An electrical switch that controls the voltage drop across a circuit. It is used to control heat generated by the appliance.

A switch that controls the amount of heat generated by an electric range surface burner. It accomplishes this by quickly cycling the voltage ON and OFF to achieve an intermediate range (e.g. at medium it may supply 100% voltage for only 50% of the time it is switched ON). It does not act like a rheostat and reduces the voltage, to lessen the heat generated, as sometime mistakenly thought.

An electric switch activated by air pressure. This device detects air pressure exerted on it through a flexible tube connecting it to part of a water tub. When activated, this switch then opens an electrical circuit stopping further filling of the machine.

A switch that controls an electric current or the flow of a liquid or gas in response to changing temperature.

A bimetal switch used to open the electric circuit to the defrost heater once a set temperature is reached. The defrost cycle will continue until the timer advances into the cooling cycle; however, the heater will no longer be energized. This thermostat will reset to a closed position once a set colder temperature is again reached. May also be called a DEFROST LIMIT SWITCH.

An electric switch activated by air pressure. This device detects air pressure exerted on it through a flexible tube connecting it to part of a water tub. When activated, this switch then opens an electrical circuit stopping further filling of the machine. May also be called a PRESSURE SWITCH.

A safety device that protects an electric circuit from excessive current. It consists of or contains a metal filament that melts when current exceeds a specific amperage, thereby opening the circuit.

A solid state semiconductor, usually made of Carbo-rundum that produces heat when a current passes through it. It is typically used to ignite natural gas or propane in heating appliances such as ranges, dryers, and water heaters.

An electro-mechanical switch that diverts the current when the flow is changed or when an external current is applied.

An electro-mechanical device that produces a magnetic field, to move an internal metallic plunger, when power is supplied. When power to the electromagnet is discontinued, the plunger is free again to move by other forces. This plunger can be attached to other devices (levers, seals, etc.) to do mechanical work.

A pan-shaped panel used to collect drips, spillage, or condensate.

A device containing screens and absorbent material through which refrigerant gas is passed in order to remove moisture that would be detrimental to other components and the functioning of a refrigeration system.

A device containing a porous material or a material itself, through which a liquid or gas is passed in order to separate suspended particulate matter. Common filter materials are activated – charcoal, polypropylene and HEPA (high efficiency particulate air [filter]).

A resilient or flexible material used between mating surfaces to provide a leak-proof seal. May also be called a SEAL

A piece of plastic used to cover the joint between the inner and outer cabinet of a refrigerator or freezer. May also be called a BREAKER STRIP.

A machine or device for moving or compressing fluids or gases.

An electro-mechanical device used to circulate refrigerant through a refrigeration system for the purpose of transferring heat.

That part of the refrigeration system in which the refrigerant evaporates, absorbing heat from the surrounding area. Sometime mistakenly thought to be that point where the drain pan evaporates the condensate water.

An electro-mechanical clock device that periodically switches from “cooling” to “defrost” to remove the buildup of frost from the evaporator. A possible compressor run time of 6 – 12 hrs. A defrost duration time of 20 – 30 minutes is common.