Error code F01 in a Gorenje washing machine

Sometimes, after starting the washing machine, users hear strange sounds, after which the device freezes. At the same time, the Gorenje washing machine displays error code F01. How does the code decipher? What faults does the washing machine indicate? Can you repair your "home assistant" yourself? Let's delve into the details.

List of possible sources of the problem

First, you need to decipher the error code displayed on the screen. To do this, refer to the manual for your Gorenje washing machine – it contains a description of all possible self-diagnostic system notifications. Error F01 indicates problems with water intake.

Water intake problems can occur for a variety of reasons. You'll need to check several components responsible for filling the washing machine. It's helpful to know that certain faults occur more frequently in Gorenje machines than others. These include the following:

• failure of the intake valve;
• clogging of the mesh filter installed in front of the inlet valve;
• incorrect operation of the pressure switch;
• failure of the hatch locking device;
• damage to the main control module.

Most often, the F01 error on Gorenje washing machines is caused by a broken inlet valve or a clogged water supply mesh.

A clear sign that the inlet valve is broken is unrinsed detergent in the drawer. The water flows through the hose first to the detergent drawer. Therefore, if the granules are still in the drawer and the machine displays F01, you should check the inlet valve.

A 220-volt voltage is applied to the solenoid valve. If you hear a click, it means the circuit is closed and everything is OK. Otherwise, the element will need to be replaced; it cannot be repaired. Valves are tested in pairs and are easily replaced with a flat-head screwdriver.

Another common cause of error F01 is a clogged filter installed after the inlet hose, before the valve. Inspect the filter. If there is deposits or limescale buildup on the element, remove the metal part with pliers and clean it with a brush. Then, reinstall it.

The washing machine may not fill due to the pressure switch. If the water level sensor is broken, it will transmit incorrect information to the control module. For example, it may indicate that the tank is full when it's empty. The control module, receiving a signal indicating a large volume of liquid, will interrupt the filling process. As a result, the machine will remain empty and display error code F01.

To check the pressure switch, you'll need to remove the top cover of the washing machine. The sensor is round and has a tube attached to it. Disconnect the hose from the element and blow into it. You should hear one or two clicks. Sometimes the tube gets clogged, and this "blowing" helps restore the washing machine's functionality.

It's also worth checking the wire running from the water level sensor to the tank. The cable wears out, causing an imbalance in the pressure switch. If defects are identified, replace the element.

Sometimes a damaged control module prevents proper water intake. This could be caused by burned-out resistors, corroded contacts, swelling, or rust. You'll need to either replace the semiconductors or purchase and install a new circuit board.

If the door lock fails, the machine won't start filling with water either. The "brain" won't command the tank to fill until the system is sealed. In this situation, error code F01 may also occur.

A malfunctioning drain pump can trigger the error. If the "brain" doesn't receive a signal from the pump that it's ready to drain, the cycle won't start. The machine will remain empty and display an error code.

What do we do first?

What should a user do if error F01 appears on the display? If on a washing machine Gorenje If the warranty is still valid, do not attempt to disassemble the device yourself; contact a service center immediately. Our specialists will perform a free diagnostic and, if the breakdown was not your fault, they will repair your washing machine.

If the warranty has long expired, there's no point in hoping for free service. Therefore, you can try to find the fault and fix it yourself. Most problems that cause the F01 error can be resolved independently.

First, rule out trivial causes: make sure there is water in the pipes, the shut-off valve is in the correct position, and the hatch door is tightly closed.

Gorenje washing machine diagnostics progress from the simplest to the most complex. What should you do first if your washing machine isn't filling?

• Check if the water supply to the house has been turned off.
• Make sure the shut-off valve in front of the washing machine is open.
• Check that the hatch door is closed tightly.
• Inspect the inlet hose for kinks and blockages.

Next, disconnect the inlet hose from both the machine and the pipe. Rinse it under running water. If the liquid flows freely, the corrugated hose is not clogged.

Next in line to check is the water supply filter. The metal screen often becomes clogged with limescale and debris. The screen is located in front of the inlet valve. Here's how to do it:

• disconnect the inlet hose from the washing machine;
• inspect the inlet valve, find the filter mesh;
• Use pliers to grasp the protrusion on the grille and pull out the filter element;
• clean the mesh with a toothpick and rinse in water;
• put the filter back in place.

It's also worth checking the coarse filter. It's located in front of the inlet hose. The procedure here is different. Take two wrenches, hold the joint with one, and loosen the retaining bolt with the other. Beforehand, place a basin under the pipe and cover the floor with dry rags.

Unscrewing the bolt will cause water to flow under high pressure. The stream will flush the filter. After 30-40 seconds, replace the nut and tighten the screw.

Water inlet valve or heating element

Gorenje washing machines often fail to fill with water due to a faulty inlet valve. The valve simply stops opening, preventing water from entering the system. The inlet valve cannot be repaired; the entire valve must be replaced.

A new inlet valve is purchased for a specific Gorenje washing machine model. The spare part is inexpensive. You can replace it yourself; you'll need a screwdriver and pliers. Here's how:

• unplug the washing machine;
• turn off the valve responsible for the water supply;
• disconnect the inlet hose from the washing machine;
• remove the top cover of the case by unscrewing the screws holding the panel;
• Take a photo of the wiring diagram and connections to the solenoid valve;
• Using pliers, disconnect the pipes from the valve terminals;
• remove the screw securing the valve;
• remove the electromagnetic valve from the washing machine housing;
• install the new valve in its original place and secure it with a bolt;
• connect the dropped wires to the element and connect the hoses;
• check that all elements are securely fastened;
• put the top panel of the washing machine back in place;
• connect the inlet hose to the machine;
• Run a test cycle to check the washing machine.

A faulty heating element can also prevent the machine from filling with water. Replacing the heating element is quite simple:

• de-energize the machine, close the shut-off valve;
• remove the back wall of the washing machine housing by unscrewing the bolts holding the panel;
• find the heater (it is located under the tank);
• take a photo of the wiring diagram for the heating element;
• disconnect the temperature sensor and ground wires from the heater;
• loosen the nut holding the heating element;
• Using rocking movements, pull out the heater together with the sealing rubber;
• lubricate the cuff with dishwashing liquid, put the elastic back into the “nest”;
• install the new heating element in place;
• connect the wires to the heater, connect the temperature sensor;
• Assemble the machine body and run a test cycle.

The drain pump is next to be checked. Try cleaning the inside of the pump. If the element is burned out, it will need to be replaced.

Finally, the electronic module may be the culprit. It's difficult to check and repair the board yourself without the necessary knowledge and experience. Therefore, it's best to entrust module diagnostics to specialists.

   

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