How to Know If You Need a New Control Board or Just a Fuse

How to Know If You Need a New Control Board or Just a Fuse

PRS Parts Inc.

When your appliance suddenly stops working, panic can set in fast—but the solution might be simpler (and cheaper) than you think. Before you rush to replace a pricey control board, it’s smart to rule out a much more affordable culprit: a blown fuse. Let’s break down how to tell the difference and what to do next.

What Is a Control Board?

The control board is the “brain” of your appliance. It sends signals to various components to manage cycles, temperatures, and timing. If it fails, your appliance may stop responding entirely, show error codes, or behave unpredictably.

What Is a Fuse?

Fuses are built-in safety devices. If there’s a power surge, overheating, or other electrical issue, a fuse will blow to protect the appliance’s internal components. They’re inexpensive and easy to replace—but can be mistaken for more serious issues.

Signs It’s Just a Blown Fuse

  1. No Power at All
    If the appliance is completely dead—no lights, no sounds, no activity—the fuse may be the issue, especially after a power outage.

  2. No Error Codes
    Many modern appliances display error codes when control boards fail. If nothing is displayed at all, it could be a fuse.

  3. Quick Burn Smell or Pop Sound
    A burnt odor or a quick pop may point to a blown thermal or line fuse.

  4. Easy Fuse Access
    Check your manual: Some fuses are visible and easy to test or replace with a multimeter.

Signs You May Need a New Control Board

  1. Appliance Turns On but Doesn’t Work Properly
    If it powers on but doesn’t cycle correctly—or doesn’t respond to inputs—the board could be sending the wrong signals.

  2. Inconsistent Performance
    Programs start but stop mid-cycle or operate erratically. The control board may be failing intermittently.

  3. Error Codes Displayed
    Models with digital interfaces may flash error codes linked to board failure (e.g., “F01,” “E1”).

  4. Other Parts Test Fine
    If heating elements, motors, and sensors are all working, the control board is the next likely suspect.

How to Know for Sure

  • Use a Multimeter
    A blown fuse will read as “open” (no continuity). If the fuse is good, your next suspect should be the control board.

  • Check the Fuse First
    Fuses are cheap and easy to test or replace—try that before committing to a new board.

  • Call a Technician (or Ask Us!)
    If you’re unsure, bring the part into PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. or contact your trusted repair pro for our opinion or to get you in contact with repair servicers. 

Save Money with a Quick Check

Replacing a fuse costs a few dollars. A control board? Easily over $100—and that’s just the part. Always rule out the simple stuff first.

Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. for authentic appliance replacement parts and expert repair assistance.
We’ll help you figure out exactly what’s wrong—so you only buy what you really need.

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