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Video Transcript: How to Resolve Pressure Switch Problems in a Washing Machine

Welcome to BuySpares, in this video we will show you how to identify and cure pressure switch problems in a washing machine.

Important: before replacing a part in any electrical appliance, you must ensure that the appliance is first unplugged from the mains.

The water-fill level in most machines is controlled by using a pressure switch. This device usually consists of a chamber attached to the bottom of the drum and a hose connecting this to the switch.

Air is pushed up the pipe by the filling water. Depending on either the cycle used or the wash load on some machines the pressure switch would instruct the control board as it reaches set levels. This will identify if the machine is empty of water.

Low-level for wash, higher level for rinse on some machines or even over filled the control board will instruct the machine to start filling or allow spinning if empty, stop filling if the correct level is reached or start to pump out if overfilled some machines may also use the switch to prevent the heater from coming on if there is no water in to prevent damage to the heater or drum.

These switches are quite reliable generally and more problems generally occur from a blockage of the hose or chamber either stopping air entering or exiting the switch or damage to the hose. If there's a hole in the pipe, the machine will fill, start to wash and refill again until water overflows.

Remove the hose and check for damage and replace if required.

A blockage can usually be cleared by removing the pipe from the switch and blowing back into the tub, if this is unblocked you may hear air bubbling into water in the bottom of the tub. Some new machines use a level sensor or analogue pressure switch. These can be damaged if blown into and may need resetting if the machine is moved before the machine will work.

To reset this, switch off the machine and fill with approximately two litres of water through the soap drawer. Then turn the machine on and onto the drain function, the machine should drain and reset.

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* All information provided is a guide only. BuySpares accepts no liability for any problems occurred while attempting any advice shown. If in any doubt contact a qualified repair service.