Washing machine trouble shooting
Checking and clearing the filter
Normally washing machine filters are located in the bottom right hand corner of the machine, behind a panel or flap. If you can access the filter, unscrew it anti clockwise, rinse the filter and check there is no debris in the filter housing.
Please not that some water will come out of the filter hole - this is normal
Beware:
If the machine is full of water this will drain from the filter hole, so in this case we would advise calling out an engineer.
Draining the washing machine this way can cause a flooding to the floor and only undertake this method if you are feeling confident.
Cleaning and unblocking soap dispenser
The soap dispenser (draw) is normally located on the top left hand side of the washing machine, although this can sometime be on the right.
Open the draw, which can normally pull out all of the way. Once you have removed the washing machine soap dispenser, check that all little holes are clear.
One of the common faults is that the holes in the conditioner compartment become blocked. Be sure to make sure these are completely cleaned.
If the machine is completely dead
Sometimes this can be down to a faulty socket and could be a simple case of testing on another socket. If the machine now works, you'll need to call an electrician to replace your socket and not a domestic appliance engineer.
If the fuse is blown, this could be sign there is an additional fault with the washing machine and therefore we advise booking a call with an washing machine repair engineer.
If the machine smells or there is mould or mildew
If your machine smells or if there is mould or mildew in your washing machine, then putting the machine though a maintenance wash procedure might help.
Put the washing machine onto the hottest programme possible with no washing powder or soap products. Try this first.
If the problem persists, try again with a small cap of bleach directly into the drum and again run on the hottest programme. The bleach will kill the enzymes that produce the bad smells.
Check if the machine is on Child Lock
Some washing machines have a child lock facility, that stops children playing with the washing machine settings.
In many cases, if the child lock is set, you'll notice a lock or key type symbol in the display. If this is the case, please refer back to your washing machine instructions to remove the child lock function.
Washing machine not spinning
If you machine is not spinning, it could be that you are only washing one item or even just a very small load. Small loads effect the washing machines balance sensor which will not allow the washing machine drum to spin. try increasing the load by adding a few more items.