2021 ᐈ

Vertical washing machines from the Swedish manufacturer Electrolux are popular due to their quality and pricing policy. But even with them, breakdowns may occur after some time.

To eliminate this problem, you need to familiarize yourself with common malfunctions of Electrolux top-loading washing machines, methods for solving them, and disassembly instructions.

Tips that will help you find a good master will also be useful.

Design features of Electrolux washing machines

If we talk about the design features of Electrolux washing machines, it should be said that in general they are no different from washing machines from other manufacturers. This brand from Sweden produces not only front-loading machines. Its lineup includes more than a dozen models with vertical loading.

In order to better know the features of a particular model of washing machine that is to be disassembled, cleaned or repaired, you will need to study the diagram. It is located in the instructions for the specific washing machine model.

As a rule, there are no serious differences in terms of design between the models of this manufacturer. Although if you compare models with horizontal and vertical loading, there will be differences. For example, loading laundry into a vertical washing machine is carried out from above, and above, on a special panel, there is a control panel. At the same time, in front-loading models, laundry will be loaded from the front of the machine.

At the same time, there will be no differences in the principle of operation here. The only difference will be in the location of certain elements - drum, heating element, and so on.

Unscrewing the pulley bolt

washing machine pulley bolt The drum needs to be dismantled not only if a foreign object gets in, but also to replace the bearings. Different car models may have different tanks, but the algorithm for disassembling is approximately the same. First you will need to remove the pulley.

The pulley is attached to the drum shaft with a special bolt or nut right in the middle. The pulley twists in a counterclockwise motion, and it is better to place some object, for example, a block of wood, to avoid twisting.

Unscrewing the washing machine pulley bolt

Unscrewing a bolt is a rather difficult task, because it is reinforced with a compound specially poured into the hole that prevents it from unwinding during vibration. What to do if you can’t unscrew the bolt the first time? You can use a gas burner to heat it up. The metal will heat up, move, and require less effort to remove. Before using a gas burner, be sure to read the safety instructions, because working with it requires certain skills.

Diagnostics

Without special equipment, it is simply impossible to check a number of elements of the washing machine. For example, an electrical part or a control unit. If we are talking about mechanical problems with one or another element of the machine, then you still need to disassemble the device, then look for the problem and decide whether it can be fixed with your own hands, whether a specific element can be repaired or whether replacement and other spare parts are needed.

After all, even if we talk about the problems from the list presented above, we can see that the cause of a particular breakdown can be several different cases.

And even a technician cannot always immediately determine the cause of a washing machine malfunction. Therefore, the diagnostic question will be individual in each case and depend on the operating rules of the washing machine.

The water drains, but the spin does not work

One of these malfunctions that it would be better not to encounter. It consists of an open circuit in the power supply between the tachogenerator and the control module. It also happens that the tacho sensor does not work, and to find the reason, it is necessary to completely disassemble the engine.

There are always several reasons for a power supply circuit break:

Short circuit (hence the source must be found).
Mechanical damage from heavy load on the engine.
Water entering the tachogenerator.
The graphite brushes were worn out and the circuit shorted.

An experienced technician always knows where to start diagnosing. Therefore, the repair will take no more than 1 hour.

Note! If the machine does not wring things out, but washes normally, then it’s time to replace the motor brushes. Symptoms may include sparks when the drum rotates

How to repair an Electrolux washing machine with your own hands

Among the many brands of washing machines, Electrolux is in constant demand and popularity. Modern models are distinguished by wide functionality and convenient operation. But, sooner or later, in any technology, various malfunctions and breakdowns arise. You have to contact warranty service centers or try to repair the Electrolux washing machine yourself.

Self-diagnosis capabilities allow you to identify a breakdown and take timely measures to avoid more serious consequences.

Electrolux washing machine does not turn on

This situation occurs quite often. This may primarily be due to a lack of electricity. The circuit breaker trips for various reasons, mostly due to a short circuit. Sometimes a residual current device is triggered when current leaks into the washing machine body. Triggering of an RCD often occurs due to poor-quality electrical wiring. Lack of power is often due to a faulty outlet.

Another reason is often a surge protector. For testing purposes, it is recommended to connect the washing machine directly to an outlet. Sometimes the cord from the machine itself turns out to be faulty, constantly experiencing mechanical stress. A multimeter is used to detect a breakdown. If there is a break, it is recommended to completely replace the wire, since twisting will not ensure reliable and stable operation.
Quite often the power button fails. In some Electrolux models, power is directly supplied to it. When checking, the washing machine must be de-energized. The functionality of the button is checked using a multimeter turned on in buzzer mode. During testing, the button alternates between on and off. In the ON position, the multimeter will beep, which indicates its working condition. When disabled, the button will not be detected.
Sometimes the problem is a faulty noise filter. The filter dampens electromagnetic waves generated by the washing machine. If it breaks down, the electric current stops flowing through the circuit and the washing machine does not turn on. The filter is checked by testing. At its input there are three wires - phase, neutral and ground, at the output - only phase and zero. If there is voltage at the input but not at the output, then the filter is faulty and requires replacement.
The most serious reason for the Electrolux washing machine not turning on is due to a malfunction of the control module. Complete replacement of the device is very expensive; the control module can be repaired yourself. However, this is not always possible to do at home, so in this case it is recommended to use the services of a service center.

When you turn on the washing machine, the RCD is triggered

Most washing machines are installed in the bathroom, therefore, in accordance with the PUE, they must be protected from leakage currents using a separate RCD or differential circuit breaker. However, situations often arise when protective devices begin to constantly operate for no apparent reason. There are several most likely options that cause such an unplanned operation.

First of all, operation can occur as a result of incorrect connection of the differential machine. This happens when trying to ground the device in the absence of a grounding wire. In another case, the phase is passed through the device, and the working zero is simply duplicated or connected directly to the common zero bus. According to the rules, the current of the phase and neutral conductors passes through the internal circuit of the protective equipment. Part of the current passing through the common zero bus is perceived by the RCD as a leak, so the power is immediately turned off.
Another reason is a faulty protective device. Before checking the RCD, all outgoing wires are disconnected. After this, voltage is applied to the switched on RCD or differential circuit breaker and the TEST button is pressed. As a result, the protective equipment should be disabled. If this does not happen, then the RCD is faulty and must be replaced.
If the RCD is working properly, you should carefully inspect the washing machine itself and assess its condition. This applies to old units because they have damaged internal wiring, worn insulation of electric motor windings, deformed housings of internal parts and other damage that can cause current leakage. The test is done using a multimeter by checking the resistance between the machine body and the plug electrodes.
If all previous checks did not reveal any malfunctions, then the cause is most likely faulty wiring. It may be pierced by a nail or self-tapping screw, or placed too tightly in the panel or distribution boxes. Quite often moisture ingress is observed. These faults are especially pronounced when the insulation is damaged or worn. If damage cannot be detected, the entire cable line must be replaced.

The water does not heat up during operation of the Electrolux washing machine.

A characteristic feature of modern Electrolux washing machines is that they do not depend on the presence or absence of hot water in the water supply system. The unit itself heats it to the desired temperature. Therefore, the situation becomes quite unpleasant when the collected water does not heat up and remains cold.

The malfunction can be detected approximately 30 minutes after the start of washing. It is enough to place your palm on the glass of the hatch, and if it is cold, then the water is not heating up.
The main cause of the problem is considered to be incorrect installation of the washing machine, when the height of the pump and sewerage system do not correspond to each other and do not provide normal drainage. In this case, water entering the tank immediately leaves the machine through the drain. The heating itself occurs, but due to the constant supply of cold water, it simply does not have time to warm up.
Wrong washing mode selected. Some of the programs are not designed for strong water heating and the heat will not be felt through the hatch cover.
A breakdown of the water heater - heating element, after which the machine simply stops heating water. This mainly occurs due to the formation of scale, leading to overheating and burnout of the heating element. It often fails due to voltage surges in the electrical network.
Sometimes heating stops as a result of a failure of the temperature sensor. This leads to an automatic stop of water heating to avoid overheating of the heating element.
The biggest problems are caused by a faulty control module that controls all processes, including water heating. In this case, independent actions can only aggravate the situation, so it is recommended to contact a service center.

Water does not fill into the tank

If water does not fill up, do not panic and immediately run to the service center. First of all, you need to try to figure it out yourself and check for the presence of certain reasons.

First of all, you should make sure that the water supply system is working properly. Sometimes there is simply no necessary pressure in the city network. In some cases, owners forget to open the tap that supplies water to the washing machine, which was closed after the previous wash.

If the water supply system is working normally, then the reasons for the lack of water in the tank are related to the washing machine itself. It could be an inlet valve that is clogged due to poor quality water. The valve can burn out due to voltage surges and other electrical network problems. If the heating element is broken, the washing program is not activated and water is not collected. Another reason is a faulty control board. Not everyone can handle complex electronics on their own, so most often the only correct solution is to contact a service center.

Water does not drain from the system

If the water in the Electrolux washing machine does not drain. Here too, there are certain reasons that cause this malfunction.

Most often, it's all about a clogged drain filter, pipes or sewer. Therefore, these elements require careful cleaning. These actions are not repairs and refer to preventive maintenance that can be performed independently.

If there is no blockage, be sure to check the pump or drain pump that is constantly in contact with water. If a malfunction is detected, the device must be replaced. Often the pressure switch, that is, the sensor responsible for the water level, fails. The incorrect signal it supplies leads to incorrect operation of the control module. Another reason could be a faulty board or software glitch, which can be repaired at specialized service centers.

The Electrolux washing machine is very noisy during operation.

The Electrolux washing machine begins to make extraneous sounds in the form of creaking, crackling, noise and others.

This may happen for the following reasons:

Loose drum pulley fastening, accompanied by a jerky whistle and crackling sound. Such fasteners are unscrewed and reinstalled on the sealant. The pulled pulley must be replaced.
A foreign object has gotten between the drum and the washing tub, as evidenced by humming and squeaking noises during operation.
Failed bearings are indicated by vibration and hum, like an airliner. First, under the influence of moisture, the seals that seal the shaft wear out, and then the bearings themselves begin to rust and break. As a rule, bearings and seals are replaced at the same time.
In addition, the springs and shock absorbers may be worn out, causing the entire device to rumble. In this case, the tank shifts and tilts, so during operation it knocks on the inner walls. The same thing happens when the counterweight fails. All faulty elements must be replaced.

Main causes of damage

User panel

In order to determine the performance of the display, as well as the control unit, you need to press several buttons in turn. Sometimes the buttons do not turn on the wash. The reason is the control panel is not working properly.

There are times when some buttons function normally, but others do not react when pressed. To troubleshoot problems, it is necessary to check the power panel; if it is faulty, the user panel is replaced.

Timer check

Sometimes the timer shows problems that actually don't exist. There is no need to change it hastily; first you need to check the parts that fail most often. The list of such problems is specified in the operating instructions.

To determine if the timer is malfunctioning, you will need to check its electrical circuit. Multimeters or testers are used for this purpose. If there is a break, it must be replaced.

Line fuse

In case of voltage surges or overload of the Electrolux drum, a line fuse is provided. When activated, the electrical circuit is interrupted and switching on is impossible. First, the tester checks the integrity of the fuse.

If it burns out, you need to replace it with a working part. In addition, you need to find the reasons for the line fuse tripping, otherwise it will blow again. You should also check the integrity:

wires;
engine;
drain pump.

The drum motor or drain pump may burn out. After replacing the fuse, the car should start.

All buttons are lit

A situation where all buttons are lit or flashing indicates a breakdown. However, it is not necessary to immediately call a specialist. The reason may be the most trivial - the “water supply” option is disabled. First, there is a reason to determine the error code.

Read the instructions carefully, pay attention to the following questions:

no water flowing into the machine;
reasons for control module failures;
the function of blocking access to turning on the machine for children is enabled;
water accumulates in the drum;
drum overload or underload;
The washing machine was installed incorrectly.

The instructions offer tips to eliminate these causes, try using them. If components malfunction, you should contact qualified technicians.

Thermal relay

In case of engine overload, a thermal relay is activated to avoid its failure. If the thermal relay is turned off, starting the Electrolux washing machine is impossible.

It is first necessary to check the engine visually, and then using a tester, as well as the drain pump and the integrity of the electrical circuit. They can be the main source of activation of the thermal relay. When all the problems are fixed and the machine does not turn on, it is necessary to replace the thermal relay.

Control board fault

The control board is also the root cause of the machine not working. True, this happens extremely rarely; more often, if the indicators are on, the problem lies in the inoperability of other parts and assemblies. The check should begin with them. Only if they are all working will you need to replace the control board itself.

Typical malfunctions of SMA Electrolux

To determine a malfunction, it is not always necessary to disassemble the Electrolux washing machine; it is enough to pay attention to the behavior of the CM during operation.

Let's look at the reasons for breakdowns that are inherent in Electrolux Intuition, Electrolux Inspire and other models.

SMA does not turn on

Have you decided to start the wash, but the machine won’t turn on? Don't panic. Let's understand the reasons:

Perhaps there is no voltage in the network, or it is not enough to start the SMA. How can I check this? All you need to do is connect any household appliance to an outlet. If the device works, it means the problem is not in the network. If not, then you can call an electrician or wait for the electricity to come on.
Defective power cord. Carefully inspect the cable and plug for damage. If there are any, you need to replace the cord.
Check the hatch door. Perhaps it did not close until it clicked, so the process does not start.
The contacts of the start button have oxidized. To check, you will have to remove the control panel and do the repairs yourself.
Problems with the main module. A control board failure is a serious matter. Sometimes a professional technician may be required.

Problems with water supply and drainage in an Electrolux car

It happens that the Electrolux washing machine does not fill or drain water. For what reasons does this happen:

Weak water pressure. The inlet valve is not open properly.
The water intake hose is bent. It needs to be inspected and restored to work.
The inlet valve, which is responsible for supplying water to the system, could have failed.
A mesh filter is installed in front of the inlet valve, which protects against the penetration of small particles from the water supply. It needs to be cleaned. This can be done under water pressure.

The washing machine pump has failed. In this case, the water will not drain.
The drain pipe is clogged. Water does not drain due to blockage. The drain system needs to be cleaned.

No powder collection

After pouring the powder into the dispenser tray, the machine releases a stream of water through a special valve. Along with the water, the detergent also goes away. Over time, the CM may stop picking up powder.

What caused the Electrolux washing machine to malfunction?

The most common cause of the problem is a clogged dispenser. To eliminate it, just remove the tray and rinse it under the tap.

If everything is fine with the tray, the inlet valve may be worn. Then it needs replacing.
Washing in the Electrolux machine does not start, the drum does not spin
If you have a problem like this, you can try to fix the problem yourself.

To do this, you need to open the hatch of the Electrolux washing machine and take out half of the laundry. Having thus reduced the load, try to start the SM again. If there is no result, then:

There is probably a problem with the car's engine. The drive belt may be worn or loose, or the electric brushes may be worn out. It happens that the engine burns out due to a short circuit.
Failure of the main board elements can lead to failure of any part of the washing machine. Additionally, you can check the wiring between the module and the motor.

No water heating in Electrolux machine

How can you tell if your SMA is not heating the water? After starting the wash, wait 15-20 minutes. Then place your palm on the sunroof glass. Warm surface - there is heating. And if washing is done in cold water, the reason for this is a malfunction of the heating element.

The thermostat or voltage stabilizer could also be faulty.

Rinse mode does not turn on

A top-loading Electrolusk washing machine did the wash as usual, but does not go into rinse mode? Most likely, the heating element (heating element) has broken. Since the water does not reach the required temperature, the rinse does not start.

The cause of such a breakdown could be the control module. If a system failure occurs, it is enough to reboot the SM within 15-20 minutes. If this happens constantly, you will have to replace the module.

Turning on SM Electrolux leads to knocking out plugs

When you turned on the washing machine, did the automatic transmission break out? This means that there are problems in the electrical network. Never turn on your Electrolux machine again. It's better to call an electrician to find out what the problem is.

What can cause a short circuit:

Breakdown in the heater body.

Oxidation of start button contacts.

Electronic board malfunction.

Moisture gets into the electric motor, causing a short circuit.

Spin doesn't work

For what reason does the Electrolux washing machine not spin out clothes?

The tachogenerator, which controls the number of engine revolutions, has failed.
Motor malfunction.
The pump is broken, which is why the water is not draining.
The electric motor is malfunctioning or its brushes are worn out.
A breakdown of the pressure sensor also leads to a similar malfunction. Since the water level in the tank is not detected, the machine cannot switch to another mode.

Electrolux hatch door does not close

Subsequently, the Electrolux washing machine does not start.
Check the door handle and lock for serviceability.
Check the UBL (electronic lock) device.

Rinsing does not occur and powder remains

About five years after the start of operation, Electrolux washing machines begin to experience the first problems with washing. It often happens that the detergent remains in the tray. It turns out that the clothes are washed without powder. When the Electrolux machine takes in water, it should flow through the cuvette where the powder mass is located.

There is a valve near the compartment where the detergent is located. It opens and washes everything out with water. It is possible that the valve itself is not suitable for operation. Maybe it's clogged with dirt and that's why it won't open. First you need to pull out the compartment where the powder is located. Also remove the top cover of the Electrolux machine and find the valve and check its condition. If it is already completely worn out, you need to purchase a new one.

It happens that the Electrolux washing machine does not rinse or spin, even when a special mode is set. This may be a sign that the control module has failed. It is difficult to carry out such repairs yourself if you do not have any skills in this matter. Then you should seek help from a professional.

Disassembling the case

Whatever the problem, it will almost always be necessary to disassemble the washing machine to get to its insides and find out what the problem is. Let's try to figure out how to do this. The disassembly process begins with the fact that the device must first be disconnected from the outlet. Now unscrew the inlet hose, having first shut off the water supply to the washing machine. Now you need to remove the top cover. It is held on by 2 bolts located on the rear panel. They should be unscrewed.

Now you need to make an effort and pull it towards you. After this, you should unscrew a couple of bolts on the top panel on one side. They are responsible for securing the back wall.

It is important to say here that most Electrolux machine models are made in such a way that they can be disassembled into two halves. There are hidden screws in the side wall that are located in the middle. They are hidden by plugs. And to gain access to them, the plugs must be removed. Unscrew both screws. Now you need to unscrew a couple of screws in place of the back wall. This pair of bolts is not found on all models of Swedish brand washing machines.

You need to release the plastic holder, which is secured with a pair of latches. They must be released using a screwdriver and the holder lifted up. Here you need to point out an important point - some car models have a holder consisting of 2 elements that are secured together with a bolt.

To dismantle the holder, unscrew it and unclip the latches. Now we completely pull out the back wall of the device.

This way we have access to the following elements:

engine;
tank;
water pump;
pump;
belt;
drain hose;
heating element;
shock absorber

Of course, this is the most common instruction for disassembling a washing machine from a Swedish manufacturer. If we talk about disassembling vertical washing machines of the brand, it is carried out like this:

First you need to pry the control panel with a slotted screwdriver, then pull it up and slide it back;
we tilt it a little and photograph exactly how the wires are connected, after which we unscrew the fasteners and dismantle the board;
remove the fill valve, having first removed the hoses from the clamps and disconnected the wires;
screw in the fasteners and remove the panels on the sides;
Now we see fasteners, by unscrewing which we can remove the bottom cover and gain access to the most important components of the washing machine.