Replacing the water turbidity sensor in a dishwasher

Millions of housewives around the world have appreciated the benefits of dishwashers. These devices effectively perform routine work for us, using a minimal amount of water and electricity. Automatic washing programs allow you to cope with various tasks (both heavily soiled dishes and delicate cleaning of fragile items). In stores you can find built-in and free-standing dishwashers with a width of 45 and 60 cm. Regardless of the build quality, sooner or later any equipment can fail.

Why do you need a turbidity sensor?

The sensor is inserted into the connector of the drain pump; the sensor’s task is to measure the purity of the water before pumping it into the sewer. It is also called a cleanliness sensor, or simply an aquasensor. The device is an infrared LED and a phototransistor housed in one U-shaped housing. The principle of operation of the sensor is extremely simple: the LED generates a beam that passes through the water and is read by the phototransistor. Information about this is sent to the control module, which can adjust the operation of the dishwasher.

If the turbidity of the water is exceeded, the phototransistor will not be able to receive the infrared beam. Based on this data, the electronics drains the used liquid, fills it with clean liquid and repeats the rinse cycle. This will continue until the sensor gives a signal about water transparency. In addition to grease particles, food particles and scale, the device is also able to detect the presence of detergent residues. To summarize, it is worth noting that the aqua sensor is a very useful option that helps save water and electricity.

What is an aquasensor?

This literally translates to “water sensor”. The name is relative, so the manufacturer suggests calling it an aquasensor for turbidity or water purity. Its main purpose is to examine the water for the degree of turbidity in the washing chamber, to identify how much food waste remains in the liquid, whether there is dishwashing detergent, etc.

Why is this necessary? The process is explained simply - a signal is sent from the aquasensor to the electronic board, the modular device sets certain program actions - it activates the drain when the water is clean enough, or continues washing the dishes, since the liquid is still cloudy.

The option is useful, and it was not installed for the sake of additional “bells and whistles”. It helps to significantly save water, and along with it, electrical energy.

Replacing the aquasensor with your own hands

Like other structural components, the turbidity sensor can break down over time. If you have an understanding of how a dishwasher works and have the necessary tools, you can replace the aquasensor yourself. As mentioned above, the sensor is built into the pump connector, which is installed at the bottom of the device. The algorithm of actions will be approximately as follows:

• disconnect equipment from electricity and turn off water;
• remove the bottom panel (in a free-standing model) or the inner plate (in a built-in model);
• remove the drain filter, lower sprinkler and all hoses (wires) that interfere with access to the pump;
• we find the aqua sensor on the drain pump, unhook the wires from it and press the latches to remove the sensor;
• install the new part into the socket (don’t forget the rubber gasket) and connect the wires;
• Reassemble the dishwasher in reverse order and connect it to water and electricity.

Congratulations, you have completed the job of replacing your water turbidity sensor. All that remains is to check the functionality of the equipment after repair. To do this, we run a test wash with a small amount of dishes (it is best to take small items: plates, saucers, cups). After 2-3 rinses, the aquasensor will calibrate and accurately determine the degree of purity of the liquid. This technology allows you to save 3-4 liters of water per cycle.

How to check the functionality of the water level sensor in a washing machine?

Functionality check

should be carried out in the following order: Place a small hose on the fitting and, bringing the unit to your ear, blow into the hose.
When the sensor
, a clear click should be heard.

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The dishwasher does not work: what to do?

If, after replacing the turbidity sensor, the machine malfunctions and refuses to work correctly, or the quality of washing has noticeably dropped (contaminants are not washed off the surface of the dishes), it is best to seek help from professionals. There is a high probability that during the repair you connected something incorrectly, or the problem was not initially in the aquasensor (or not only in it).

An experienced technician will be able to tell this for sure after performing a comprehensive diagnostic of the equipment. If a serious malfunction is discovered, it is possible that you will have to think about buying a new dishwasher.

For any questions regarding the operation and repair of household appliances, it is best to contact the authorized service center of the manufacturer. Qualified employees will help solve the problem as soon as possible, in many cases even over the phone. You shouldn’t call a repairman based on the first ad you come across on the Internet, because for most of these “specialists,” repairing equipment is just a part-time job, and not their main occupation.

3.4. The processor issues the command “start washing”:

DIY dishwasher repair, DIY dishwasher repair.
The circulation pump Fig. 6 starts working (see number 12 in Fig. 1).

The circulation pump creates enough pressure in the dishwasher to circulate water. Water enters the impellers (sprinklers) Fig. 7 (see number 3 in Figure 1), then into the holes of the impellers.

From the holes of the impellers, water with a certain pressure force washes the dishes loaded into the baskets Fig. 8 (see number 1 in Fig. 1). The impellers begin to rotate, which facilitates the dishwashing process.

The dispenser (Fig. 9) opens (see number 16 in Figure 1) with detergent. Detergent ends up in the dishwasher.

Krona dishwashers

If you are just looking for a good dishwasher at a reasonable price, check out the range of our online store. The Krona company produces built-in and free-standing machines (45 and 60 cm wide), as well as compact desktop models. The devices are designed to load from 6 to 14 sets of dishes. The equipment has a laconic design and thoughtful zoning of the working chamber (there is a 3rd basket). Effective protection against leaks is provided (Aquastop).

An intuitive interface with program progress indication (beam on the floor) provides increased comfort during operation. Supports from 4 to 9 operating modes, including pre-rinse and intensive wash. Many dishwashers are equipped with an aqua sensor (for example, Kamaya 60 BI and Kamaya 45 BI models), which allows you to optimize their operation. The devices can work with 3-in-1 multi-component detergents.

Which PMMs have a cleanliness sensor?

The pioneers in using a sensor that monitors the degree of contamination of the liquid in the dishwasher bin were the brands Bosch and Siemens. You won’t find such a part in cheap designs - it is used only in PMM of the “Standard” and “Premium” classes. So, the sensor is built into the following models:

• Electrolux ESL 94510 LO is a narrow, fully built-in machine with 9 place settings and 5 programs.

• Electrolux ESL 94320 LA is a similar model with similar characteristics.

• Asko D 5436 W is a full-size stationary model designed for 13 sets. Equipped with a “Turbo” dryer and 6 washing modes.

• The Vestfrost VFDW6053 is a full-size fully integrated machine with a hopper for 15 place settings. 8 programs and “Turbo” drying.

• Bosch Serie 4 SMV 44KX00 R is a built-in full-size PMM that can accommodate 13 cookware sets. There are 4 programs in total, with beam projection on the floor.

The price range of these models ranges from 20-40,000 rubles. In more expensive cars, costing 50-100,000 rubles, the sensor in question is almost always present.

Even a small - miniature or compact - dishwasher can have such a sensor installed. The size of the PMM does not matter, the main thing is to ensure efficiency, so feel free to select the appropriate form factor for your future assistant.

In different brands of machines, the option for monitoring water purity has different names. So, in Miele dishwashers it is called “Eco sensor”. Manufacturers of Hotpoint-Ariston brand dishwashers gave the name Sensor System.

So, thanks to such a useful sensor:

• The number of rinses is adjustable to save water;
• Cycle time is reduced;
• Electricity consumption is reduced.

Household appliances with 5-year warranty

Products of the Krona trademark appeared on the Russian market relatively recently, in 1999. The first mass-selling product in our country was kitchen hoods. Users appreciated the reliable equipment at affordable prices. Hoods of all popular formats are still available for order in the corresponding section of the website. However, the range of products is not limited to this; Krona specialists are working on creating a full line of kitchen appliances.

In addition to dishwashers, the company store offers ovens, hobs and microwave ovens, which will be a good help in creating culinary masterpieces of any complexity. All devices are made of durable and environmentally friendly materials. All products come with an unprecedented 5-year warranty. Delivery of orders throughout Moscow and throughout Russia is possible.

8.9. The processor issues the “water fill” command for rinsing:

The water inlet valve is supplied with mains voltage. The valve opens, allowing water to enter the dishwasher. The water level sensor monitors the filling of a sufficient amount of water.

When the amount of water in the dishwasher reaches the required amount, the water level sensor informs the processor that “water is full.”

The processor disconnects the water fill valve from the electrical network, thereby stopping the flow of water into the dishwasher. The processor turns on the circulation pump. Water under a certain pressure enters the rocker arms (sprinklers), and the process of rinsing the dishes begins.

The processor issues a command to turn on the water heating. The water heating level is controlled by a temperature sensor. When the water temperature reaches the required value (the processor is informed about this by the temperature sensor), the heating process stops.

The rinsing process itself continues for some time. The rinsing time is specified in the program, which the processor reads from external or internal memory.

Power supply failure

If the dishwasher does not want to turn on, most likely you are faced with a broken power supply. This problem can also occur if the power button or door lock sensor is damaged.

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If you cannot determine the breakdown yourself, before sending it, carry out the following manipulations:

• If the dishwasher won't turn on, try plugging it into a different outlet, making sure the switch that controls power to the dishwasher is in the active position. It also doesn’t hurt to check that the door latches securely.
• If there is no water in the washing chamber, check if there are problems with the hot water supply in the house. Perhaps the water pressure is too low.
• If you notice water appearing on the floor while the dishwasher is running, pay attention to the gaskets, pipes and hoses leading to it. Perhaps some of these elements are worn out, but the dishwasher itself is in good condition.

The lock Fig.2 is responsible for closing the door (see number 15 in Figure 1). If the door is properly closed, the lock closes the contacts. This is a “door closed” signal to the processor.

Having received the “door closed” signal, the processor sends a command to the drain pump Fig. 3 (see number in Fig. 1

"drain the water." The drain pump begins to perform its function. At the same time, the processor issues the command “fill water” every 5-6 seconds, for 2-3 minutes.

The water fill valve Fig. 4 (see number 17 in Figure 1) opens and water flows into the dishwasher. The drain pump works constantly, pumping out water. After a certain period of time, the drain pump stops working.

The rinsing operation from the previous dishwashing has been completed.

The processor issues the “drying” command:

The drying process begins. To dry dishes, cold tap water is automatically poured into the heat exchanger. All moisture quickly condenses on the cold left wall of the washing chamber and flows into the drain.

After the drying process (15-20 minutes), the drain pump is turned on to drain the remaining water after drying. Then you hear a signal that the washing process has ended.

That's all. This is the basic scheme by which almost all dishwashers operate. After studying the structure of the dishwasher, you can repair the dishwasher yourself.

Additions and deviations from the functions of the main modes are nothing more than additional services from the manufacturer.

About sensitivity and location

Users should remember that the sensitivity of the water sensor depends on the cleanliness of the internal parts of the structure. With excessive use of detergents, as well as the presence of a large amount of scale on the parts of the unit, the sensitivity of the aquasensor decreases. Therefore, it is very important to follow the recommended dosage of cleaning solutions. You should also regularly carry out preventative maintenance on the internal parts of Bosh dishwashers.

If it is necessary to replace a part, you need to open the hatch at the bottom of the structure where the circulation pump is located. This part contains an aquasensor that is easy to replace.

What does an aquasensor look like?

How to connect the dishwasher to the water supply?

The connection to the central water supply system is carried out using a tee. Its main task is to distribute the flow of water between the sink and the dishwasher.

Algorithm for connecting a dishwasher to the system:

1. Close the shut-off valve.
2. Drain the water from the internal pipeline.
3. Disconnect the mixer connection from the water supply pipe.
4. Use FUM tape to seal the threaded connection.
5. Ensure the correct position of the tap by installing a tee.
6. Screw on the mixer pipe.
7. Direct water to the sink by closing the shut-off valve.

After completing the connection process, it is necessary to carry out testing: turn on the machine without loading dishes, and check the connections for leaks.

You can find everything about connecting a dishwasher here.

Wash cold

What are the reasons and what to do:

1. The unit was installed in violation of the instructions. An incorrect connection to the water supply leads to a constant supply and simultaneous drainage of water. Illiterate connection to the sewer can also lead to similar troubles. When connecting the drain hose, 2 elbows must be made: the first at the base of the device, the second at the siphon.
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   If this is neglected, the water from the sewer pipe is directed back into the car. Internal circulation deteriorates, heating noticeably weakens or stops. The solution to the problem is obvious - make the connection according to the instructions.

2. A clog in the garbage filter can impair the circulation of the cleaning solution. It accumulates in one place, the control module regards this as a shortage and performs additional water intake. The heating element does not have time to heat it. Cleaning the garbage filter will help eliminate the cause.
3. The error when choosing a mode is as follows: a program with one temperature mode is selected, and the selector wheel is at the mark of a different temperature value. This discrepancy leads to weak water heating.
4. The pressure sensor is faulty. Its function is to control the movement of water. If the sensor breaks down, water can circulate constantly, which leads to its self-draining. The heating element cannot cope with its duties, and the unit is forced to carry out the washing process with cold water. There is only one way out - replacing the part.
5. The temperature sensor is used to determine the water temperature. Without its data, the control module does not start the heating element into operation. The machine fulfills its mission, but without hot water. You cannot repair a faulty temperature sensor yourself, but it can cause even more damage.
6. The result of a heating element failure is clear - the user will face expensive repairs.
7. The control module is the main device: it analyzes information coming from all nodes and manages their activities. Complex repairs or replacements are inevitable.

Illiterate installation of the machine, an error in choosing a mode, or a clogged garbage filter can be completely eliminated on your own. In other cases, it is advisable to contact a service center.

The processor issues the command “set of water”:

Do-it-yourself dishwasher repair. The water fill valve opens. The dishwasher is filling with water. The level (quantity) of water intake is controlled by the water level sensor Fig.5 (see number 7 in Fig. 1).

The sensor is configured to trigger at a certain amount of water (sufficient for high-quality dishwashing). When a sufficient amount of water has been collected, the sensor sends a signal to the processor.

The processor receives a signal from the water level sensor and closes the water intake valve.

What temperature?

The water temperature in the dishwasher varies from 45 to 82⁰C. Based on the temperature maximum built into the device, devices are divided into high-temperature and low-temperature.

High temperature machines have the ability to heat water up to 82⁰C. Low temperature machines heat up to 65⁰C.

The majority of dishwashers are capable of operating at different water temperatures. The choice of mode depends on the level of dirt present on the dishes and on the personal preferences of the owners:

1. A standard program is an attribute of every dishwasher. The temperature range varies from 45 to 65⁰C, which together with detergents gives excellent results.
2. Intensive washing boasts several cleaning stages. The water heats up to 60-80⁰C. Shows decent results when washing fairly dirty kitchen utensils.
3. The delicate mode carefully carries out water procedures for such sissies as crystal and porcelain. The temperature does not rise above 40⁰C, the process lasts 30 minutes.