voltage divider or pull‑up configuration and converts that voltage into a temperature value used to time cycles, enable or disable the heater, and adjust wash logic. Because the control interprets temperature through a specific resistance‑to‑temperature (R‑T) curve, a replacement must match that curve and connector wiring to provide accurate readings and proper interaction with the main PCB.
- Common symptoms of thermistor issues: incorrect temperature display or control logic, heater not energizing, extended fill/drain cycles, or a temperature‑sensor fault reported by the controller.
- typical failure modes: open circuit, intermittent connection, or shifted R‑T characteristics from thermal or mechanical stress.
- Compatibility note: mechanical fit and connector type matter,but electrical R‑T curve and two‑wire polarity are decisive for functional interchangeability.
For practical troubleshooting, isolate the thermistor and measure its resistance at known ambient and warm conditions with a digital multimeter; a working device should show a monotonic resistance change with temperature rather than an open/short. Inspect the harness and connector for corrosion or broken wires before replacing the sensor. When replacing,use the OEM part or a verified equivalent that matches the original R‑T specification; mismatched curves can cause the control board to under‑ or overestimate temperature and lead to improper cycle behavior. In installations where the thermistor is mounted near the heater or tub, ensure correct seating and strain relief to avoid heat‑related drift or mechanical fatigue over time.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Two‑terminal NTC thermistor used as temperature sensor for control board |
| Function | provides temperature‑dependent resistance to the control’s voltage measurement circuit |
| Failure signs | Open/short, inconsistent resistance change, connector/wiring faults |
| Replacement guidance | Match R‑T curve and connector; verify with resistance‑vs‑temperature check before installation |
How the 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor Works Inside the Appliance
The 134587700 frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor used by the washer control to monitor wash-basin or inlet water temperature and make control decisions such as heater activation, cycle timing, and temperature-based program selection.This device is typically an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor: its resistance decreases as temperature rises.The control board reads the thermistor as part of a voltage divider or ADC input and converts those resistance changes into a temperature value according to a known sensor curve. In practice, the thermistor’s electrical characteristics and mounting position determine the accuracy and response time – a sensor mounted close to the tub or inlet will track water temperature faster than one mounted behind the control panel, which affects how the machine sequences fills, heats, and times soak or rinse steps.
- Symptoms of a failing thermistor: inaccurate or inconsistent water temperatures, user-observed long heating times, control errors related to temperature sensing, or a resistance that is open/short when measured.
- Field test: disconnect the sensor and measure resistance at ambient, then warm the sensor slightly (hot water or heat gun briefly) to confirm resistance drops; compare behavior to expected NTC response rather than exact values unless curve data is available.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | NTC thermistor; resistance decreases with increasing temperature |
| Function | Provides a resistance-based temperature signal to the washer control board for cycle and heater control |
| Interface | Two-wire low-voltage connection; must match control harness and sensor curve for correct readings |
| Service note | Replace with a part that matches electrical characteristics and connector; verify by measuring resistance vs. temperature during troubleshooting |
Compatibility and practical repair considerations center on matching the sensor curve and connector pinout to the original part: replacing with a thermistor of different resistance characteristics can produce incorrect temperature readings even if the connector fits mechanically. When diagnosing, technicians should check wiring continuity and the board input as well as the sensor itself as some faults mimic a bad thermistor (open harness, corroded connector, or a failed input on the control). In service scenarios, document the measured resistance behavior and compare it to the manufacturer’s service data or replace with a verified 134587700 equivalent; secure mounting and correct immersion or exposure to the water path are necessary to maintain expected thermal response and avoid slow or biased measurements.
Diagnostic Indicators and Common Failure Symptoms of a Faulty Control Thermistor
the 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor is a temperature-sensing element that provides the washer control board with real-time water or drum temperature feedback. This thermistor is an NTC-style sensor whose resistance falls as temperature rises; the control logic uses that resistance-to-temperature relationship to regulate heater operation, cycle timing, and soak/rinse decisions.Typical failure modes include open circuits, intermittent connections at the harness/plug, and resistance drift that causes the board to read temperatures consistently high or low. In practice, a bad thermistor will not produce mechanical noise, so observed cycle anomalies frequently enough trace to incorrect temperature reporting rather than a moving-part fault.
Technicians diagnose a faulty control thermistor by correlating symptoms with electrical measurements and visual inspection. Common observable symptoms include incorrect water temperature, extended heating times, premature cycle termination, or repeated attempts to reach a target temperature; physical signs include corroded connectors or damaged wiring.Useful diagnostic checks are a resistance-vs-temperature sweep with a digital multimeter and a wiggle test at the harness to catch intermittency. The list below summarizes common failure symptoms and speedy checks, followed by a compact technical reference to expected sensor behavior and diagnostic outcomes.
- Washer fails to reach or maintain set temperature; heater runs continuously or not at all.
- Cycle times are longer than normal as the controller retries temperature targets.
- Intermittent errors or cycle stops coincident with tapping/wiggling the thermistor harness.
- Visible corrosion, pin damage, or insulation breaches at the thermistor connector.
- Measured resistance that does not change predictably with temperature (non-monotonic behavior).
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Sensor type | NTC thermistor – resistance decreases as temperature increases |
| Diagnostic check | Measure resistance at known temperatures; verify monotonic decrease; inspect harness continuity |
| Common failure readings | open circuit (infinite Ω), short/near-zero Ω, or resistance out of expected trend versus temperature |
Replacement Considerations, Model Compatibility and Installation Procedures for Part 134587700
The 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor is the temperature-sensing element that the washer’s electronic control uses to monitor internal temperature and make timing or heater-related decisions. This thermistor is typically an NTC device, so its resistance falls as temperature rises; the control board reads that resistance and converts it to a temperature value used to advance cycles or enable temperature-dependent functions.Faulty behavior typically manifests as incorrect temperature readings, repeated temperature-related error codes, or affected cycle selection (for example, wash cycles that fail to reach the expected temperature).Technicians validate operation by measuring resistance across the thermistor and comparing the reading to the model’s service literature or to a known-good part; many washer thermistors read in the kilo-ohm range at ambient temperature, but always confirm the exact resistance curve for the specific model before replacing the part.
- Power off and unplug the washer before accessing the control console.
- Remove the console or rear access panel to reach the thermistor harness; note connector orientation and routing before disconnecting.
- Compare the replacement part number and physical connector to the original to ensure compatibility with the cabinet harness and control board.
- Install the new thermistor without stressing the wires, reconnect the harness, and secure any clips or grommets to prevent chafing.
- After installation, verify sensor behavior with a resistance check and run the appliance’s diagnostic or a relevant cycle to confirm proper operation.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | provides temperature feedback to the washer control for cycle timing and temperature control. |
| Sensor type | Typically NTC thermistor (resistance decreases as temperature increases). |
| typical bench test | Measure resistance at ambient and at a second known temperature; expect a decreasing resistance with rising temperature. Refer to service manual for exact values. |
| Installation note | Match connector and harness routing; secure wiring and power down the appliance before replacement. |
Compatibility considerations include verifying that the replacement is listed for the specific frigidaire model and control board revision, since connector styles and harness pinouts can change between series. Cross-referencing the washer’s model number with parts lists or a service manual prevents common misorders; if the connector differs, an adapter or harness change may be required rather than swapping the thermistor alone.After fitting the replacement, perform a post-installation verification: confirm expected resistance at ambient, then observe the control’s temperature readings during a short test cycle or diagnostic mode to ensure the control interprets the sensor data correctly and no temperature-related error codes persist.
Q&A
What is the 134587700 Frigidaire washer control thermistor and what does it do?
The 134587700 thermistor is a temperature sensor used on some Frigidaire washers.It reports water or tub temperature to the washer’s control board so the machine can select the correct wash/heater behavior and timing. It is indeed typically an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor,which means its resistance falls as temperature rises.
What symptoms indicate the thermistor may be bad?
Common signs include incorrect or inconsistent water temperatures, wash cycles that run too long or never move past a step, temperature-related error messages, poor cleaning performance, or the heater not engaging when it should. If the sensor is open-circuit or gives erratic readings, the control may abort or alter the cycle.
Where is the thermistor located on the washer?
Location depends on the model, but it is usually clipped to the inner tub, mounted near the heater or in a temperature-sensing pocket, or attached to tubing near the water inlet. Consult the washer’s service manual or parts diagram for the exact position for your model.
How do I test the thermistor with a multimeter?
First disconnect power. Access and unplug the thermistor connector from the harness.Set a digital multimeter to the ohms (Ω) range.Measure resistance at room temperature and record it, then warm the sensor slightly (hair dryer) and observe that resistance decreases; cool it (ice/wet cloth) and resistance should increase. A good thermistor will show a smooth change in resistance with temperature; an open circuit, a fixed value that does not change, or wildly erratic readings indicate a failed sensor.
Are there specific resistance values I should expect?
Resistance vs. temperature values vary between thermistor designs and are specified by the manufacturer. As different models use different thermistor curves, compare readings to the service manual or the replacement part specification for your machine. If you don’t have the spec, the important check is that resistance moves in the correct direction (drops with heat) and does not read open or shorted.
How do I replace the 134587700 thermistor?
Unplug the washer. Gain access to the thermistor (usually via the rear panel or top/control area per your model). Unplug the wiring connector, remove the retaining clip or screw, and swap in the replacement part. Reconnect the harness, secure the sensor, reassemble panels, and restore power. No special programming is normally required-power-cycling the machine is typically sufficient. Use proper safety precautions and consult your model’s service instructions.
Can I use an aftermarket replacement, or should I buy OEM?
You can use an aftermarket sensor if it matches the original thermistor’s electrical characteristics (resistance vs. temperature curve), connector type, and mounting style. However, using the OEM part (134587700) ensures compatibility and reduces troubleshooting time. Verify part compatibility with your exact model number before buying.
If I replace the thermistor and still have problems, what else should I check?
Check the harness and connector for corrosion, damage, or loose pins; verify the control board’s sensor input circuitry; inspect the heater element (if equipped) and its relay/fuse; and make sure water inlet and circulation systems are functioning. Intermittent wiring faults or a failing control board can mimic a bad thermistor,so test wiring continuity and board signals if problems persist.
In Conclusion
The 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor plays a critical role in sensing water temperature and communicating that information to the washer’s control board, enabling accurate cycle selection, efficient energy use, and appropriate fabric care. As an integral diagnostic input, the thermistor helps the appliance maintain consistent wash temperatures, regulate heater operation when present, and ensure that programmed cycles perform as intended.
Because symptoms of thermistor degradation can mimic other electrical or control failures-such as incorrect temperature readings, unexpected error codes, or irregular cycle behavior-proper diagnosis is essential.Verifying thermistor resistance values against manufacturer specifications, inspecting wiring and connectors, and following the washer’s service documentation reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and unnecessary parts replacement.
When testing confirms that replacement is required,installing the correct 134587700 Frigidaire Washer Control Thermistor and following safe service procedures restores reliable temperature sensing and helps maintain overall appliance performance. For complex diagnostics or if there is uncertainty about procedures, engaging a qualified technician is recommended to ensure accurate repair and safe reassembly.
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