Top Reasons For a Fault Code on a Washing Machine

Identifying the Problems with my Washing Machine

To do this follow the questions below if the answer to the question is “yes” go to the next question.

Does the Appliance Light Up?

If no lights show check supply and fuses. If they are checked and confirmed power is reaching the appliance then suspect a power board/switch or filter problem.

Has the Machine Flooded?

Many newer appliances have a float switch in the base that in the event of a leak will disable the unit until the base has been drained.

Does the Door Lock?

If the door does not lock check the door lock, motor and brushes. Brushes are like the brake pads on a car in the fact that after a lot of use they gradually wear away until they need replacing. Many modern washing machines do a self test when switched on and will not go further if these brushes are worn out.

Does the Machine Have a Fill Error?

The control module monitors the flow or water level in the appliance and if it does not recognise that it has not filled to the correct level within a specified time (typically 2 minutes) it will stop and drain showing an error relating to filling.

If no water is coming in check the water supply, if filling slowly and timing out, check the water supply, it may be a low pressure or restricted. If water is coming in but runs out the drain it may be the drain hose is set to low (below the water level) allowing the water to siphon away before it has filled.

Does the Drum Turn After Filling?

This is most likely on a well used washing machine, due to worn brushes on the motor, or a failure of the motor and/or control circuit.

(See our article on how to diagnose motor problems »)

Does the Machine Heat the Water?

This is not so easy to answer and usually will happen when the appliance has been washing happily for more than 15 minutes. If the machine has not recognised an increase in water temperature (as requested by the selected wash cycle) it may drain and stop showing a code relating to a heater error.

To establish if the appliance is heating try turning it on an empty hot wash. After approximately 15 minutes or as soon as it stops, feel for warmth inside the drum or on the glass.

(See our article on how to diagnose heating problems »)

Does the Washing Machine Empty?

This is perhaps the most common problem and is likely to be due to something in the drain pump stopping the impeller from spinning, or the water being restricted due to something in the outlet pipes or a failed pump.

(See our article on how to diagnose draining problems »)

Does the Appliance Fail to Spin?

Check the spin has not been turned off or cancelled by the controls, and check if it spins on an empty cycle. If it does, check the load balance.

(See our article on how to ensure a balanced washing machine load »)

* 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.