How to check the pressure switch of a washing machine: do-it-yourself level sensor repair

It is impossible to describe the disappointment of a housewife whose favorite Samsung, Bosch, Ariston or any other washing machine suddenly stopped washing properly. The device, which until some point was performing its job properly, suddenly begins to spin the drum without water or to collect it until it flows out of all the technological holes. However, there is no need to panic prematurely. Perhaps the pressure switch on the washing machine has stopped performing its functions correctly. This unit, with certain skills in working with a screwdriver, can be checked, repaired or replaced by yourself.

Before opening the pressure switch

After detecting a malfunction in the system, it is necessary to understand whether the pressure switch was really the cause. Carefully inspect the filling system, examine the hose and fitting of the water intake sensor, its transition chamber. The inspected elements should not contain:

abrasions, tears;
deposits from laundry detergents.

If you find dried detergent on the parts, be sure to rinse the components and try to start the machine again. Perhaps these measures will help restore the functionality of the pressure switch.

Next, you should check the stability of the connection of the power supply wiring to the sensor. Perhaps a wire has become frayed or bent. If a defect is found, fix it and check the washer for functionality.

And finally, it is necessary to inspect the contacts of the pressure switch; if they are dirty, they should be cleaned. Then start checking the water intake sensor. For diagnostics, you will need a tube with a diameter similar to the permanent sensor hose. One end of the tube will have to be put on the inlet fitting of the device, and lightly blow into the free second hole. When the sensor is working properly, it makes a clicking sound. If after such a check no problems were found, it is necessary to disassemble the pressure switch.

How to diagnose an electronic temperature sensor (NTC)

The electronic sensor (NTC) changes its resistance as the temperature rises or rises. This is the basis for how to check the temperature sensor of a washing machine of this type. It is this particular feature of the operating principle that gives a 100% analysis result and makes the procedure simple.

You will need a multimeter; it is switched to resistance measurement mode; you can also use an ohmmeter. Next, the detector values are analyzed when exposed to different temperatures.

It is advisable to clarify the test results: compare the resistance of the temperature sensor, the temperature sensor of the washing machine with the table from the specification for a specific sensor model (data can be found on the manufacturers’ websites).

For example, we learn the relationship between the resistance of a thermal sensor and the temperature on an LG washing machine from the specification table for a specific detector with a certain marking:

Algorithm:

We disconnect the chip and remove the sensor from the socket.
We switch the multimeter to resistor testing mode, that is, to measure resistance - select 200 kOhm.
We attach probes to the sensor contacts and look at the result. The normal value at room temperature (+25° C) is about 6 kOhm. The indicated figure is the standard for most products. It is possible that there may be other parameters, so we recommend checking the technical documentation for the washing machine and the specifications of the detector.
They lower the thermistor into warm water, take repeated measurements, add boiling water and watch how the indicators change. At approximately +50°C the tester should show about 1.5 kOhm. If the value does not change (and it should do this as the liquid cools), then the sensor is broken.

You don’t have to remove the sensor and pour water into the same tank of the washing machine. The principle of such a check is similar to the same procedure for refrigerator sensors, as well as for most household appliances.

Hardware sensor test

Before trying to check the pressure switch on a Bosch Maxx 4 (or Samsung) washing machine using a tester or improvised means, you should weigh the validity of this action. If the washing machine is under warranty, unauthorized interference with the operation of the unit will be grounds for refusal of warranty service by the seller or manufacturer.

Sequencing:

Unplug the power cord from the outlet.
Remove the top panel by removing the two small screws located on the back wall and sliding the panel back and up.
Find a sensor cantilevered to one of the walls of the housing.
Remove the connector, release the fastening (screw), and remove the sensor hanging from the tube from the machine.
Using pliers, open the clamp on the supply tube and remove the device.

Water level switch

Before checking the adjustment of the device using tools, you can evaluate the overall performance of the sensor. To do this, you will need a piece of tube identical to the rubber tube of the relay. Having pulled the device out of the machine, you need to connect it to a short tube, blow strongly into it and determine whether the relay inside the device clicks in response to a change in pressure. If not, the sensor is faulty.

To check the pressure switch of an Ariston, Samsung, LG or Bosch washing machine using a multimeter, you need to:

prepare a device for testing resistance;
place the multimeter probes on the contacts corresponding to the electrical circuit of the sensor;
create pressure in the air tube until a certain relay contact is activated.

If the resistance value does not change when the contact is activated, it means that the sensor must be replaced.

Checking pressure switches

Where and at what price can I buy a water level sensor?

To avoid low-quality crafts, it is better to buy new water level sensors for Indesit washing machines at the service centers of the manufacturer.

When purchasing, you must indicate to the seller the name and modification of the washing machine or the pressure switch code (numbers, letters, signs printed on the body of the part).

The average cost of a pressure switch for an Indesit washing machine is 1,500 rubles.

Replacing the sensor

It is not possible to repair the pressure switch in all cases, so the best solution would be to purchase a new one and replace it. The sensor is supposed to be replaced with one similar to the type and model of the washing unit. Before purchasing a new unit, it is recommended that you do the following:

Clearly rewrite the name of the pressure switch that has become unusable, double-checking each symbol or letter.
Inform the seller of the model to eliminate the possibility of error.

Ideally, you would purchase a marked relay, in accordance with the number written on the sensor housing element.

To install, just use the following algorithm:

Install the tube that was originally removed from the used pressure switch in the same place, but only on a different sensor.
All electrical wires must be connected to the sensor.

3.Using bolts, the pressure switch is installed in its intended place.

The top cover of the washing unit is reinstalled in its intended place, but do not forget about securing it with bolts.
Now you can connect the machine to the electrical network.
Loading laundry into the drum is the next operation.
Set the recommended washing mode and start the mechanism.

After the repair has been carried out, it is strongly recommended to be nearby to observe how the unit functions, so you can conclude whether everything was done correctly. In the absence of comments or other failures, there is reason to believe that everything is normal.

Adjusting the part

In some cases, replacing the pressure switch can be avoided if it is adjusted and configured correctly. To make adjustments, you must have information about the volume of water that the Indesit machine requires to complete the washing program. Depending on their number, there are from 1 to 3 screws on the relay.

In accordance with the amount of liquid required for each mode, these screws are tightened. If you configure the level sensor correctly, you don’t have to spend money on buying a new element.

Finding the exact setting coordinates is not easy, so this type of work is usually carried out by professionals.

How to check the sensor

To make sure the sensor is working, you need to check it. There are several useful recommendations that will help you check the serviceability of the part.

Where is

Before proceeding with dismantling, you should understand the location of the product. Many washing machine owners mistakenly believe that the part is located inside the drum, but this is not the case. Most manufacturers install a level switch on top of the drain body, which is mounted near the side wall. This arrangement is considered very convenient, as it simplifies the removal of the product from the structure.

However, on some models the sensor may be installed in other locations. For example, in modern models of Samsung or Ariston washing machines, the part is installed on the right near the front wall. For cars, the relay is located in the central part of the left side wall.

How to dismantle

It is quite easy to dismantle the pressure switch yourself. However, despite this, you need to familiarize yourself with how to do it correctly. The dismantling process is carried out in several successive stages:

Removing the top cover. To get rid of it, you will have to unscrew two bolts that are located on the back wall. The top cover is then carefully slid back and removed. Detaching a part. The relay is connected to wires leading to the control unit and a hose

Before removing the product, you must carefully disconnect the wiring and hose. Removing the pressure switch. It is connected to the wall with mounting bolts that must be unscrewed.

Checking with a multimeter

There are different methods for checking the functionality of a device, but most often they use a multimeter for this.

It is set in advance to resistance mode, after which the probes are connected to the contacts of the removed part. After connecting the probes, the values on the tester display should change. If the numbers have not changed, then the relay is faulty and will have to be completely replaced with a new one.

Repair features

The pressure switch works according to a specific scheme, which is not complicated. The owner of the washing machine can independently clean the pipe, remove the sensor, or replace the device. A broken water level sensor can cause serious problems with your washing machine. If the user fails to clean or repair the part in a timely manner, the following problems may appear:

water will stop collecting;
the spin of washed clothes will deteriorate;
Over time, the heating element may burn out;
the laundry will be poorly washed;
the tank will overflow with water.

In case of minor breakdowns of the pressure switch, you should not buy a new mechanism; tuning the old device can help with this situation. The sensor is replaced as follows.

Removing the old relay by disconnecting the wires and hoses. The procedure must be carried out with extreme care to avoid unwanted damage. After this, unscrew the mounting bolts that secure the housing.
Installing a new relay. The structure is screwed to the place where the old one was. After this, a hose is attached to it with a clamp and the electrical wiring is installed.

Before installing a new relay, it is worth checking its functionality in advance. Immediately after repair work, the machine should be checked in several washing modes. In order to prevent breakdowns of the pressure switch, experts recommend listening to the following advice.

Do not use the washing machine while idling. Before washing, the drum is filled more than half with liquid. If the device is empty, the sensor will soon break.
Wash exclusively with warm water. For a high-quality laundry cleaning procedure, the temperature of the liquid should not be more than 45 degrees.
Clean the drain on a regular basis. To ensure that water drains from the tank without obstructions, the drain must be cleaned once every 30 days.

Each washing machine is equipped with a pressure switch, which is responsible for the water level in the drum. In some cases, the relay may break down, after which it will need to be repaired or urgently replaced. If it is difficult for the owner to check or replace it, then it is better to use the services of professionals. To increase the service life of household appliances, as well as their parts, it is recommended to use the machine strictly according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

To learn how the pressure switch works, see below.

Operating principle and choice of relay for a washing machine

The pressure switch is made in the form of a round tablet. It is located under the top cover of the washing machine. A tube extends from the body of the part into the tank. The more water the machine takes in, the higher the pressure in the tube rises. As a result, one of the contacts closes and the module sends a signal to turn off the intake valve.

You can select the correct sensor based on the serial number or model of the SMA. The series numbers are indicated on the pressure switch itself, so it’s easier for you to dismantle it and go to the store. There, show the part to the consultant, and he will suggest a suitable replacement.

Signs of a pressure sensor failure are failures in the water filling and draining system:

The liquid is collected until an overflow or leak occurs.
The waste liquid does not leave the tank.
The wash cycle runs normally, but does not go into rinse.
The display shows a fault code.
The cycle begins even though the water has not reached a certain level.

All these “quirks” are associated with incorrect operation of the pressure switch. To carry out additional diagnostics and replacement, the element must be dismantled.

How to replace a relay?

All you need is a screwdriver and a short tube. Unplug the machine by unplugging the plug from the socket. Close the water inlet valve. Unscrew the screws securing the top cover. Slide the panel back and remove it from the body.

You will see a pressure sensor on the side wall. How to remove the part:

In some SM models, the pressure switch is bolted. In others - on latches. In the first case, unscrew the fixing screw. In the second, turn the part clockwise to release the latches.
Disconnect the wiring connectors.

Disconnect the hose. Check it for blockages. Often it becomes clogged with debris that comes from the main line. Therefore, the relay may give incorrect readings.

Before replacing the level sensor, perform diagnostics. Connect a hose of the same diameter in place of the pressure tube. Blow lightly into it. When the contacts close, clicks should be heard. If you don't hear anything, it means the contacts are not working and the part is broken.

Another way to check for serviceability is with a multimeter. Set its toggle switch to resistance measurement mode. Connect the probes to the relay contacts. Blow into the tube and watch the readings on the screen. If nothing has changed, the sensor is faulty.

Prepare a new pressure switch. Reinstall it and secure the mounting bolts. Connect the wires. Put the hose in place and secure it with a clamp.

Without replacing the lid, run the wash cycle on a short cycle. Does water flow in and out normally? This means that the SM repair was carried out correctly.

During operation, it is recommended to clean the inlet hose and filter from debris and rust. Install cleaning filters to prevent small debris from the water supply from clogging tubes, hoses and other equipment parts. The video shows the stages of work:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=T4WqANQOZ9s

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Checking the contents and documents

Take the instructions, which will indicate all the components for the machine. These include hoses, plugs, warranty document and operating instructions

It is very important that the availability fully matches the records

Documentation must be verified. Instructions for use must be detailed, in Russian. The warranty card checks the date of completion and year. The serial number of the washing device and model are also indicated here. Any violation in the execution of this document will be a prerequisite for refusal to service the machine.

If there are no problems with the documents, you can carry out further inspection.

What is a pressure switch?

The main task of this unit is to determine the amount of water collected in the tank by the pressure of its column. Liquid is supplied to the sensor through a tube connected to the bottom point of the washing container. Contact groups are used to transmit information signals to the electronic control unit of the machine.

The more washing modes or other functions the machine offers, the more complex its pressure switch will look. Each group of contacts is activated when a certain amount of liquid is poured into the tank. But in the general case, the assembly looks like a flat, round, tablet-shaped structure, to which a wiring harness fits on one side and a fluid supply tube on the other.

Variety of temperature sensors

An automatic washing machine can be equipped with only one of the following three temperature sensors:

Bimetallic;
Thermistor;
Gas-filled.

Each of these three temperature sensors has its own different capabilities and may differ in design and operation, so each of them is replaced and tested differently.

The bimetallic temperature sensor looks like a tablet, approximately 20-30 millimeters in diameter and 10 millimeters in height. Inside this small tablet is a bimetallic strip. During the process of heating water, when it reaches a certain temperature, the plate bends and creates a closure of the contacts. Under this condition, the heating process is completed.

The thermistor has become a fairly popular element among modern washing designs, which has replaced the temperature sensor.

The thermistor looks like a small elongated cylinder. Its diameter is about 10 millimeters, and its length reaches about 30 millimeters. This cylinder is attached directly to the heating element. The principle of operation of such an element does not involve any mechanical work of the part, but simply changes the resistance during the process of heating the water to the temperature you need.

A gas-filled temperature sensor has only two parts: the first is a tablet made of metal with a diameter of approximately 20-30 millimeters and a height of about 30 millimeters.

The first element is mainly located inside the tank itself, and is always touching the water to change the temperature. The second part of the temperature sensor is made in the form of a copper tube, which is connected to the temperature controller (external), which is located on the control panel of the washing machine. Inside these elements there is a gas, the name of which is freon. Under the temperature of the water, this gas can compress or expand, thereby forming contacts that lead to the heating element.

Description

The pressure switch of a washing machine is a device that controls the volume of water in the tank. The main task of the device is to determine the amount of liquid by the pressure of its column. The relay looks like a disk, inside of which there is an air chamber with wires and a tube. The complexity of the pressure switch design depends on the number of washing modes that the machine is characterized by.

For this reason, the pressure switch from one unit will not necessarily function in another. The sensor is made from high quality plastic; it usually looks like a rounded part. A mechanism is needed for the proper functioning of the washing machine and high quality washing. This simple mechanical assembly consists of the following elements:

frame;
inductor;
magnetic core;
a diaphragm that changes shape under the influence of water pressure and displaces the core;
contact group.

The electronic liquid level sensor may be located in the following parts of the unit.

Under the top cover in classic-type washing machines, where there is a front door for loading things.
In the lower part under the tank in a technique that is characterized by a vertical type of loading of laundry.
In the area of the rear part of the case, slightly below the laundry container, the pressure switch is located in those machines that have plastic drums.

Reviews from our clients

Anastasia

The Samsung washing machine has stopped draining water. The called technician arrived on time and brought a replacement part with him. The repair took about an hour. I'm happy with the result.

Andrey

The drum in the washing machine stopped spinning and called a technician. After replacing several parts, the machine operates as usual.

Valya

I contacted the company after the machine started freezing during the spin phase. The technician who arrived said that it was a program failure. The problem was fixed and a warranty was provided.

Svetlana

The drain hose came off during washing. She quickly turned off the washing machine and called a technician. The specialist arrived with the necessary spare parts, the repair took 20 minutes. Everything works, thank you!

Valeria

The lights were flashing, the hatch door did not open, the programs did not start. They said that the problem was most likely in the electronic module. After replacement, the machine works, thanks to the master!

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Instructions for verification

There is no point in going into the machine without a reason. Before diagnosing the pressure switch in an LG washing machine, it is worth checking for certain signs of a faulty water level relay. A breakdown does not happen without consequences, so the unit will let the owner know about the problem with the following signals:

the drum rotates or the heater turns on without water in the machine;
insufficient or excessive filling of the tank is noticed;
in the rinse mode, the water is pumped out and refilled;
there is a burning smell;
the fuse on the heating element trips;
The laundry does not spin.

Even one present “symptom” is a signal for diagnosing the pressure switch. But you cannot blame only the level relay for problems, since other faulty parts can also lead to similar troubles. To eliminate the error, we take out the sensor and check its functionality.

Unscrew the two screws from the back of the case that hold the top panel.
Press the cover away from you and remove it.
We find a round plastic box of black or white color near the side wall - this is the pressure switch.
Disconnect the connected wiring and pipes from the sensor.
We loosen the fixing bolts and pull out the housing with a long tube going into the tank.

Having taken out the sensor, we begin the inspection. First of all, we assess the condition of the tube visually: there should be no damage or blockages, and the external lamellas on the connectors can only be clean and not oxidized. If problems, corrosion, oxidation or contamination are noticeable, the relay is carefully cleaned and washed. Then we proceed to the actual verification:

we find a hose or tube commensurate with the opening of the pressure switch fitting;
put the tube on the fitting;
bring the block to your ear and the end of the hose to your mouth;
blow into the hose and listen to see if there is a click. There are usually two or three clicks, but some models allow the contact to operate once. The main thing is that there is no silence, which signals a faulty pressure switch.

There is another way - connect an ohmmeter or multimeter to the sensor terminals. If you close and open the contacts, the device should detect a sharp change in resistance. In order not to make mistakes when connecting to the connectors, it is recommended to first study the electrical connection diagram in the factory instructions.

How to find out about a breakdown

A pressure switch is a specially designed part necessary to control the level of water or other liquid and not only in washing units. It is used in many technical devices where it is required. This device signals the remaining amount of gasoline or other fuel in the car’s gas tank, is used in compressor units, and with its help it is easy to control the amount of windshield washer fluid.

Washing, including heating and rinsing in the machine, depends on the water level and the uninterrupted operation of the pressure switch. If a malfunction occurs during the operation of the washing machine, this circumstance can be immediately noticed by the following criteria:

The washing process has started, but there is no or little water in the drum.
The spin program has ended, but the laundry is still damp.
When the tank is empty, the heating elements turn on.
Water is poured into the tank above the established level, and overflow is also observed.
After finishing the wash, the waste water is not drained.
The Rinse program does not start at all.

All of the above may be a consequence of wear of the pressure switch, as well as a violation of the recommendations for operating the equipment. If the filter is clogged, then the water may also not drain, and the heating elements receive a command to start them.

If the voltage indicator is low, then this ultimately provokes a malfunction of the components and individual elements of the washing unit. If the machine cannot be programmed to check the pressure switch, you must check its serviceability yourself. There are cases when it is simply clogged with debris, but most models provide lighting in the event of a failure. It’s not difficult to determine this; just look at the device’s passport or operating instructions. Different manufacturers have their own fault coding, for example:

The technical device from Indesit or Ariston reads: F05 or F11.
Bosch unit: F18 or D 02. D 03.
Popular manufacturer of Lg equipment: OE/
Global manufacturer of household appliances Samsung: E2.
Electrolux company: E F1.
A company engaged in the production of washing units of the Ardo model: F2.

In any situation, you should initially check the sensor yourself, and only then contact a service workshop. Since malfunctions are also possible for other reasons, for example, the pump has stopped functioning, the filter is clogged, or the rubber gasket is installed incorrectly.

The main difficulty when checking is only inconvenience, because the unit will have to be moved away from the wall or the machine must first be disassembled.

How to check the pressure switch?

Check the serviceability of the pressure switch yourself by removing it from the washing machine.

Part removal procedure

Disconnect the device from the network by unplugging the power cord from the outlet.
Remove the top cover by first unscrewing the fastening bolts located on the back of the machine and slightly sliding the cover.
Find the water sensor (usually it is located on the upper side of the side wall).
Disconnect the air compression hose after first removing the mounting clamp.
Without removing the sensor, try to blow out the hose. If it is clogged, this is difficult or impossible to do. In this case, the sensor did not work because there was no excess pressure entering it. The compression tube is cleaned with an elastic wire. Visible damage to the hose is a reason for replacement: excess air comes out of the tube, and the pressure switch membrane does not work.
If the reason is not in the tube, continue to remove the pressure switch.
Disconnect the electrical wire connector. An unreliable (floating) contact at the connector is the reason for the incorrect operation of the washing machine.
Remove the sensor by unscrewing the fastening at the wall of the machine.

Checking legs, hoses, bolts

It is best to start with the bolts that secure the drum during transportation. They are located on the back panel, installed in the right places and fixed. With their help, the tank is not subject to vibration and accidental damage. Any tilt of the bolts hints that the car was handled carelessly during transportation and the tank has moved out of its place. And if it is made of plastic, then, most likely, cracks have appeared on it. It is best to abandon such a car in time.

Let's move on to the legs of the SMA. There are four of them in total, and each one will have to be screwed in to make sure there are no defects. The installation process should go smoothly without any obstacles. Serviceable legs will ensure the evenness of the working body, which will affect its service life.

The hoses must be intact, and they will have to be inspected at least visually

In this case, pay attention to the fastenings so that the diameter of the hoses corresponds to their size. The drain hose, through which water is directed into the sewer pipe, is attached to the back wall of the washing machine and is already connected to the pump

Its structure is corrugated, the material used for manufacturing is distinguished by its thinness. The hose feels fragile to the touch and is highly likely to suffer damage from mechanical impacts. So this element of the machine will have to be checked thoroughly, because it is through it that most leaks occur.

The inlet hose has a denser structure. At its ends there are plastic nuts, with the help of which the hose is mounted to the water pipe and to the machine itself. All elements must be intact and free of chips and cracks. The nuts must be tightened without fail to check the condition of the threads and the tightness of the fit.

The washing powder tray must be completely dry and clean. You can even smell the item to make sure it hasn't been washed with chemicals.

Principle of operation

To find out where this sensor is located in the washing machine, you will have to remove the top cover of the unit. The pressure switch looks like a flat corrugated washer, to which wires are connected on both sides, and at the end there is a plastic tube. There are washing machines with an oval sensor that has only two contacts - a wire and a tube.

The sensor is essentially a pneumatic relay, which is triggered by air pressure created in a tube connected to the tank of the washing unit. The water flowing into the drum creates a certain pressure, the air begins to press harder on the relay membrane, which closes or opens the contacts, allowing current to pass through the wiring and transmit the necessary command to the control unit.

If there is no signal to start the operation, or there is a lack of continuity in the circuit, the control unit stops the program, sending an alarm signal to the display panel. Eg:

LG gives PE signal;
SMA Ariston and Indesit signal with codes F04 and F05, respectively;
SMA from Bosch will tell you about the problem with code F26;
Electrolux has several versions for this case - E11 - E 12; E21 – E22;
Kandy – F03.

If the water control sensor begins to work incorrectly, certain malfunctions may appear in the future:

water will overflow in the tank, the device will constantly draw and drain liquid;
there will be insufficient water for washing, which will deteriorate the quality of the washing machine;
the water after washing will not drain completely; after spinning, the laundry will remain damp;
the program will start without water, after which the water heating element will overheat and fail.

Operating principle of the pressure switch

When a certain water level in the tank is reached (depending on the washing mode), one of the switches is activated. The water level sensor in the automatic washing machine gives a command to shut off the water supply valves. After this command, the flow of water into the tank stops and the machine starts washing. If the wash cycle is changed, the pressure sensor may command water to be added to the tank and then shut off the water supply again.

You can find out where the pressure switch of an LG, Samsung, Indesit or Bosch Maxx 4 washing machine is located by removing the top panel of the unit. The pressure switch looks like a flat plastic (monochrome or multi-colored) corrugated washer, to which wires with connectors fit on both planes, and a plastic tube at the end.

Options for pressure switches

The water level sensor is essentially a pneumatic relay, triggered by air pressure filling a tube connected to the tank of the machine. Depending on the pressure created by the water flowing into the drum, the air pressure on the internal membrane of the relay increases. The membrane, in turn, closes and opens certain contacts, passing current through the connected wires and triggering the corresponding command in the electronic control unit.

The absence of a “response” from the relay to the started operation or the absence of continuity in the control circuit in electronically controlled units causes the washing program to stop and an error signal appears on the dashboard indicator.

Water level sensor

Pressostat error codes depending on the manufacturer and model of the equipment:

LG – PE;
Ariston (Indesit) – F04 (F05);
Electrolux – E11-E12; E21-E22;
Bosch (Maxx 4) – F26 (F19);
Samsung – E7 (E2; E3).

The operating principle of the water level switch of a washing machine is based on the effect of pressure on a special membrane (diaphragm). When water is drawn into the tank of the washing unit, water fills the compression chamber and pressure corresponding to the level of the collected water is injected into the sensor housing through a special tube.

Double-chamber pressure sensors are specially developed for washing machines with small and large loads. When the load is low, one membrane is activated and water is supplied in a minimum amount. When the drum is heavily loaded, the second membrane is activated, the contacts close and the control processor gives a command to supply the maximum amount of water.

As a rule, the membrane installed inside the sensor is made of rubber or elastic polymer and is designed for repeated on and off cycles. The operating principle of the pressure switch combines the sequential influence of air pressure on the mechanical part, above which the electrical contacts are located, and a direct electrical impulse on the control processor of the washing unit.

What malfunctions may occur in the operation of the part?

This type of sensor is considered quite reliable, since its operation is based on the mechanical movement of the membrane under the influence of air pressure. However, the possibility of its failure cannot be ruled out. If this happens, the consequences can be very serious, including burnout of the heating element. And this will already entail significant financial expenses.

Are there ways to check the pressure switch in a washing machine? An ordinary person can do this, even without going to a repair shop.

1. Turn off the power to the washing machine by unplugging it from the socket. Carry out further actions only after completing this step.

2. You need to get to the level sensor itself. Since the relay is located in the upper part of the machine body, you need to completely remove its top cover. To do this, unscrew the bolts holding the cover to the body. The cover slides and is removed.

3. Having found the sensor, you should unscrew the bolts holding it, and then remove the sensor itself.

4. The tube and all wires are disconnected from the sensor body. The tube is secured with a clamp that can be unscrewed. If the electrical wires are held on a chip, then to disconnect them it is enough to simply pull this chip out of the socket.

5. The tube is checked for blockages. If there is a blockage, the tube is washed until it is removed.

6. A visual inspection of the sensor is carried out. If any broken elements are found, the sensor must be replaced. The cleanliness of the contacts is also checked.

7. The pressure switch of the washing machine is checked. To do this, you need to take a piece of tube whose diameter corresponds to the diameter of the removed hose. You can also use the removed hose if it is not dirty inside. One end of the tube needs to be connected to the sensor, and blow into the other end. Moreover, you should not blow hard to avoid damaging the membrane.

The cost of the pressure sensor is low, so if you suspect it is faulty, it is recommended to purchase a replacement and install it on the machine.

Checking the pressure switch

If you have the slightest doubt about the correct operation of the pressure switch, you must immediately replace it with a new one. But before that, you need to gain confidence that the problem is with the sensor. Checking the pressure switch of a washing machine is quite simple:

The top panel must be removed. You can remove it by unscrewing the special bolts and sliding it in the opposite direction from you. On most models, the sensor is located at the top of the side wall.
Experts recommend simply unscrewing the pressure switch. It is usually secured with several screws, which are quite easy to unscrew.
After this, disconnect the tube and contacts from the sensor. The hose is secured with special clamps; they will either have to be carefully disassembled or cut off and then replaced with new ones.

Carefully examine the dismantled pressure switch: there should be no damage or formations on the housing. Check the tube and the condition of the insulating material of the wiring no less carefully. If necessary, clear blockages and repair minor damage. Clean the sensor contacts.

Now let's check the device itself. Typically, a ten-centimeter hose is used for this, identical in diameter to the one already removed earlier. Having connected the tube to the inlet fitting of the pressure switch, blow strongly into it.

At this moment, clicks should be heard from the sensor. Their number depends on the blowing force.

This small device is necessary for the entire system. When it fails, it deprives you of the ability to wash, and can lead to various breakdowns. Replacing the pressure switch in an automatic washing machine is a troublesome, but not complicated process.

Pay attention to the behavior of your machine, and you will be able to notice a malfunction in time

After some time from the moment of operation of the washing machine, any of its elements may lose their functionality. For example, a violation of water intake, expressed in underfilling or overfilling of liquid, will tell you that there are problems with the sensor that controls its intake. It is not always necessary to replace it; sometimes it is enough to adjust the pressure switch of the washing machine so that it works normally. By performing these steps yourself, you will not spend extra money on a new element and will extend the life of the existing sensor.

Call the master

Don't have the time or desire to repair your washing machine? Service center specialists will come to your aid . Contacts can easily be found on the Internet or on the back pages of household appliances.

On average, replacing a pressure switch will cost 1,600 rubles. (excluding new part). The urgency of order fulfillment and the price difference for a new part (original sensors are more expensive) can significantly increase the cost of the work performed.

It is important to remember that the master will be able to announce the final amount to be paid only after a complete inspection and diagnosis of household appliances.

If a specialist demands a full payment before the repair begins, it is better to refuse such services (most likely this “master” is a scammer).

A lot of important and useful information about repairing Indesit washing machines is presented in this section.

Symptoms of a problem

Sometimes it is quite difficult to determine the malfunction of a product, especially for people who do not understand technology. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the common signs that indicate a faulty pressure switch.

Stops drawing water into the tank

People who have their own washing machine often experience that liquid stops filling into the tank. There are several reasons for this problem:

Problems with the valve responsible for supplying water. Liquid enters the system under tap pressure. The supply is opened using a special built-in valve, which begins to operate after a signal from the control module. If it is faulty, the liquid will not begin to flow.
Control module failure. Due to a malfunction of this part, the valve does not receive a signal, and it does not begin to draw water.
Blocker failure. He is responsible for blocking the hatch door. If the lock is faulty, the machine will not start working.

However, the most common cause is considered to be a faulty pressure switch. If this product does not work, the machine will not be able to evaluate and will not begin to fill the tank.

Repeated cycles of water supply and drainage

Modern washing machines are equipped with an automatic liquid collection system. Not only valves, but also level switches are responsible for the flow of water. All these parts function using special commands coming from the control unit.

The control unit perceives this as a failure to comply with the command, and therefore it re-sends the signal to supply water. This results in the supply and drain cycles being repeated many times. Due to repetition of cycles, the washing time can increase significantly.

Reduced rinse and wash quality

Sometimes, after using a washing machine for a long time, the quality of rinsing and washing clothes gradually deteriorates. Many people attribute this to the use of inappropriate powders. However, there are other reasons why things begin to wash worse.

A common reason for poor washing quality is a faulty level switch. Due to the breakdown of this part, the washer cannot determine how much water is in the tank, and because of this, it often does not fill completely. This leads to the fact that the collected liquid is not enough to properly wash and rinse the washed items.

Water remains after finishing washing

There are times when, after completing work, some water remains inside the drum. This can happen because the pressure switch has failed and stopped functioning normally. If it does not work correctly, the control unit of the device will not receive a signal about the need to clean the tank. This will lead to the pumps not starting to work to pump out excess water.

However, there are other reasons for this problem:

Pump filter clogged. Obstruction of liquid from the tank sometimes occurs due to a clogged filter. It will have to be cleaned for the drain to start working.
There is a blockage inside the pipe. During the draining process, the waste liquid passes through the pipe. Experts advise cleaning it once a month to prevent it from becoming clogged.

What factors may indicate a breakdown?

Blockages in the pressure tube, damage to the surface of hoses and valves, overheating and burning of sensor contacts are the main types of failure of the pressure switch. The source of these problems is the dirt accumulating inside the machine.

Also, to avoid machine breakdown, you should pay attention to the following points.

Do not allow the washing machine to idle. Before starting the wash, the machine must fill the tank with water.
The optimal temperature for washing is no higher than 45 degrees. This is enough for high-quality washing of clothes.

A pressure switch is necessary for the entire SMA system. When it fails, it deprives you of the ability to wash, and can lead to various breakdowns. Replacing the pressure switch in an automatic washing machine is a troublesome, but not complicated process. Pay attention to the behavior of your machine, and you will be able to notice a malfunction in time.

The following symptoms indicate that a washing machine malfunction may be caused by a problem with the pressure switch:

Water did not fill the tank, but the machine started washing. The consequence of such a situation is usually the heating element burns out, since the heater must operate in water.
There is not enough water in the tank.
The machine overflowed with water.
The wash is over, but the water still remains in the tank, so after spinning, you take the wet clothes out of the machine.
The rinse cycle does not start.
You smell a burning smell coming from the tank.