Washing modes in automatic washing machines are programmed algorithms of actions the machine must perform within a certain period of time. But sometimes the washing process needs to be interrupted or stopped to open the drum door. Few people know how to do this correctly. Furthermore, the stopping process may vary across different washing machine models.
Is it possible to open the washing machine door during washing?
After starting a wash cycle, unexpected situations may arise that require an emergency opening of the washing machine door. For example, failing to check pockets for large and small items could result in a phone, bank card, or other items ending up in the drum. In such a situation, stop the machine immediately and remove such items. A stuck phone could damage the drum door.
But what should I do? Is it even possible to stop the washing machine, and will it be possible to open the door? There are several ways to stop the machine. The easiest way is to disconnect the machine from the power supply. However, such a sudden shutdown can lead to damage to the electronic board or control unit.
The second method is suitable for machines with a dual-function "Start/Pause" button. Pressing this button will stop the wash cycle, but will prevent the door from being opened. To open the door, you'll still need to disconnect the power to the machine.
Another option is to turn the mode selector knob back to the original position if your washing machine doesn't have a "Pause" button. This will stop the machine. To open the door, select the "Drain" or "Spin" mode to drain the waste water. You can use emergency water drainage.
Experts advise that if the machine has a "Pause" button, you should first stop it and only then unplug it.
It is impossible to open the door of the washing machine after the washing has started; this is why there is a lock on the door. After all, water collected in the drum can spill out when opened. But this applies to front-loading machines. Top-loading washing machines are designed differently. After the wash cycle has started, most models allow you to open the lid and add laundry or remove any items that have accidentally fallen in. This prevents water from leaking out.
If the door doesn't open after a power outage, draining the drum, or even after the wash cycle has finished, the door lock is likely broken. You can read more about this in the article about Why won't the washing machine door open?.
Methods for opening the hatch in different washing machines
Different washing machine models have different methods for opening the door during a wash cycle. Let's look at the most common options.
Samsung washing machines. Everything in these machines depends on a sensor that detects the remaining water level in the drum. Therefore, the manufacturer recommends opening the door when stopping the wash cycle and draining the water through the drain filter or emergency drain.
ATLANT washing machines. These models feature a special emergency door release. For this purpose, the manufacturer has provided a cable to release the safety lock, located in the same location as the drain filter.
Electrolux and AEG washing machines. These machines have a "Pause" button that, when pressed, stops the machine. This happens if the water temperature in the drum is below 50°C.0C, the water level is below the level (in front models) and the drum does not rotate, then the safety lock is unlocked automatically.
LG and Beko washing machines. To stop and open the drum door, set the machine to pause mode. Then, unplug the power and wait 1 to 3 minutes. A click will then be heard, indicating the door is unlocked.
Bosch washing machines with a reload function. These are front-loading machines where the "Start" button also activates the reload function. If, after starting the function, you need to stop the process and open the door, press this button. If the display shows "YES," you can open the door. If the display shows "No," you cannot open the door.
Thus, Forcibly opening the drum door during washing should only be done in extreme emergency cases.After all, most washing machines require unplugging, which can affect the electronic board's functionality. So before you pull the plug, consider what's worse: a coin dangling inside the drum or a board repair.
Well done, but where am I supposed to put the water and the clothes? How do I spin out the winter down? I had to restart it and wait for it to finish spinning. It's an LG machine.
Washing modes in automatic washing machines are programmed algorithms of actions the machine must perform within a certain period of time. But sometimes the washing process needs to be interrupted or stopped to open the drum door. Few people know how to do this correctly. Furthermore, the stopping process may vary across different washing machine models.
Thank you so much! Our child put a glass in the drum before washing, and we didn't notice. We managed to get it out before it broke…
Well done, but where am I supposed to put the water and the clothes? How do I spin out the winter down? I had to restart it and wait for it to finish spinning. It's an LG machine.
Pull the cable out of the network and it will open.
There's no pause button. I pressed the on/off button and unplugged it. The door lock won't open; there's water inside. SOS!