Electrical gurus chime in...

edbert

A switch in the controls for my ice maker has gone out and I need to replace it. First, can I purchase this locally for a decent price and if so, where would I look(DFW area). Second, if the prices are too high locally, could I order this from PartsExpress even though mine is 5A at 125 or 250VAC?

Thanks!

Eric

edbert

Thanks! Too bad NJ isn't closer to TX. Is this something Radio Shack would have or do I probably need to find an appliance parts place around here?

snow

edbert wrote: »

Thanks! Too bad NJ isn't closer to TX.

Actually thats probally a good thing, could you imagine mating the best/worst customs, foods, personalities etc of the two together



REGARDS SNOW

Sami

edbert wrote: »

Thanks! Too bad NJ isn't closer to TX. Is this something Radio Shack would have or do I probably need to find an appliance parts place around here?

You could try Fry's.

This seems similar but doesn't have any detailed description online: http://www.frys.com/product/2314329#detailed

The closest to you might be their Plano location: http://www.frys.com/isp/plano.html

edbert

Thanks Sami. Totally forgot about Fry's. I know exactly where that one is in Plano. I'll head there in the morning.

Thanks gents for the quick responses. This will make the Mrs. extremely happy.

maximillian

You need to ensure proper electrical rating (your alternatives are good) and proper mechanical fit. I would try a local appliance repair store first. The manufacturer of the icebox will have a list of repair locations either on their website or give them a call. They should have one in most major cities.

edbert

Thanks Max. I took a picture of how everything looked before I took it out so I would know how to put it back in. Either way I know a guy that runs an appliance parts store, but he's out in AZ now and the store here is not as close as Fry's.

Gadabout

Before you buy a switch you need to see if the one that is installed is normally open or closed. My guess is; it is normally open and when the switch is activated closes the circuit.

There are also the micro switches that can be either (normally open or closed). They have a third lug and depending on where you hook up the wires determines which way the switch operates.

Fry's might have what your looking for (as Sami said). Match the amps, and check the operating conditions and see if it has a valid temp rating for where the switch is located.

Also, usually a quick call to the customer service folks of your fridge manufacturer with the model # will have them shipping you a new switch.

Hope that helps,
Scott

edbert

Thanks! I actually got it fixed and it is making ice! The previous switch was a 5 amp and the new one is a 15 amp. There are a total of three switches in an icemaker. Two are like the one that I had to replace and the other is slightly different. Either way, everything is in good working order and the wife is happy!