Why does the washing machine wash for a long time, the reasons for the breakdown and how to fix it
Many owners of washing machines are faced with a situation when the device suddenly begins to work more slowly than usual. There are several reasons for this behavior of the machine, and it is not always possible to determine them at first glance. Often, a slowdown in the washing process signals the onset of problems with the intake and discharge of water. Let's look at the common reasons why the washing machine takes a long time to wash and see how to fix them.
Main reasons
As a rule, an increase in the duration of the washing process in an automatic washing machine is associated with an internal malfunction of the mechanism of the device. These can be problems with the intake and drainage of water, as well as a malfunction of the heating element, due to which it takes a long time to warm the water to the temperature required for washing .Each case must be investigated separately in order to properly diagnose the problem and resolve it.
Water intake too long
A common reason an automatic wash takes longer is a problem with the water dispenser.
Therefore, first of all, if a problem arises, check the tap water pressure by first opening the mixer tap.
Thoroughly clean any dirt from the filter in the fill valve and check the fluid supply valve - it should be open. If the fluid supply valve malfunctions, bugs, then it needs to be replaced. Often these actions will solve the problem with the water supply and the washing machine will work properly again.
Draining water too long
If checking the water pressure does not reveal the cause of the problem, check the drain in the next step. Delays in the operation of the washing machine in washing mode can be caused by the fact that the liquid comes out slowly, with difficulty, from the drain mechanism. This behavior is caused by blockages in the drain hose, pipe, or filter. Remove the filter and clean any dirt from it.
The most difficult thing is if the pipe is clogged. In order to remove it, you will need to unplug the machine from the mains and put it to the side, pump. Remove the nipple by loosening the clamp. Then clean it and put it back. If the hose is clogged, it must be replaced with a new one.
Long-lasting heating
If the water in the washing machine heats up longer than the time specified in the instructions, this is usually due to the formation of scale on the surface of the heating element. If this problem is detected, the washing machine must be cleaned with a special descaler.
Citric acid can be used as an available method, as it tends to remove harmful plaque. If cleaning the heating element does not help and the machine continues to heat water for too long, the heating element should be replaced with a new one.
Freezes during the heating phase
If the washing machine stops during the water heating phase and the error indicator appears on the display, this indicates a malfunction of the heating element. In this case, it is necessary to replace it.
Freezes and sags from time to time
If the washing does not start and the tank stops in a stationary position, or during the washing process the rotation of the tank periodically hangs, then the reason for this behavior may be the ingress of a foreign body into the incorrect mechanism or location of the tank inside the machine.
In this case, turn off the machine and try spinning the drum by hand. If it spins with difficulty, you need to adjust it, replace the bearings, or remove a foreign object from the tank, depending on the specific reason.
What can be done
Depending on the established specific cause of the malfunction of the washing machine, you need to take the necessary measures in time to eliminate it. Most problems can be eliminated on their own if you pay attention to them in time and do not start the process. Otherwise, if you do not solve the problem in time, it may lead to a breakdown and then the machine will have to be taken to a service center for qualified repair.
Check the pressure in the pipes
First, if you find your washing machine running slowly, check the pressure in the water lines.It is possible that water slowly enters the device, not because of its breakdown, but because of defects in the water supply system. The faster the water is sucked into the appliance, the faster the washing and rinsing process starts. This is especially true if the pipes haven't changed in your home for a long time.
Checking the machine for blockages
Blockages are one of the most common causes of machine malfunctions. Blockages can be mechanical, when small foreign bodies get inside, or natural, when dirt accumulates inside the device, which, in turn, slows down operation.
To eliminate blockages, you need to disassemble the device and carefully inspect the filtration and drain system, pumps, siphon, then remove the detected contamination, reassemble the machine and check its performance.
Verification of correct installation and connection
Carry out a thorough check of the correct installation and connection of the appliance to the water supply and sewerage system. The problem may be caused by the pipes not being properly connected to the machine itself and the pipes. Because of this, the water is slow-flowing and slow-flowing.
Pressure switch repair or replacement
The sluggish operation of the mechanism and its stoppage are due to malfunctions in the operation of the water level sensor. Due to its breakdown, the device incorrectly detects the amount of liquid collected and does not activate the washing process when water has been collected.
To check the pressure switch, remove it from the unplugged unit. Check it by attaching a pipe ten centimeters long to it. Blow into the other end of the pipe and listen to the sounds from the sensor. Several clicks should occur inside.If the sensor is damaged, it must be repaired or completely replaced if the malfunction cannot be repaired.
Repair or replacement of heating elements
In many cases, the malfunction is associated precisely with the breakdown of the heating element. A sign of its breakdown in washing machines from Bosch, LG, Indesit and other brands is sluggish heating of water or a complete shutdown of heating. This can be caused by scale or natural wear of the heating element, as well as a short circuit due to power surges.
First, if you are having heating problems, you should remove the heating element and check for scale buildup. Scale should be removed with special cleaning products. If after this the heating rate remains slow, the heating element must be repaired or replaced.
How to check the thermostat
To check the correct operation of the thermostat, you need to disconnect the machine from the mains, disassemble it and remove the thermostat itself from the radiator. Use a micrometer to measure the resistance in the sensor. In normal operation, it will be about six thousand ohms for a temperature of twenty degrees Celsius. Check operation in fifty degree hot water. The resistance should drop, and it will be equal to 1350 ohms. If the regulator shows different numbers, it must be completely replaced, as this part cannot be repaired.
Drum overload
The drums of automatic washing machines are designed for a certain weight, exceeding which will disrupt the normal operation of the device. Many modern devices are equipped with a load cell. Pay attention to the amount of laundry loaded in the drum.
Also, overloading can be caused by dirt and foreign bodies getting into the mechanism. Therefore, clean the mechanism in a timely manner.
When is it worth contacting specialists
Many of the above reasons for the malfunction of the mechanism of modern washing machines from Bosch, LG, Indesit and other popular manufacturers can be eliminated independently if you pay attention to the malfunction in time and take the necessary measures. In the event of a breakdown of the mechanism or its parts, you should contact a specialist for a qualified repair.
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Rules of operation
Load the laundry correctly in the drum. Do not exceed the weight for which it is designed. Be careful not to introduce foreign objects inside.
Regularly clean the device from dirt. Check filters and hoses for blockages and heating elements for scale buildup. Whenever possible, use only soft water for washing or soften it with filters and special detergents.