Error E90 in a Zanussi washing machine

Error codes are a kind of user alert system that something is wrong with their washing machine. Zanussi washing machines also have this feature, but some codes are fairly easy to understand, while others require careful attention. Error code E90 falls into the latter category. Even if it's reset, it will reappear after 3-4 cycles, inevitably leaving the owner confused. What should you do in this case, and what causes error code E90?

Why did the error occur?

Typically, the regular occurrence of this code is associated with power surges. If you observe your machine closely, you'll notice that the E90 error appears when a light flickers, or, say, the refrigerator or microwave slows down while the washing machine is running. Any sudden increase or decrease in voltage will trigger the corresponding malfunction. However, if this is an isolated incident, you can easily reset the code and forget about it for a long time.

• Turn off the unit completely for 8-10 minutes.
• Start the machine.
• Press and hold the laundry type selection button and the last two buttons on the panel at the same time (the symbols vary from model to model).
• While holding down those 3 keys, turn off the machine again.
• Run in a couple of minutes.

If everything is done correctly, when you turn on the machine, you will see that the E90 error is no longer displayed on the screen, and the machine can continue to operate smoothly until the next power outage. However, in some cases, such a simple reboot does not help, since the surge leads either to damage of the electronic module or to its failure. To be sure, you need to run diagnostics on the control board.

Repair of the control module

Removing the electronic board on Zanussi washing machines is easy—depending on the model, you just need to remove either the front panel or the top panel. Once you reach the module, it's easy to remove.

Important! Although modern models are equipped with a protection feature to prevent electronics from being installed incorrectly (meaning the terminals cannot be installed incorrectly), it's best to save time by making notes or filming/photographing the process of removing the board to avoid any difficulties during installation.

After removing the module, inspect it and determine whether it requires professional intervention or whether you can repair it yourself with just a few skills. Perhaps the problem is something else entirely, and you won't need any repairs at all. Here are some signs that you need professional help:

• the board shows signs of burning, scorching or darkening;
• the varnish coating on the damping coils has a damaged appearance (fading, microcracks, etc.);
• the capacitor heads are swollen or torn at the cross notch;
• the pins of the microcircuit are not identical to each other in appearance, color, shape, etc. This indicates the presence of damage;
• The place where the processor is installed has darkened.

In these cases, you'll need to consult a professional to fix the problem, unless you're a professional soldering expert, as re-soldering some components is unlikely to be possible.

If power surges in your apartment are frequent, there are two ways to minimize the damage. The most reliable option is to buy and install a voltage stabilizer, connecting the washing machine and/or other devices to it. The second is to unplug the washing machine whenever possible. If it's not currently washing and a surge occurs, it won't affect the machine in any way.

1 reader comment

1. November 6, 2022 at 11:34 AM

   Irina:

   I'm writing from 2022! Thank you so much, I cleared the error and the machine is working. Otherwise, I would have had to call a repairman and pay for it!

   Answer