Error F17 in a Siemens washing machine

Any washing program launched on an automatic washing machine begins with filling the tank with water. The main control unit monitors the liquid level by analyzing the readings transmitted by the pressure switch. If the tank doesn't fill with the required amount of water within the allotted time, the system will generate the error code F17. We'll tell you how to fix this error on your Siemens washing machine right now.

Let's start with the filter in front of the valve

Due to the poor quality of tap water, Siemens washing machine manufacturers equip their machines with a special filter designed to prevent debris and other particles from entering the system. Impurities contained in water often clog the flow-through filter mesh of the washing machine's inlet valve.

The filter is placed in front of the inlet valve, directly in the hole where the water intake hose is connected.

Often, the code is caused by a clogged plastic filter mesh. Cleaning the element doesn't require any special skills or knowledge; even a housewife unfamiliar with washing machine operation can handle the job. To clear the clog, follow these steps:

• de-energize the Siemens washing machine, close the shut-off valve;
• Unscrew the inlet hose from the opening. Remember that some liquid always remains in the hose, so it's best to place a rag under the connection before unscrewing. Once the hose is unhooked from the housing, you'll have free access to the filter.
• lightly squeeze the filter mesh with pliers and pull it out of the cavity;
• Rinse the filter under running warm water. If more intensive cleaning is needed, soak the filter mesh in a prepared citric acid solution (1 teaspoon per 250 ml) for half an hour to an hour. Monitor the temperature of the solution; it should remain warm. Boiling water can warp the plastic, requiring a new filter.
• Install the clean filter mesh back into its original position until it stops. You can press the part in using pliers;
• Screw in the washing machine inlet hose.

After this, you can open the shut-off valve and ensure that the inlet hose connection to the machine body is not leaking. Plug the machine in and select any wash cycle. If the F17 error no longer appears on the display, the problem was a clogged filter.

Problems with the intake valve

What should you do if cleaning the filter mesh doesn't help? You'll need to check the Siemens washing machine's inlet valve. It's located directly under the top cover of the machine, attached to the back panel. After removing the top panel, you'll definitely see a component with several connected tubes that feed liquid into the detergent drawer. The procedure for repairing the inlet valve yourself is as follows:

• remove the top cover of the case by unscrewing a pair of bolts holding it;
• Inspect the solenoid valve, it may have visible damage.

If a visual inspection reveals no information, the valve will need to be removed. To do this, loosen the metal clamps and disconnect the hoses connected to the valve. Disconnect the power supply from the element. Before removing the wires, it is advisable to take a photo of the connection diagram to avoid mistakes during reassembly. All that remains is to unscrew the bolts that secure the part to the wall and remove the valve.

It is recommended to perform the inlet valve diagnostics over a sink, bathtub, or empty container to avoid wetting the floor covering.

First, inspect the appliance and its pipes for blockages. Then, connect the inlet hose to the valve and turn on the water supply. A properly functioning element will prevent leaks. If a leak occurs, you'll need to install a new valve.

Further testing should be performed with extreme caution. A 220V voltage is applied to the element's coils. During this procedure, the section should open and fill with water. This testing method is dangerous, as contact between liquid and electricity can cause a short circuit.

A multimeter can help you accurately determine whether the fill valve needs replacing. Set the measuring device to resistance mode. Apply the tester's probes one by one to the valve coil. A working sensor should indicate a resistance of approximately 3 kOhm. Repairing the solenoid valve is pointless. You need to purchase a new part and replace the faulty component. The procedure is as follows:

• secure the valve to the wall of the washing machine with a fixing bolt;
• connect the wires to the required connectors;
• attach the hoses in place using the clamps;
• Put the top panel of the case back in place and tighten the retaining screws.

By following these steps, you can easily replace the inlet valve, a malfunction of which could be causing the F17 error. After completing these steps, plug in your Siemens washing machine and run a test wash.

Let's check the pressure switch

Error F17 may be displayed due to a faulty pressure switch. The level sensor measures the volume of water in the tank. If it is not functioning correctly, an incorrect signal is transmitted to the control module, and the “brain” blocks the operation of the washing machine. To diagnose the pressure switch, you need to:

• unplug the Siemens washing machine's power cord from the socket;
• close the inlet valve responsible for taking water from the utilities;
• remove the cover of the automatic machine;
• Find the pressure switch. It is usually attached to the side wall of the unit;
• take a tube with a diameter corresponding to the dimensions of the pressure switch fitting;
• disconnect the pressure hose, having first loosened the clamp;
• Place a tube against the nozzle and blow lightly into it.

A functioning level sensor will produce one or three distinctive clicks. If the device makes no sound, it's probably faulty.

Inspect the pressure switch for defects and mechanical damage. Make sure its hose is not clogged. If any dirt is found in the cavity, be sure to rinse the hose with warm running water.

If a visual inspection doesn't allow you to determine whether the pressure switch is faulty, you can check the sensor with a multimeter. Set the device to resistance mode and apply its probes to the pressure switch relay contacts. The readings on the multimeter display will change as the contacts are triggered. If the readings remain unchanged, the level sensor is not working. To determine which pressure switch contacts to connect the multimeter to, first study the device's electrical diagram.

There's no point in repairing a broken water level sensor. It's better to buy a new part that matches your Siemens machine model. Moreover, a pressure switch is inexpensive.

   

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