Error F02 in a Whirlpool washing machine

The longer we use a washing machine, the higher the risk of various problems. Error code F02 is considered one of the most common in Whirlpool washing machines. It indicates that the system has detected a leak or blockage in the inlet valve. In this situation, the AquaStop system will activate, and the appliance will lock out of the current cycle. We'll list the main causes of this problem and what you can do to fix it at home.

Why did Aquastop work?

Error code F02 informs the user that his floors and the ceilings of the neighbors below have just been protected from flooding using the Aquastop system. This smart system operates on both sides of the washing machine: an electromagnetic valve is installed in the inlet hose, and a sensor with a float is located in the tray below. If the "home assistant" detects a leak, the following will happen in the system:

• the liquid will flow down the body and tank directly into the pan;
• when the water level is exceeded, the float will rise up;
• when the float moves to a vertical position, the sensor will be triggered;
• The valve mechanism will receive a signal about a leak in the system, as well as an order to stop the fluid intake;
• the valve will stop the water;
• the control module CM will stop working;
• The machine will shut down urgently.

Thus, the Aquastop system is activated when an excessive amount of liquid accumulates in the Whirlpool washing machine's tray. Aquastop rarely activates without an apparent cause, so it's usually activated by leaks. Why would water accumulate in the tray?

• The drain or fill hose may be leaking - they may have torn or come off the tee.
• The clamps on the pipes have become loose.
• The washing machine tank is damaged.
• The powder receiver is clogged because the pipe in the hopper is clogged or a foreign object is stuck in it.
• The seal has shifted.
• The tympanic cuff is deformed.

If the aquastop is activated, the machine will stop working and the error code F02 will appear on the display. When the equipment does not have a display, the machine will inform the user of the problem with a bright indicator. All possible reasons have been listed, let's move on to diagnostics and repair.

We fix the Aquastop breakdown

Immediately after the Aquastop is triggered, the "home assistant" must be thoroughly checked. To do this, first turn off the monitoring system, dispose of the waste liquid, and determine what exactly is leaking in the washing machine's housing. The easiest way is to call a service center specialist, but this simple problem can also be solved at home. What can you do to troubleshoot the problem at home?

• Interrupt the active work cycle, which can be done by turning the program selector knob to the "Off" position.
• Activate drain mode.

If the instrument panel does not respond to user commands, drain all the used fluid using a waste filter.

• Unplug the washing machine.
• Tilt the body of the device until all the liquid has drained from the tray.

Only after all these steps have been completed can you begin diagnosing your "home assistant." The AquaStop system automatically shuts off once the water has been drained from the tray, and the float returns to its original position. However, the same problem will recur during the next cycle if the situation is not corrected. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly check all possible causes of the malfunction.

You should start with the inlet hose, as it can sometimes come loose from the clamps or even crack, causing leaks. If the inlet hose is fine, then you need to check the condition of all other hoses leading to the tank, pump, and detergent drawer, as well as the main drain hose for leaks.

Next, you need to inspect the pump and the volute, as if these parts of the drainage system are faulty, the water flow will stop, the washing machine will overflow, and a leak will form. Next, inspect the seal and dispenser for cracks. If the cause of the malfunction is still not identified, you will have to partially disassemble the unit to check the seal and the tank. If the Aquastop activates with a dry pan, this indicates that the sensor itself is damaged, so it should be tested with a standard multimeter. If it turns out that the Aquastop itself is at fault, then repairs in this case are not necessary – you just need to replace the element.

Clogged intake valve

What should you do if all components are working properly, including the Aquastop system? In this case, you should also inspect the filter mesh installed in the inlet valve. A clogged filter element can also cause the F02 error code. Follow the instructions to check the filter.

• Disconnect your "home assistant" from all communications.
• Ensure free access to the rear wall of the CM.
• Remove the inlet hose.
• At the location where the filling hose is installed, find the filter element and remove it, first securing it with pliers.
• Rinse the mesh under a strong stream of hot tap water or soak it in a citric acid solution for several hours.
• Put all the parts back in place.

After these steps, water intake should become much faster, as you can verify during the idle cycle. If the F02 error disappears after this, the repair has been successful.

   

Readers' comments