Error E01 in a Zanussi washing machine

Statistically, the most common error message displayed by a Zanussi washing machine is the E01 error. Sometimes you can clear the code by rebooting the machine, but sometimes more targeted and decisive action is required to resolve the problem. Otherwise, the washing machine will remain frozen, preventing you from completing a cycle. A Zanussi won't be fixed easily—you need to decipher the displayed code and determine the cause of the malfunction. Step-by-step instructions and explanations will help you solve the problem.

What kind of malfunction does the code scream about?

There is usually no choice of what to do when the E01 error appears on a Zanussi. If rebooting the system does not help, a technical glitch is ruled out, and troubleshooting begins. The first step is to decipher the combination displayed on the screen. No need to guess – just consult the manufacturer's instructions and carefully read the manufacturer's explanation.

Typically, a "one" indicates a problem with the water drainage system. The washing machine failed to empty the drum within the allotted four minutes. The board detected the delay, stopped the cycle, and the self-diagnostic system displayed an error code on the screen.

The following problems may be hidden behind the E01 error code:

• the pump is clogged or broken;
• the drain hose is clogged or pinched;
• The trash filter is dirty.

The E01 error code on Zanussi indicates a non-functioning drain.

To clear the error and resume washing, you'll need to check each element of the drainage system one by one. It's recommended to start with the "easy" debris filter and finish with the pump, which is more difficult to clean and diagnose. We'll discuss exactly what to do next.

Cleaning the lint filter element

A drain system inspection begins with the debris filter. This is a small plastic "spiral" that traps most of the debris that gets into the washing machine. Without regular cleaning, the filter becomes clogged, preventing wastewater from flowing from the drum into the drain. This is especially true if large debris, such as paper, coins, keys, a strand of hair, or a child's sock, gets into the drum.

The drain filter is located in the lower right part of the housing, behind the access hatch. To access and clean it, you must follow a specific procedure.

1. Remember safety precautions. First, disconnect the Zanussi from the power supply and water supply, otherwise there is a risk of flooding or electric shock.
2. Gain access to the filter. Pry the access door off the housing with a screwdriver. Carefully press the plastic retaining clips.
3. Prepare your work area. Unscrewing the filter is a dirty and wet job. Tilt the machine back, place a basin underneath, and line the surrounding area with plastic sheeting and rags.
4. Unscrew the filter. Simply grasp the protruding part of the plug and, turning counterclockwise, pull the nozzle out. It's best to do this slowly, so that the water flows in a thin stream.
5. Clean the nozzle. First, rinse the filter, then clean it with an old toothbrush. For heavy buildup, soak it in a warm lemon solution. Avoid using hot water, as this may warp the plastic.

Cleaning doesn't stop there. It's also important to shine a flashlight into the filter housing, remove any large debris, and wipe the filter walls with a damp cloth.

The waste filter cannot be washed or soaked in boiling water – maximum 40 degrees!

The clean filter is returned to its original position and screwed in clockwise. The access door is then secured to the housing, and the appliance is connected to the utilities. You need to immediately check the quality of the repair: turn on any short cycle and monitor the display. If the error does not appear, then the problem has been resolved.

Let's take out and check the drain pump.

It's best not to stop after cleaning the filter, but to immediately inspect the entire drainage system. More specifically, the pump and its impeller. In this case, the "spiral" is not inserted into place, and a hand or a hooked piece of wire is inserted into the hole. The goal is to reach the impellers on the pump and check their rotation. It should be neither too tight nor too loose.

Trying to "fix" a dislodged impeller to the pump axle with electrical tape or glue is unacceptable - such a move will only delay the necessary repair!

If the blades aren't moving, the cause—a stuck object or tangled hair—must be eliminated. A dislodged impeller, like a broken one, cannot be repaired; it's best to replace it immediately with a working part.

It's also advisable to conduct a comprehensive pump diagnostic. Here's how:

• turn Zanussi over onto its right side;
• we look through the bottom and find the pump;
• We apply the probes of the multimeter, set to measure resistance, to the pump contacts.

Next, check the tester's readings: if the screen displays "0," the pump isn't working; if it displays more, everything is fine. However, don't stop there. We recommend disassembling the pump housing and manually cleaning the device from all sides. Then, return the device to its original location, run a test wash, and wait for the "E01" error to disappear.

The drain hose is clogged

The third reason for the E01 error message appearing on a Zanussi is a problem with the drain hose. Typically, this is caused by a clogged hose. Checking for debris in the hose is easy: simply disconnect one end from the pump by lifting the machine, and the other end from the drain pipe.

Next, remove the blockage by rinsing the hose under water or soaking it in a soapy solution. It's important that the water isn't hot, as high temperatures can cause the rubber to warp. For heavy deposits, it is recommended to use special cleaners - citric acid, soda, or store-bought cleaning solutions for washing machines.

If the clog is firmly lodged in the pipe, flushing it won't help. You'll need to push the clog out with a wire:

• find an aluminum or metal wire with a cross-section of at least 5 mm;
• Use pliers to bend one end into a ring;
• insert a hook into the hose and try to clear the blockage;
• rinse the sleeve under the tap.

A clog isn't always the problem. It's not uncommon for a temporarily inoperative sewer system to be to blame. Sometimes the problem is a kinked or displaced hose. In this case, fixing the problem is much easier—simply adjust the hose. The main thing is to remember to inspect the corrugated pipe regularly: the plastic should be intact, free of damage, cracks, or other defects. Remember, otherwise, leaks are inevitable.

Error E01 on Zanussi machines appears if the drain hose is pinched, shifted or clogged.

Fixing the "E01" error on your Zanussi is easy. Simply thoroughly clean the drainage system and, if necessary, replace any damaged parts with new ones.

   

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