Any modern Indesit brand equipment breaks down over time, so owners of washing machines (hereinafter also referred to as ASM, SM) periodically have to deal with breakdowns of their units. At the same time, many malfunctions of the Indesit washing machine can be localized and eliminated independently.
Even the most modern Indesit washing machines can fail over time
How to determine the nature of the malfunction
Almost all washing units with horizontal and vertical loading are equipped with a self-diagnosis function. And if the AFM is equipped with a display, this is especially convenient for users and technicians who repair this equipment. Fault codes are displayed on the dashboard; you just need to know their meaning. This saves time and money spent on repairs.
Many Indesit washing machine models - such as IWSB 5085, WISL 82, WISL 83, WISL 85, WISL 103, WISL 105, WITL 86 and WITL 106 - do not have a display. The nature of the breakdown in such units can be determined by a combination of glowing indicators, and the methods for deciphering them differ depending on the type of control panel. The previously listed models, as well as machines of the WIL, WIUL, WIDL series, belong to the AVL line of the EVO-II generation.
Numerical values of each indicator of the AVL SM line
The same generation includes the Low-End line (for example, models WUIN 81 and WISE 10), in which indicators and control buttons are located differently.
Meanings of SM indicators of the Low-End line of the EVO-II series
Washing machines made on the Arcadia platform (for example, models IWSB 5085, IWSB 5105) have their own fault indication.
Numerical values of each of the AFM indicators of the Arcadia line
All photographs contain values for indicators 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16. Depending on which of them are blinking, error codes are generated. For example, in the Indesit WISL 102 washing machine, a malfunction corresponding to code F03 will be indicated by two flashing indicators on the right. If you add their values (1 + 2), you get a total of 3.
In AFMs manufactured on the EVO-I platform (for example, models W84TX and W105TX), the error code can be determined by counting the number of blinks of the network indicator. At the same time, the program selection knob rotates, indicating a breakdown.
There is a pause between the blinking cycles of the indicator, so it’s easy to calculate the error code
Next, we will consider the main malfunctions of Indesit washing machines.
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We continue the series of articles on repairing washing machines with our own hands.
All Indesit witl 106, witl 86, witl 1067, witl 867 models are similar to each other and the repair problems are the same.
Washing machines can be assembled on an ARCADIA or EVO-II electronic board
This depends on your CMA product number.
- Deciphering the error code by flashing indicators:
By adding the numbers corresponding to the blinking LEDs, you will receive an error code.
As an example of error F10, we add the sum 8+2=10 (F10).
- Faults by error code (EVO-II board):
We have already published in a previous article how to troubleshoot a fault on the EVO-II board of WISL models by error code. They are similar to each other.
- Faults by error code (ARCADIA board):
This board is the newest of all, it replaced the EVO-II. Installed since 2007.
Schematic connection of the Arcadia control board with end devices
1. Anti-interference filter (power capacitor) 2. Heating element 3. Pump (pump) 4. Door locking device 5. Tachogenerator 6. Motor stator 7. Electric motor rotor 8. Main wash water intake solenoid valve 9. Pre-wash solenoid valve 10. NTC (temperature) sensor 13. Water level switch (pressostat) 14. Linear water level switch
- When the machine does not display an error code:
— When plugged in, the door immediately locks (a click is heard) and the hatch lock indicator light comes on.
Suspicion of a breakdown of the motor triac, burnout of the resistance, or short circuit of the motor.
It is necessary to remove the top cover by unscrewing the screws:
Visually inspect the board by unscrewing the fasteners:
Next, we use a tester to call the engine block (6 wires, 2 of which are red - tacho, and 4 black are divided in pairs: rotor and stator):
— Frequent malfunctions are associated with the engine. It is a collector type.
For example, after pressing the start button, the hatch lock is activated and “silence” occurs. In many cases, brush wear can be determined by external inspection or by the intensity of sparking on the engine commutator: both under load (there is laundry in the machine tank) and without it - in this case, abundant sparks occur (not along the entire perimeter of the commutator).
If the brushes wear out significantly, there is a loss of engine power - for example, if the drum of the washing machine does not “turn” with the laundry loaded into it.
Engine control circuit via tachogenerator (ARCADIA module):
— It takes an infinitely long time to wash, constantly filling and draining water.
It is necessary to properly organize the drainage system. The tip of the hose should be at a height of 60 to 100 cm.
In addition, a break in the stream must be ensured when draining to avoid water being sucked back into the SM.
-All indicators flash, except for the pre-rinse, main and rinse.
The hero of the occasion is the control unit (module), namely the switching power supply in it. An incorrect signal (voltage) is sent to the board and the lights blink.
Where is this module located:
With front loading, it is located under the tank on the rear side. In the vertical racks under the top control cover.
What to look for in the power supply is the swollen capacitors C17, C16, C20.
We select new capacitors, maybe 1000 uF. We take a soldering iron and change them.
- Exploded top view:
001 - control knob 002 - white on/off/reset buttons 003 - white control panel 004 - bitron switch 005 - function keys 007 - display 008 - lid handle 010 - dispenser release lever 011 - dispenser hook spring 012 - dispenser release button 016 - cover support 018 - partition with shock absorber 021 - door locking device 022 - white dispenser 023 - siphon cover 026 - control panel wiring 027 - 8-pos. potentiometer
What can break in your washing machine:
Engine breakdowns
Signs of problems with the motor are as follows: the machine does not start washing, the drum does not rotate. The breakdown should be looked for in the following details:
- electric motor;
- triac (hereinafter also referred to as triac), which controls the operation of the motor;
- circuits of the electronic control unit (hereinafter also referred to as ECU);
- contacts in cables and connectors.
Motors are usually located at the bottom of the body
There may be a short circuit in the control triac, as well as water getting into the connector of the cable going to the electric motor. Probably, the voltage in the network does not correspond to the required level - its presence and value is checked with a multimeter. The possibility of ECU failure cannot be ruled out.
When the tachogenerator does not transmit information about the rotation of the electric motor to the control module, this is manifested by the lack of rotation of the drum. In this case, you can suspect not only a breakdown in the motor, but also a malfunction of the tachometer itself. There is a possibility of an open circuit or short circuit at the tachogenerator output.
Tachometer reading engine speed
It is easy to check the serviceability of the rotation sensor - just measure the resistance at its output with a multimeter. The value should be in the range of 110-180 Ohms. In the same way, you can check the circuit for a short circuit. Another possible cause of failure is failure of the ECU. If error codes F01 and F02 appear, repairs should be entrusted to a qualified technician.
The ACM can be brought into working condition by rebooting the computer - to do this, you need to disconnect it from the network for 15–20 minutes. Higher problems are eliminated by replacing the motor, triac or tachogenerator. The brushes in the motor may fail, so it will be enough to replace them.
A breakdown of the Indesit washing machine may result in a lack of communication between the central processor and the motor control controller. The problem is “cured” by replacing the control unit board.
Troubleshooting common problems
Most problems with the Indesit washing machine can be resolved yourself. If the electronics fail, first turn off the power to the machine for 10-15 minutes by unplugging the power plug from the outlet. Then start the wash program again. To eliminate more complex damage, you will need a minimum set of tools: pliers, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and a multimeter.
Replacing the surge protector
Typically, the surge protector is located under the top cover of the CM, and a power cord is connected to it. This unit cannot be repaired and must be replaced immediately. Such malfunctions of Indesit washing machines can be easily eliminated, but no one can guarantee that the newly purchased filter will last a long time.
Surge filter for protection against interference in a 220 V network
If the washing machine is located in the bathroom, high humidity has a detrimental effect on the filter contacts. To waterproof the contacts, use silicone sealant. It must be applied to clean, dry contact pads. After this, the filter unit will serve for a long time.
Troubleshooting heating elements
Damage to the heater is indicated by codes F07 or F08, indicated by the display or SM indicators. To check and replace the heating element, you need to open the back cover of the machine.
The heating element is located at the bottom of the tank; two supply wires with terminals and a grounding wire are connected to it
Disconnect the wire terminals from the heater and check it with a multimeter. A working part has a resistance in the range of 25–40 ohms. Other values indicate that the heating element needs to be replaced. After unscrewing the central mounting nut, carefully remove the heater by rocking it from side to side. Then apply a soap solution to the rubber gasket of the new heating element and install it in the groove.
Installing new bearings
Noise, clanging and other extraneous sounds during the spin cycle indicate that the tank bearings require replacement. This kind of malfunction of Indesit washing machines is carried out by qualified specialists, as it requires complete disassembly of the unit.
Replacing bearings in the tank cross
To knock out old bearings and press in new ones, you will need specific tools and skills. Along with the bearings, the oil seal must be replaced.
The video demonstrates how to replace bearings in an Indesit CM with a metal tank:
Troubleshooting control unit problems
ECUs produced by the Italian manufacturer are not designed for high humidity, which is typical for bathrooms. The contact pads of printed circuit board connectors are the first to suffer from exposure to moisture.
ECU board with connectors in which contact protrusions are clearly visible
Restoring the operation of the ECU requires knowledge in the field of electronics, so such malfunctions of Indesit washing machines should be repaired by experienced technicians.
In conclusion, I would like to note that the material does not discuss breakdowns associated with draining water from the SM - such problems are the same for units of all brands. The main reasons are clogged drain filters and damaged pumps. To clean the filter or replace the pump, no special skills are required; this work can be done on your own.
Problems with the temperature sensor
Incorrect information about the water temperature entering the control unit is a consequence of a break or short circuit in the temperature sensor circuit (hereinafter also referred to as NTC). Another reason for such a problem in the Indesit washing machine may be a stuck relay that controls the operation of the heating element (hereinafter also referred to as the heating element). In this case, the liquid does not heat up and its temperature remains unchanged.
Water temperature sensor for Indesit washing machines
One option for checking a sensor is to measure its resistance. When the device is operational, the multimeter should show a value of approximately 20 kOhm. You should also check the integrity of the wiring and the functionality of the connectors from the control module to the sensor. In addition to replacing the sensor, an option to troubleshoot an Indesit washing machine is to update the firmware flashed in the non-volatile memory of the CM.
Feedback from users
Natalia Tikhonina
Model: Indesit BTW A61052
Pros: Neat appearance. Quiet. Clear controls. Consumes little electricity.
Cons: it's a pity that there is no display.
Comment: The machine washes quickly, clothes are always clean and do not spoil. There is no display, but everything is clear from the indicators that light up depending on the washing machine’s mode. Quite large items can be placed in the drum. It’s convenient that loading is done vertically, since we have children. The only pity is that there is no display, it would be much more convenient and clearer.
Igor Presnev
Model: Indesit BWSA 61051
Pros: Affordable price, washes well, many programs, convenient sizes.
Cons: water collects in the elastic band, powder remains in the container, and you cannot see how much time is left until the end of the wash.
Review: Excellent value for money. I recommend.
Incorrect information from the water level sensor
This device has another name - pressure switch. It measures the pressure level in the tank when water enters it or when it is absent. When a certain liquid level is reached, the pressure switch is activated and closes the inlet solenoid valve. If there is a malfunction, the sensor may simultaneously send signals that the tank is full and at the same time empty.
The pressure sensor is usually located at the top of the housing, under the cover
The cause of the problem is the sticking of one of the contact groups that informs about an empty or full tank. The problem may also be hidden in the control unit and wiring contacts. If these components are working properly, you will have to replace the water level sensor.
Where to begin?
Working with Indesit equipment is not difficult. The unit is not overloaded with electronics; it does not have large touch panels, color displays or remote control. This makes the machine reliable and easy to use.
Are you unplugging your washing machine?
Oh yes! No
To start washing, you must perform the following steps:
- carefully open the hatch and load dirty things into it in a volume not exceeding the recommended amount;
- place a carefully measured amount of detergent into the tray;
- insert the plug into the socket;
- turn on the power using the general button - “ON/OFF”;
- set the program selector to the desired position;
- use the toggle switch to set the temperature and speed;
- if necessary, adjust the program in accordance with your preferences;
- press the start button.
Washing machine panel "Indesit"
Liquid is not drained from the tank
If the water does not drain, the reasons for the malfunction of the Indesit washing machine lie in a non-working pump or in the absence of a control signal. If the pump breaks, it will have to be replaced. Perhaps the absence of a control signal is due to a malfunction of the pressure sensor (a constant signal that the tank is empty) or a malfunction in the control unit. You need to check for blockages in the drainage system components - hose and filter. This is probably why the pump cannot remove water.
The pump winding may be broken or there may be no power supplied to it. This means that you need to check the connection circuit between the pump and the ECU with a multimeter, as well as the integrity of the pump winding. In working condition, its resistance should be in the range of 160–180 Ohms. If the pump is working properly, you need to check the serviceability of the ECU.
Askoll drain pump installed in many Indesit CM models
The washing program selected on the control panel is not recognized
With this malfunction, code F06 occurs. This error is typical for AFM with EVO-II control systems. It does not appear in the Indesit AVD and AVL series. The reason may be erroneous operation of the control panel keys or a violation of the integrity of the contacts in the connectors of the connecting cables.
You can check the buttons for operation with a multimeter. For example, the contacts on the pins of the buttons are short-circuited when pressed - this means that the resistance between them is zero. At rest, the resistance is equal to infinity (break). If there is a malfunction, the resistance values will be different. The cables and connectors leading to the control unit are also checked.
Malfunctions associated with the pressure switch and heating element
There are several reasons for such malfunctions:
- lack of water in the inlet line or low pressure;
- clogged inlet hose or filter;
- failure of the filling valve;
- heating element malfunction;
- breakdown of the pressure switch (constantly gives a signal about an empty tank).
In most models of washing machines, the heating element has the same shape
In any of the above situations, the liquid does not heat up, or the heating element does not turn on. It is necessary to carry out diagnostics sequentially:
- inlet line;
- water pressure sensor;
- state of contact connections;
- control unit;
- heating element.
The heater in working condition has a resistance of 25–30 Ohms, it can be checked with a multimeter. A faulty pressure switch indicates that the tank is empty, although it is full.
The cause of the breakdown may be that the relay does not turn on the heating element. In this case, the serviceability of the relay is checked. You should also check whether the heating element has burnt out. The integrity of the contacts in the connectors and cables may be damaged.
Errors related to the ECU board
The memory chips located on the control unit board contain all service algorithms and washing programs. If a failure occurs, the memory must be removed from the ECU (unsoldered or removed from the microcircuit connectors) and reprogrammed with a special device - a programmer.
If the connection between the display module and the ECU board is broken, this malfunction of the Indesit washing machine manifests itself in the lack of response to buttons and the inability to execute programs. If after disconnecting from the 220 V network and rebooting the ACM nothing has changed, check the condition of the connectors and the reliability of the switching connections. The most likely fault is in the display module board or ECU.
Control and display module in some Indesit CM models
Instructions for use
Let's look at how to turn on the Indesit washing machine, how to properly start the operation and manage programs.
Each specific model comes with its own instruction manual. This thing is individual, since each device has its own structure and an individual set of programs. But there are general functions and rules of use that apply to all models.
The company offers you to choose the appropriate option among full-size, narrow and small-sized models that have either front or vertical loading.
- Open the machine door and load the laundry. Please note that the weight of the laundry should not exceed the maximum possible loading weight of the drum.
- Make sure the equipment is connected to power.
- Turn on the machine.
- Select the required washing program. Or programs such as spinning or soaking.
- Select the required temperature.
- Change program settings if necessary.
- Click the "Start" button and start the device.
Malfunctions of SMs equipped with a drying function
If code F13 appears on the display, this means that there is no signal from the drying temperature sensor. During diagnostics, an open or short circuit in the sensor circuit is detected. A working temperature meter should have a resistance within 40 kOhm. Causes: sensor malfunction or contact failure in the connecting circuit.
If there is a break in the circuit of the heating element intended for drying clothes, the reasons for the breakdown are the same - failure of the heater or failure of contact in the connecting circuit. A malfunction of the relay that turns on the heating element for drying may occur. The heater does not turn off, which indicates either a stuck relay or a broken contact in the connecting cable.
Problems with water entering the tank
This malfunction of the Indesit washing machine occurs when there is a shortage or overflow of liquid into the tank. There may be several reasons for the error:
- lack of water or low pressure;
- flush operation when water is filled;
- malfunction of the computer or display module;
- water pressure sensor malfunction.
Permanent draining is possible if the drain hose is not raised above the level of the tank. You can also check the water supply yourself. In other cases, you need to call a specialist.
Tips for using washing equipment
- Try not to wash at temperatures above 70 degrees. Due to high temperatures, scale very quickly envelops the parts of the washing machine, which leads to frequent breakdowns.
- After finishing the machine, leave the door and powder container slightly open.
- Try not to use a spin speed faster than 800 rpm.
- Avoid cheap powders, as they contain alkalis that negatively affect the integrity of the drain hose.
- To reduce the noise level generated by the device, place a rubber mat under it.
- Place the drain hose level with the top cover of the machine to prevent water from draining on its own.
The manufacturer offers devices with a basic set of functions and with advanced functionality.
