For the laundry to be properly washed, the washing machine needs hot water, heated by a resistance. On high-end washing machines, an error message may be displayed to warn you of the failure.
If you have an older model, it will be very easy for you to recognize the symptoms of heating failure. Generally your laundry will not be properly washed and may give off a bad smell.
To be sure, just start a program at 60°, then after 20 minutes put your hand on the door of your machine. You should feel the heat generated by the program.
Discovering that your washing machine is no longer heating can be frustrating and inconvenient. Cold water may not effectively clean your clothes, and you may be left wondering why your washing machine is failing to heat the water as it should. There are several possible reasons for this issue, ranging from electrical problems to malfunctions with internal components of the washing machine. In this article, we will explore the most common causes for a washing machine no longer heating and the steps you can take to address this problem.
1. Check the Temperature Setting
The first step is to check if the temperature setting on your washing machine is correct. Make sure that the temperature selector knob or button is set to the appropriate position for hot water. Sometimes, a simple adjustment of the temperature setting can resolve the issue.
2. Verify the Hot Water Supply
Ensure that the hot water supply to your washing machine is properly functioning. Check the hot water taps to ensure they are fully open and that hot water is available. If you are not receiving hot water, there may be an issue with your home’s water heater or with the hot water supply itself.
3. Check the Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Fuses and circuit breakers are important safety devices in your home that protect electrical appliances from overloads and short circuits. Check the circuit breaker dedicated to your washing machine in the electrical panel to ensure it has not tripped. Also, inspect the fuses in the washing machine to see if they are intact. If a fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same type and rating.
4. Inspect the Heating Element
The heating element is the component responsible for producing heat in your washing machine. If the heating element is faulty, the washing machine will be unable to heat the water properly. To inspect the heating element, you will need a multimeter. Turn off the washing machine, unplug it from the power source, and remove the back panel. Locate the heating element and measure the continuity by placing the multimeter probes on the element’s terminals. If the heating element does not show continuity, it needs to be replaced.
5. Call a Professional
If you have performed all the above checks and your washing machine still does not heat, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional. Electrical issues and internal malfunctions in the washing machine may require specialized skills and knowledge to repair. A qualified technician can diagnose the exact cause of the problem and carry out the necessary repairs safely.
In conclusion, when your washing machine is no longer heating, there are several potential causes, including incorrect settings, electrical issues, or internal component malfunctions. By following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you can identify and address some common problems. However, if you are not comfortable with electrical repairs or if the problem persists, it is best to contact a professional to diagnose and repair your washing machine.