DIY washing machine programmer repair

A timer is a device that is designed to count down time. It has a second step and begins its work from the moment the equipment on which it is installed is started. Installed on many devices, including washing machines. In this case, the timer is called a programmer.

Timer for washing machine

general information

The timer, or programmer, is considered one of the most important parts. He has a huge responsibility for choosing the washing program. For example, a timer for an LG or Indesit washing machine allows you to select one of the proposed actions: washing, delay, drying, pre-soaking or spinning the laundry. In appearance, it is a small knob located on the control panel. Installed on both automatic and semi-automatic washing machines.

Timer for Saturn washing machine

There is no timer only on those devices that have a microprocessor and are equipped with a special function called fuzzy logic. You can start or stop the operation of such a washing machine not mechanically, but using the touch control panel.

If the timer breaks, the machine will not work.

Timer device for a semi-automatic washing machine

Advantages and disadvantages of using semi-automatic machines

When choosing a semi-automatic washing machine, you need to consider the pros and cons of this unit. The main advantages include:

• compact dimensions - the washing machine can easily fit in any, even very small, room,
• light weight - a semi-automatic washing machine can be easily moved from one place to another in the house and taken with you in the car (for example, to take it to the country),
• efficiency - unlike its fully automatic counterpart, such a unit consumes less electricity and water,
• vertical loading - even when the washing process is running, items can be added to the tank,
• ease of operation and reliability - there is no need to use special washing agents that soften hard water and prevent the appearance of scale, while an automatic washing machine will quickly break down without them,
• you can wash and dry clothes at the same time - this is true for two-tank models,
• no sewerage or centralized water supply is required - before starting the wash, you need to fill the tank with water, and at the end - drain it to a suitable place,
• You can use any powder, even those intended for hand washing,
• You can wash white clothes first, and then, without changing the water, dark clothes,
• semi-automatic machines do not have a heater and electronics, so such units break down much less often, and repairs will be cheaper than with automatic machines,
• The affordable price of a semi-automatic washing machine allows anyone to purchase it.

The main disadvantages of semi-automatic models include:

• lower power than automatic machines, so it is not always possible to completely remove dirt from things,
• powerful semi-automatic models are similar in price to the cost of automatic washing machines,
• the harder the water, the worse things are washed and to avoid this, it is recommended to install special filters, which will significantly affect the cost of the unit,
• limited actions - semi-automatic washing machines do not have as many programs as an automatic machine,
• in devices without a drying function, you can only wash, and you will have to wring things out manually,
• washing in a semi-automatic machine must be constantly monitored, since it is necessary to regularly change the water, rinse and wring out things,
• when the hot water is turned off, washing poses additional difficulties,
• Since semi-automatic washing machines have vertical loading, nothing can be stored on top of them, which is not very convenient in a small room.

Having compared all the pros and cons, it is easy to understand that a semi-automatic machine is an indispensable thing if it is not possible to install an automatic washing machine.

Part device

Regardless of where the timer is installed (automatic washing machine or semi-automatic), as well as its model (LG, Indesit, etc.), it has the same design. It includes the following parts:

• synchromotor;
• gearbox;
• several contacts;
• gears;
• special protrusions and recesses that ensure the operation of the first element.

Machine control panel

There are two types of washing machine wash timer:

1. Hybrid. It has very few functions, but is reliable and has a long service life.
2. Electronic. It is a multifunctional device. Allows you to set several programs at once, for example, delay washing or rinsing. The disadvantages of this type of timer include the need for frequent repairs. Even trivial power surges in the network or unexpected malfunctions in the operation of the washing machine itself lead to breakdowns.

Most washing machines, for example, Indesit, Samsung, LG, released in recent years, have a second type of wash and delay timer.

Semi-automatic functions

Before using a semi-automatic washing machine, you need to find out about the additional functions that these units are equipped with:

1. Spin

Most semi-automatic washing machines are equipped with a spin function. In two-tank models, it is carried out in a centrifuge installed in one of them. If the unit is single-tank, then drying is either absent or performed in the same container.

1. Rinsing

To rinse clothes in a semi-automatic machine, you need to repeatedly pour water into the tank. To do this, take things out of the main tank after washing, drain the dirty water, fill the machine with clean water, put clean clothes back in there and start the rinse mode.

1. Drain

In most semi-automatic washing units, water is drained manually; for this purpose, a drain hole is provided at the bottom of the tank, onto which a hose can be attached if necessary. If there is a drain pump in a semi-automatic device, the cost of the unit will increase significantly.

These are the main functions of a semi-automatic washing machine, allowing you to make the washing process more convenient. And if you can rinse clothes not only in the machine, but in a basin or bathtub, then the presence of a spin cycle significantly facilitates the most difficult part of the process, especially when you need to squeeze out large items.

Possible problems

It happens that the wash/delay timer unexpectedly fails. There are many reasons for this:

1. Sudden power surges. Causes damage to the device software. As a result, errors may appear during operation. Reinstalling the software will help correct the situation.
2. Careless handling of the washing machine. Mechanical damage can cause the device to stop during the washing process or stop performing some of its functions.
3. There is moisture on the timer gears. This usually leads to the formation of rust and, as a result, malfunctions. If possible, it is better to clean them first, since the replacement procedure is usually expensive.
4. If the timer does not work in the washing machine, it may be due to a malfunction of the heating element or heating element. Its failure provokes failure of both other parts and the control unit. Additionally, if the heating element gets too hot, the plastic parts of the timer may melt. That is why special attention should be paid to the uninterrupted operation of the heater.

As mentioned above, not a single washing machine, be it Indesit, LG., Siemens or Samsung, automatic or semi-automatic, works without a timer. Therefore, if it breaks down, you should immediately replace or repair it.

You can determine that the timer is broken by several signs:

1. An automatic or semi-automatic washing machine does not work even if there are no problems with the electrical network.
2. The washing constantly stops or does not start at all, regardless of how the programmer knob is installed.
3. The time shown on the display does not suit any mode.
4. All indicators on the control panel flash simultaneously.

Washing machine time relay.

The time relay in the Fairy washing machine (type SM-1.5) controls the start and stop of the electric drive. Control is carried out using a time relay. Typically, in simple washing machines, the time relay handle is located on the front (top) control panel.

The time timer provides independent automatic control of the cyclic reversal of the drum movement. The programmed alternation of phases of the reversing cycle is carried out in the following sequence of working periods: rotation of the electric motor shaft in one direction; pause in work; rotation of the drum motor in the opposite direction; pause in work. Accordingly, the rotation cycle is further repeated in the same sequence. The usual washing duration, set from the remote control, is adjustable from 1 to 6 minutes and is regulated by time relay settings.

When using a time relay, the electrical circuit includes: electric motor M type AVE071-4C; a block of capacitors C1, connected in a triangle configuration and consisting of a K75-37 type capacitor with a capacity of 0.68 μF and two capacitors with a capacity of 0.0047 μF; time relay KT type RVTs-6-50; capacitor C2, included in the starting winding of the electric motor, type KBG-MN-2-600V and with a capacity of 6 μF; resistor R type MLT-2 with a nominal value of 100 kOhm and connecting cord XP PVSA0 2x0.75 mm.

Modern relays of the RVTs-6-50 type belonged to mechanical time devices with a contact output. The timer device is equipped with a clock balance mechanism, with a spring motor and an adjustable time delay. RVTs-6-50 is used for cyclic automatic reversal of motors and disconnecting the washing machine and other single-phase appliances from the electrical network after a specified time interval.

In order to set the time delay, the relay needs to turn the winding shaft clockwise using the pointer knob. This should be done quite decisively, since this immediately turns on the electric motor. There is only a slight pause at the beginning of work, during which preparatory operations take place to reverse the motor.

Technical characteristics of the RVTs-6-50 relay:

1) The rotation angle of the winding shaft is 45 degrees, corresponding to a time delay of 1 minute; 2) Rated voltage - 220V, current switched by contacts - up to 6A; 3) Exposure before pause reversal 10±5 sec; 4) Duration of reversal (working period) 50±5 seconds; 5) Accuracy, shutdown range ±40 sec; 6) Range with time delay from 1 to 6 minutes.

The time relay in the Azovye washing machine (type SM-1.5) uses KT type RVR-6 (RV-6A). To avoid engine overheating, it is used in conjunction with a thermal relay RT type RT-10-1,4-UCH. The list of circuits includes a group of capacitors connected in parallel - C1, C2, C3 (type KBG-MN-600V capacitance 4 µF). The washing machine is connected to the network using an XF cord of the ShBVL-VP2x0.25 brand. The activator drive is started and stopped using a time relay. For ease of control, the relay handle is located on the top (front) control panel. The washing time of the time relay ranges from 0 to 6 minutes. The power drive of the washing machine is equipped with an M electric motor type KD-180-4/56 and a time relay.

A little about the composition and characteristics of the relays used.

In order to obtain intermittent-reversible translational movement of the activator, an electrical circuit is installed in the washing machine - a reversing time relay RVR-6. A cam 5 is installed on the shaft of the temporary relay, which switches the windings of the electric motor in the required sequence. Alternating current flow into the activator drive windings leads to the creation of reverse movement of the electric motor. The relay also functions as a master device. At the same time working as a wash duration limiter, just like a conventional time relay RV-6. This operating principle, which allows it to be combined with a master device, is very successful. Consisting of a cam and two contact groups, a relay device with this composition allows for cheap, reliable and efficient control of rotation cycles. The cams of the main driving device alternately open contacts 6 and 7 of the circuit of the working winding of the activator drive motor. The winding is de-energized, followed by switching of contacts 1, 2 and 3 of the starting winding circuit. This allows you to change the direction of the current in the windings, and, accordingly, the direction of rotation of the electric motor shaft. Connection to the network is carried out by closing the power contacts of the switching device of the time relay used. Alternate closure of the contacts occurs when the pointer knob is turned. This pointer handle is attached to the shaft and rotates clockwise to the required angle, synchronizing the washing time according to the plate.

Reference table for equipment of domestic agricultural machinery

Washing machine brand

Problem solving

If the mechanical or electronic delay timer in an LG washing machine or other models fails, you can repair or replace it yourself. In the second case, it will be more difficult to act:

1. First you need to buy a branded part.
2. Download software suitable for the new timer and machine model.
3. Install programs on your computer and check the functionality of the equipment.
4. Connect the control unit to the PC.
5. Perform firmware.

The operation of a proprietary device is tested at the factory, so it is easier to install and, if necessary, correct.

So, how functional the washing machine will be depends on the timer. Using its handle, you can control the washing process and select programs. If this element malfunctions, the machine cannot operate.

A timer is a device that is designed to count down time. It has a second step and begins its work from the moment the equipment on which it is installed is started. Installed on many devices, including washing machines. In this case, the timer is called a programmer.

Timer for washing machine

general information

The timer, or programmer, is considered one of the most important parts. He has a huge responsibility for choosing the washing program. For example, a timer for an LG or Indesit washing machine allows you to select one of the proposed actions: washing, delay, drying, pre-soaking or spinning the laundry. In appearance, it is a small knob located on the control panel. Installed on both automatic and semi-automatic washing machines.

Timer for Saturn washing machine

There is no timer only on those devices that have a microprocessor and are equipped with a special function called fuzzy logic. You can start or stop the operation of such a washing machine not mechanically, but using the touch control panel.

If the timer breaks, the machine will not work.

Timer device for a semi-automatic washing machine

Part device

Regardless of where the timer is installed (automatic washing machine or semi-automatic), as well as its model (LG, Indesit, etc.), it has the same design. It includes the following parts:

• synchromotor;
• gearbox;
• several contacts;
• gears;
• special protrusions and recesses that ensure the operation of the first element.

Machine control panel

There are two types of washing machine wash timer:

1. Hybrid. It has very few functions, but is reliable and has a long service life.
2. Electronic. It is a multifunctional device. Allows you to set several programs at once, for example, delay washing or rinsing. The disadvantages of this type of timer include the need for frequent repairs. Even trivial power surges in the network or unexpected malfunctions in the operation of the washing machine itself lead to breakdowns.

Most washing machines, for example, Indesit, Samsung, LG, released in recent years, have a second type of wash and delay timer.

How to use a semi-automatic machine

The washing process in a semi-automatic machine is quite simple. To do this you need to do the following:

• sort the laundry into several groups - white, colored, cotton, wool, delicate, heavily soiled, etc.,
• if necessary, some items can be pre-washed or soaked (this can be done the day before),
• pour into the machine as much hot water as is required to completely fill its container, including laundry,
• If there is no hot water, then it must first be heated,
• pour in the amount of washing powder recommended based on the weight of the laundry and degree of soiling,
• load things into the tank and connect the device to the power supply,
• set the washing time using a mechanical timer,
• at the end of the process, you need to take out the laundry, drain the water and fill it with clean water, and then rinse the clothes in the machine (if there is such a function), basin or bathtub,
• after rinsing the laundry, you need to spin it out - in a two-tank machine with a centrifuge, things are immediately transferred there and the spin cycle starts,
• if there is one tank, first all the laundry is rinsed (if there was a lot of washing and the process was started more than once), and then spun in a centrifuge,
• At the end of the spin cycle, the laundry should be hung out to dry.

To facilitate and speed up the process of washing a large number of items in a model with two tanks, you first need to put in white or lightly soiled laundry, and then, if the water is still fairly clean, you can wash a new portion. Rinsing the laundry can be done in a basin, bath or centrifuge while a new wash is in progress, and then spin.

The washing process ends by disconnecting the unit from the power supply. After this, the water is drained from the semi-automatic washing machine, the tanks are rinsed and wiped dry.

Possible problems

It happens that the wash/delay timer unexpectedly fails. There are many reasons for this:

1. Sudden power surges. Causes damage to the device software. As a result, errors may appear during operation. Reinstalling the software will help correct the situation.
2. Careless handling of the washing machine. Mechanical damage can cause the device to stop during the washing process or stop performing some of its functions.
3. There is moisture on the timer gears. This usually leads to the formation of rust and, as a result, malfunctions. If possible, it is better to clean them first, since the replacement procedure is usually expensive.
4. If the timer does not work in the washing machine, it may be due to a malfunction of the heating element or heating element. Its failure provokes failure of both other parts and the control unit. Additionally, if the heating element gets too hot, the plastic parts of the timer may melt. That is why special attention should be paid to the uninterrupted operation of the heater.

Signs of failure and its causes

Programmer failure can be determined by several signs:

• the machine stops turning on and everything is fine with the electrical network, then the cause of the malfunction may be caused by one of the elements of the control unit and the command device as well;
  

  Before disassembling the machine, be sure to check the power cord and socket for breakdowns.

• during washing, the program is lost, the time does not correspond to the selected mode;
• In some models of washing machines, an external sign may be the blinking of all indicators on the control panel.

Despite the fact that the command device is a fairly reliable part of the washing machine, it can break down after 10 years. The main reason noted by experts is careless handling of the unit by users. So, for example, if a child approached the machine while washing and began to turn the handle, then this may be enough to cause the programmer to fail.

Another cause of breakdowns is power surges in the electrical network. In addition, moisture getting inside the programmer may also cause malfunction. Well, we don’t rule out defects in the production of parts.

We disassemble the programmer

We begin repairing the programmer with its proper disassembly. The problem is that there are quite a few types of programmers, and there is nothing to say about the models; each model has its own disassembly features. Let's talk about the features of disassembling the programmer using the example of a device from an Ariston automatic washing machine. The procedure is as follows:

• We take the programmer removed from the machine and carefully inspect it. We find the latches on the side that hold the plastic cover, pry them off with a screwdriver and remove the cover.

  

Important! When removing the cover, be extremely careful; under it there are several small springs that tend to fly apart when disassembling the programmer; do not lose them.

• After we remove the cover, underneath we will see an upside down board. Carefully remove it and set it aside.
• We take out the central gear and inspect the small gears. Often they become clogged with debris, which interferes with the normal operation of the mechanism.
• Now let's carefully examine the board. You can often see burnt elements or paths on it. They will have to be soldered again.

  

• If there are no burnt tracks, then we take a multimeter and measure the resistance at the contacts of the control board, something will be found.
• We continue to disassemble the programmer. Now our task is to remove all the gears one by one, and then the core of the programmer motor.
• Next, you need to visually check the integrity of all elements, wipe the contacts with alcohol and reassemble the device in the reverse order. The repair of this control has been completed.

Note! When disassembling the programmer engine, do not forget to inspect the winding, because it can also burn out, which will disrupt the operation of the control device. If you find burnt wire, you will have to remove it and wind a new one in its place.

Experts categorically advise against attempting to repair programmers for German washing machines such as Miele or Siemens with your own hands. Their devices have a complex structure, represented by several plates compressed in pairs. When you start to disassemble such programmers, the plates fly apart in different directions and it is extremely difficult to reassemble them later, since when the plates fly apart they damage the fragile plastic grooves. For our part, we advise you to entrust the repair of programmers from German washing machines to specialists.

It should be noted that German programmers are not the most difficult thing. washing machines have programmers with a soldered control board. To repair them, you need to master a soldering iron, and not an ordinary one, but a special one with a thin tip. Even most craftsmen do not undertake to repair such programmers, so we, for our part, will advise you not to waste your energy, but simply replace the broken programmer from the Gorenie washing machine with a new one.

In conclusion, we note that repairing the command apparatus of an automatic machine with your own hands is not always a rewarding task. There are devices with the simplest design, in which it’s not a sin to tinker, you may not be able to do it, but it won’t be any worse. But some command apparatus is so complex that repairing it is simply not practical, or it can only be done by a good master.

Interesting:

• Fuzzy logic function in a washing machine
• Comparison of technical characteristics of washing machines
• How to use a tumble dryer?
• Washing machine with ironing function
• Which washing machine to buy - tips from the pros
• How much does a washing machine cost?

readers

1. 06/08/2016 at 23:03

   Vladimir:

   I found out what interested me. THANK YOU.

   Answer

2. 10/23/2016 at 20:39

   Irina:

   My program does not turn off, it works and works. What to do?

   Answer

3. 01/23/2017 at 22:27

   Artem:

   Thanks for the warnings.

   Answer

4. 02/06/2017 at 16:15

   Andrey:

   Hello! The washing machine does not heat the water. The heating element and sensor are working. What else could it be?

   Answer

   02/23/2017 at 08:03

   Alexander:

   Pressostat, control module (heater relay).

   Answer

5. 03/16/2017 at 21:02

   Alexander:

   Hello! The Kandy machine, in the short washing mode, does everything as expected, but in other modes it may not turn on the heating element or some other fault will pop up. It draws in water, drains as expected, and the spin cycle works again. I'm blaming the programmer.

   Answer

   04/24/2017 at 09:13

   marina:

   The Indesit machine does not switch from rinse to spin, it spins all the time until you turn it off.

   Answer

6. 04/11/2017 at 16:19

   Svetlana:

   The programmer knob scrolls freely, as if it had come off. What to do?

   Answer

7. 07/17/2017 at 08:51

   Vitaly:

   Read also:  UBL washing machine: principle of operation, types, repair

   I have an Ariston AVD 109 washing machine, the programmator button has fallen out. Tell me how to put it back?

   Answer

8. 08/04/2017 at 19:09

   Mark:

   Could anyone send me photos of the connection of the wires of the Bosch wfb 2005 washing machine?

   Answer

9. 08/28/2017 at 23:49

   Glory:

   Could anyone send photos of the connection of the wires of the control unit of the Bosch WFB1070 BY/07FD 7510 washing machine? Thank you.

   Answer

10. 10/28/2017 at 15:07

    Valery:

    Hello, the Indesit 4085 washing machine does not switch to rinse mode after washing, it starts drawing water endlessly until you switch it manually. What to do, who knows?

    Answer

11. 01/17/2018 at 02:38

    Sergey:

    Can you make a programmer on an Ardo a1000x machine yourself? The child turned it back. Now when you turn it on the indicator lights up and nothing else works. Even the doors don't lock.

    Answer

12. 06/05/2018 at 13:43

    Olga:

    I have an Ariston machine. Turns on and draws water. After two revolutions, the indicators turn on, drain, super wash and knock down the water. I'm blaming the programmer.

    Answer

13. 07/03/2018 at 16:10

    Natalia:

    Hello, my Indesit machine washed, rinsed and drained the water. For the second rinse, turn the water on and off. And so three times. Then error H 20 appears. I checked everything, water is flowing. I was able to switch the mode only when I unplugged the plug. Now I put it on spin, the drum does not turn. As a result, only the drain works and that’s it. What with her?

    Answer

Problem solving

If the mechanical or electronic delay timer in an LG washing machine or other models fails, you can repair or replace it yourself. In the second case, it will be more difficult to act:

1. First you need to buy a branded part.
2. Download software suitable for the new timer and machine model.
3. Install programs on your computer and check the functionality of the equipment.
4. Connect the control unit to the PC.
5. Perform firmware.

The operation of a proprietary device is tested at the factory, so it is easier to install and, if necessary, correct.

So, how functional the washing machine will be depends on the timer. Using its handle, you can control the washing process and select programs. If this element malfunctions, the machine cannot operate.

Problems with erratic washing programs most often arise in various models of Indesit, Beko, Kandy washing machines and in overly complex machines from other manufacturers with a large number of functions. Favorite programs that you are already accustomed to and often use are either simply not displayed, or are displayed, but get lost. The machine switches them or simply does not complete them. What is the cause of such breakdowns and what to do in order to eliminate them, we will consider in this article.

Preliminary actions

What to do if your favorite washing program on your washing machine has gone wrong? First of all, you should not panic, run and call the technician, or even worse, rush to disassemble the washing machine. There are many custom methods for eliminating such problems; it’s not certain that they will work, but it’s worth a try. Let's list them.

• Restarting the washing machine from the on/off button, as well as by disconnecting the power cord.
• Starting the washing machine in test mode.
• Starting self-diagnosis of the washing machine.

When installing and starting a specific washing mode, a failure may occur. If the machine does not perform a program, the first thing to do is press the power off button of the washing machine, then wait 10 seconds, and then turn it on again and set the desired washing program. If this does not help and the problem continues, unplug the washing machine again, this time not only from the button, but also from the outlet. Wait 5 minutes and then start the appliance again.

Some modern models of Indesit washing machines (and others) have built-in test modes or self-diagnosis modes. The manufacturer specifically provided them for finding and correcting such failures. This mode can actually solve the problem only in 10% of cases. Its main task is to find the cause of the malfunction and thereby save a lot of your effort and energy.

Problems with the control unit and wiring

If the above actions do not lead to a positive effect and the program failure recurs, you should check the control unit and electrical wiring. First of all, you should disassemble the washing machine by removing its front wall. Having reached the control unit, you need to check all the contacts and wiring one by one using a multimeter, starting with the on/off button.

Important! The control unit is a rather complex element of the washing machine, containing multilayer electronic boards. It is very difficult to test and reflash it yourself; it is better to contact a specialist.

If the test of the control unit does not bring positive results, you will have to go further and check the wiring going to all units and sensors of the washing machine, paying special attention to the pressure switch (water level sensor), drain and fill valves. When checking, pay attention to any oddities:

• burnt contacts;
• frayed or heavily twisted wires;
• poorly secured and loose terminals;
• unscrewed sensor fasteners;
• traces of mechanical damage to sensors;
• melting of the housing of board parts, etc.

Any suspicious parts or wires need to be more carefully checked and replaced. If these actions do not have an effect, most likely the problem is in one of the units of the washing machine. And this threatens very expensive repairs.