How to check the water level sensor in a dishwasher?

All dishwashers are required to be equipped with a device such as a water level sensor, which is also called a pressure switch. Thanks to its installation, the washing unit automatically determines the liquid level, and the device is easily adjusted for subsequent washing of dishes.

As long as the dishwasher is working normally, no intervention in its functions is required, this applies to modern models – electrolux and others. If the device for washing kitchen utensils begins to take in excess water or the dishwasher does not take in water at all, which is necessary for proper washing, you should first check whether the pressure switch is working properly. In the event that the device malfunctions during operation, and other components of the device begin to work incorrectly, then you should turn to the services of professional technicians.

Sensor types

There are 2 types of pressure switches installed on machines:

Mechanical devices. If small holes appear on the relay plate, there is every reason to assume that such an element can allow liquid to pass through. But if this happens during operation, the clicks characteristic of switching operating modes are heard, problems will not arise. If such clicking sounds are not heard, you should check the relay for sticking contact groups.

Electronic sensors. Operating modes are switched using an electronic design that operates under low voltage conditions. Checking the functionality of the working electronic board cannot be done using high voltage devices. If an appliance malfunction occurs, the dishwasher will alert you with an error code.

In any case, if a malfunction occurs, regardless of the type of element, repair or replacement must be carried out as soon as possible.

Useful tips for repairing dishwashers

And in conclusion of our article, some simple, but nevertheless useful tips from professional repair and replacement parts specialists:

Feel free to record all your actions: take notes, photograph or videotape the dismantling stages. The fact is that the inside of dishwashers can vary greatly from model to model. You can easily confuse something here, including the location of small parts or the order of actions, so we recommend that you protect yourself.
When replacing a membrane or water sensor, you will have to deal with the dismantling of many parts, so prepare small boxes or bags in advance where you put all the removable screws, the risk of missing a couple of pieces is quite high.
Be careful with plastic fasteners and latches; they can easily be broken by careless or rough pressure.
There is no point in repairing many dishwasher parts, since they are produced “disposable”, that is, if they break, they can only be replaced.

Here

How to find out about a breakdown?

The main function of this device installed in a bosch dishwasher is to constantly monitor the required liquid level. If the device begins to work incorrectly, this means that the working tank of the unit is probably overfilled, which will lead to poor cleaning of kitchen utensils and flooding

To avoid such problems, you must carefully monitor the fluid level in the work tank. If you notice that it exceeds the norm, this indicates a failure of the pressure switch.

Typically, breakdowns of the water sensor in any dishwasher occur for the following reasons:

Wear of device parts.
The contacts on the device connections have undergone an oxidation process.
Poor quality of dishwasher components, which limits the service life of the pressure switch.

Dishes are not clean enough after washing

Check that the hearth level, pressure and temperature are correct.

Clean the fine filter and inlet water filter

Check detergents, sprinklers and valves.

Make sure that the detergent is designed specifically for washing dishes in the dishwasher. It is also necessary to check the valves and hoses for dried elements that interfere with the passage of water.

Checking inlet and drain valves.

Make sure the valves operate continuously and reliably. Also check the motor timer and heating element. Check the bimetallic sensor last.

WARNINGS:

• Always turn off the device before testing components. If you encounter difficulties or are not confident in your abilities, it is better to invite a specialist.
• For safety reasons, when working with electrical appliances, you should always wear shoes with rubber soles, especially if the room is damp. Also use isolated tools. This safety will help protect you from electric shock.

How to replace a device in a unit?

Before you begin the process of replacing this device, you must take into account that each individual brand of dishwasher has its own unique device installed. This means that when choosing a new element, you must carefully read its parameters to select the correct part. Once you have purchased the required device, you should replace it.

They do this work this way:

Initially, carefully remove the rear wall of the machine.
Afterwards, the connection hose is removed under the level sensor.
The part is removed from its location, and the connector used for connection is also removed.
The structure is assembled in the reverse order.

After installing a new part, you must check whether the installation was carried out correctly, for which you need to start the unit. With proper assembly, the liquid level in the working chamber should be optimal.

Safe operation and high-quality cleaning can only be ensured by a working device, so you should check it for serviceability more often. In any case, it is better to prevent its failure than to waste time and money on replacing it in the future. Therefore, be sure to follow the operating rules of the dishwasher and clean the drain from blockages 2-3 times a month.

The dishwasher greatly simplified the housewife’s work by relieving her of daily dishwashing. Having loaded dirty dishes into the machine and started it, you can devote time to other things, and in the meantime, your kitchen utensils will be thoroughly washed and dried. But sooner or later, an indicator will flash on the machine’s display, which draws the user’s attention to a breakdown or failure of parts.

What does error code e24 mean on the dishwasher screen? Read our article.

The main types of dishwasher problems

Your dishwasher requires proper care. After each use, it is recommended to wipe and dry the household appliance. It is better not to store dirty dishes inside the dishwasher to avoid the appearance of foreign odors. It is also recommended to remove clean plates and mugs from the machine after the end of the washing program, but after they have completely dried.

The program does not start, the machine does not turn on

This situation happens quite often with Bosch brand models: the indicators are on, water is poured, the machine heats up, but after filling the water the process stops, the dishes are not washed, the indicators go out. Possible causes of dishwasher failure:

The filter located at the bottom of the household appliance is severely clogged. It must be washed using gentle detergents and reinstalled. Cleaning the filter from dirt should be done regularly for long and successful use of the device.
Another problem is clogging of the nozzles, as a result of which the dishwasher does not spray water. To clean the nozzles, use an ordinary toothpick, which can easily be used to punch holes for water to enter. Clogged nozzles are also to blame for the decrease in pressure during the washing process. The pots are very difficult to wash, and you have to wash the plates yourself every other time.
The circular pump, whose function is to supply water to the nozzles, has failed. This breakdown cannot be eliminated without disassembling the dishwasher and completely replacing the pump with a new one. The broken unit is located at the bottom of the chamber. To accurately verify the output of the circular pump, you need to listen to the operation of the device. However, we can absolutely say that if there is no noise after filling the water, this element is to blame.
Another problem is related to the motor winding. In order to make sure that the engine is working properly, you need to check it with a multimeter for short circuits and open circuits.

The water is overflowing

The water began to overflow, which means the water sensor level is to blame. The faulty element is located at the very bottom, so to remove it you need to turn the dishwasher over. The water level sensor cannot be restored. That is why, at the first sign of a malfunction, a complete replacement of the sensor is recommended.
If the power is turned off and filling occurs, then a solenoid valve is sent for replacement, which shuts off the water and prevents it from filling

Water temperature during operation

The temperature sensor is responsible for overheating or insufficient heating. Error code e03 indicates that the water in the dishwasher takes a long time to heat up. A broken sensor indicates that steam is forming in the chamber, which affects the general condition of the machine.

If the temperature is unreasonably low, there can be quite a few reasons:

Interruptions with the temperature sensor.
There is no required pressure in the chamber.
The heating element is not working.

Most common reasons

Dishwashers of high quality and value indicate by flashing the indicator when the filter is clogged. Such a nuisance usually happens if the housewife does not clean the kitchen utensils in time before putting them in the tank to remove any leftover food. After some time, food debris clogs the filter element. As soon as the filter is full, the water supply indicator flashes.

Also, malfunctions during the operation of the dishwasher may occur due to the following reasons:

The electrical outlet is faulty.
A door that is not tightly closed allowing liquid to pass through.
Uneven and improper placement of dishes in the tank.

But there are times when none of the above reasons is suitable for a particular situation; when the faucet indicator blinks, you should look for other reasons, which may include:

Failure of the water hose connected to the dishwasher.
The filter element of the fluid release valve is dirty.
Inlet valve defects.
Incorrect drain hose connection.
Unauthorized activation of the “Aqua-stop” function.

There are several other dishwasher problems that cause the indicator on the control display to blink. If it is impossible to independently detect and solve the problem, the best way out of the situation is to call a specialist to repair this equipment.

Modern dishwashers have not only standard programs, but also additional functions, which include automated washing of kitchen utensils, thanks to the built-in “Aqua sensor”.

Replacement nuances for different dishwashers

The method for replacing the inlet valve in dishwashers from different manufacturers is not too different.

There are models with lower and upper water supply (location of the connecting pipe), so the method of disassembling the machine will depend on the type of structure.

Some models are more convenient to lay on their side, others just need to be turned around and slightly tilted, leaning against the wall.

For Bosch dishwashers, the optimal method is a complete revolution, since all the main components are located in the bottom area. Otherwise, the replacement procedure is almost the same.

Tools

only regular tools:

Phillips or slotted screwdriver;
pliers.

Depending on the model and design features of the PMM, other tools may be required; this is determined during dismantling.

Preparation

Before starting the actual replacement, you need to perform several preparatory steps:

close the water supply valve (outlet from the pipe to the PMM);
disconnect the machine from the power supply;
disconnect all hoses (especially the water supply hose;
Partially disassemble the housing to get to the valve.

Finding the element does not present any significant problems, since most machines have a supply hose attached to it. However, for some models you will first have to disassemble the body of the AquaStop system.

Replacement procedure

Replacing a part consists of the following steps:

All hoses and wires are disconnected from the defective device. It is recommended to take a photograph of their location so that you have a sample before your eyes when assembling.
Remove the used valve and install a new one.
Connect all the wires to it, attach the hoses.

The procedure is not complicated and is quite accessible to any home craftsman.

The principle of operation of the “Aqua-sensor”, its necessity

“Aqua-sensor” is a water turbidity sensor for a dishwasher, consisting of a phototransistor and an infrared LED located on the same board. Their location is protected by a light-proof box with a curved configuration similar to the letter “U”. A stream of infrared rays from the photodiode passes through the water in the tank and reaches the phototransistor. If the water is clean then the control board receives a signal, the washing program changes functions in which clean water is used again, another is not poured in and the additional rinse is canceled. When the water is sufficiently contaminated and the light intensity is not enough to trigger the phototransistor, the Aqua Sensor processor informs the control unit that there is no signal, which is perceived as clouding of the water. After each rinse, the sensor is calibrated and the purity of the liquid is determined. This automatic method of washing kitchen utensils makes it possible to save up to 4.5 liters of water with good quality washing of loaded products.

Replacing the Aqua sensor - water turbidity sensor

You need to know that the sensitivity of the Aqua Sensor directly depends on the amount of scale and detergents in the liquid.

Thanks to it, it is possible to change the course of the program: its duration, water consumption, which makes it possible to significantly save electricity.

List of the most common faults in Electrolux dishwashers

Each technique has its own “weak points”. Electrolux units are no exception. Below are the most common breakdowns typical for dishwashers of this brand.

Malfunction	Possible cause	Repair price* (work only)
The dishwasher does not drain water; the display often shows error code i20	The drain pump, which is responsible for draining water from the unit, has probably failed. If the pump is “burnt out,” the dishwasher will not drain water. The pump cannot be repaired and must be replaced.	from 2000 rub.
There could also be a malfunction in the water level sensor (pressure switch). It determines the amount of water inside the dishwasher and sends the received data to the control module. This, in turn, determines how much water is needed for a given washing cycle. If the water level sensor fails while the dishwasher is operating, the control module “does not understand” how much water is in the machine and stops the washing. The pressure switch needs to be replaced.	from 1600 rub.
Dishwasher door won't close	There is probably a problem with the door lock. The lock bracket gets into the tongue - as a result, when you try to close the door, there is no click. If the dishwasher door is not closed, the wash cycle will not begin. Dishwasher door lock needs repair or replacement	from 2200 rub.
The machine does not draw water, error code i10 or i30 is displayed	The water supply valve to the dishwasher has probably failed. In a working unit, when washing begins, the valve opens and water is poured into the dishwasher under the pressure of the water supply. In the event of a malfunction this does not happen. The intake valve needs to be replaced.	from 1900 rub.
The water level sensor (pressure switch) may have failed. It transmits data about the amount of water in the machine to the control module. The module - the “brain” of the dishwasher, in turn, gives the command to draw or drain water. If the pressure switch fails, the water supply will not start. In case of error i30, an overflow could occur due to a faulty water level sensor - water got into the dishwasher tray. Until it is removed from the tray, the washing will not begin, i.e. the unit will not begin to draw water. In such a situation, the problem with water supply will be preceded by a leak. Read also: What does the UE error mean on a Samsung washing machine? The pressure switch needs to be replaced.	from 1600 rub.
The dishwasher does not heat the water, error code i60 is displayed	Probably, the control module, which is the “brain” of the dishwasher and controls all processes during operation of the unit, has failed. Sometimes, when the module fails, it stops exchanging signals with the heating element. As a result, no heating occurs. Re-flashing or replacement of the control module is necessary.	from 2800 rub.

*Parts are not included in the price and must be paid separately.

If you find that your Electrolux dishwasher is not working correctly, or maybe even “refuses” to wash dishes for you, don’t despair! Contact RemBytTech specialists for help. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your equipment and fix the problem at a time convenient for you. And your machine will be “in business” again!

We also repair dishwashers in the cities of the Moscow region:

Mytishchi
Korolev

All manufacturers

Troubleshooting problems with water supply to the PMM

If you have already checked everything that is possible, but water still does not flow into the system, then you need to inspect individual parts. Start by cleaning the filter and hose:

close the shut-off valve;
unscrew the inlet hose;
behind it there is a filter mesh;
rinse the parts under pressure from the tap; you can use a small brush to clean the hose.

At the same time, you can check the remaining details.

Fill valve

If water is not supplied to the Bosch dishwasher, the intake valve is inspected first. Visually check for mechanical damage on the surface of the part. To test the electronics, you need to apply voltage to the element, which will show whether the membrane opens or not.

The electrical part is tested with a multimeter, the resistance is measured and a verdict is made.

Hopper door

Until the chamber door is tightly closed, the machine will not start working. What if the door does not close all the way? Check:

Seal. When it becomes deformed or comes out of its seat, it can interfere with normal closure.
Latch. A broken lock will not make the door “click” and the system will not start.
Placement of baskets and other camera elements. There may be something preventing the door from closing.
Installation of PMM. Check the placement of the machine using a building level.

How to install a new door lock:

open the bunker door;
Unscrew the bolts around the perimeter of the inner part;
remove the outer panel;
disconnect the wiring;
Unscrew the fastening screws and remove the lock;
install the new element and connect the wiring.
reassemble in reverse order.

"Aquastop" system

First of all, check if there is any water in the pan. When a leak occurs, the protection float floats up, presses on the switch, and the water intake is blocked. When “Aquastop” is activated in the dishwasher, fault code E15 may appear on the display.

What to do:

unscrew the hose from the body (if you have a mechanical Aquastop);
look at the valve inside: if it is pressed tightly against the walls of the hose, then the protection needs to be replaced;
To do this, disconnect the old hose and install a new one.

If you have an electromagnetic device, then additionally connect the wire to the sensor.

Level sensor

Incorrect pressure switch readings can also cause a lack of water. We wrote how to replace the level sensor in one of the articles. Most often, the device is a plastic box that is attached to the circulation pump. Checking its mechanics is very simple - blow into the pressure tube. If you hear clicks, the pressure switch is working.

The electrician is checked with a multimeter.

Electronic module

Modern Bosch dishwashers are equipped with a control module. He manages all processes in the machine and gives commands to the nodes. For example, drain the water from the bunker or start drawing water. If one of the board's triacs burns out, then some part stops functioning. Therefore, the module requires flashing or replacement.

You can check the parts in your Bosch dishwasher yourself. Sometimes the reasons for the lack of water lie in a small blockage, so before calling a technician, make sure that the breakdown really exists.