Ariston washing machine error code H20
Hotpoint Ariston washing machines are equipped with a self-diagnostic system, in which most codes begin with the letter F. Therefore, the appearance of the H20 code may seem strange. Let's figure out what it means and what to do in this case.
Decoding and description of symptoms
Error code h20 in an Ariston washing machine informs the user of a problem with the water inlet system. If you read the number zero as the letter O, you get the formula for water. Manufacturers adopted this formula to make it easier to remember this error, which can occur with any program. In most cases, the washing machine freezes before the rinse cycle.
An important feature of the H20 error is that when you start individual “Drain” or “Spin” modes, the machine operates normally and the error does not occur.
In addition, it is worth listing the symptoms that appear before the machine stops washing:
- no water is poured into the tank at all;
- too little water is supplied;
- the tank is filling up with too much water;
- Water entering the tank is immediately drained (self-draining).
Reasons for occurrence
Why does the system return this error? There are several reasons.
- The main cause is the inlet valve. It most often becomes clogged with debris and rust particles that enter the machine along with the water. It is possible that the valve contacts or the valve itself are faulty.
Don't forget to check that the water supply valve is open and the water pressure. This way, you won't have to troubleshoot the washing machine. - When water drains on its own, the cause is an incorrect connection of the drain hose to the sewer.
- If there is too little or too much water, then the cause should be sought in a faulty pressure switch.
- The least common cause of error H20 is a malfunction of the electronic module.
Please note that if the F01 code appears after the H20 error, the malfunction in the machine is most likely related to the second error.
Fill valve
The main problem with this error is the inlet valve. We'll describe it in more detail and discuss how to fix it. This part is located just behind the inlet hose. So, turn off the water and unscrew the inlet hose. You'll immediately see the inlet valve filter mesh. Carefully pull the mesh out with pliers and rinse it in water. If the mesh is rusted or very dirty, soak it in a citric acid solution for 20 minutes, then rinse and replace it.
If the problem is not a blockage, proceed to checking the part itself:
- remove the top cover of the washing machine to provide access to the appliance;
- check the valve contacts using a multimeter;
- test the fill valve itself;
- In case of breakdown, disconnect the inlet valve from the electrical system,
- unscrew it from the body;
- install a new part.
Pressure switch and drainage system
A water level sensor monitors the water intake of the washing machine, signaling the module about the amount of water drawn. If the sensor is faulty, either too much or too little water may enter the drum. It's easy to check this component yourself. Here's what you need to do:
- Remove the top cover of the Ariston washing machine.
- Find the pressure switch at the top of the machine.
- Check the pressure line connection for leaks. It could be loose or clogged, which will definitely affect the component's operation. The line could also be ruptured, in which case it will need to be replaced.
- Next, using a multimeter, check the sensor contacts and the wires leading to the pressure switch.
- If all the above elements are intact, then most likely the sensor itself is broken, which does not happen very often.
- Take a similar part for the Ariston washing machine and install it in place of the faulty one.
If the water drains on its own, immediately begin checking the drain hose. If the drain point is below the permissible level, water will begin to flow out of the tank. This can happen if the washing machine was initially connected to the drain incorrectly, or if the drain hose has fallen out of the latch on the back wall that holds it in an upright position. Read all about the drainage system and connection in the article. How to make a drain for a washing machine.
Electronic board
If, after checking the valve and pressure switch, the machine still displays an error, it's time to look at the control board. The most common cause is a burned-out triac or circuit responsible for controlling the water inlet valve. In this case, there's a chance the module can be repaired. You'll need a new component, a soldering iron, and patience. However, in most cases, we recommend entrusting this work to a professional. Just don't think we're discouraging you.
In very rare cases, an Ariston washing machine may freeze due to a firmware failure in the electronic board. Try unplugging the machine for 20 minutes and restarting the wash cycle; resetting the "brain" may resolve the issue. Otherwise, the board will need to be reflashed or replaced, which will be quite expensive.
Thus, the H20 error can lead to various components breaking down. But in most cases, the problem can be resolved on-site, at home. You can try the repairs yourself, following the instructions, or, if you prefer, call a professional. Good luck!
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What if the machine fills with water, then displays an H2O error message, and starts draining, then waits a bit after draining, and then starts filling again, and so on ad infinitum? Even with the H2O error message flashing, the rinse, spin, and drain cycles work in manual mode. This requires checking the pressure switch, am I correct?
The Ariston 605 fills with water (though not enough, in my opinion) and washes for 12-13 minutes on all settings. Then the h20 error message appears.
What is the reason?
The machine wasn't filling with water at all, and I immediately assumed it was a software issue. But cleaning the valve, which looked clogged and not too bad, helped. Thank you.
I just had this error: the cycle filled and drained for about two hours. I lowered the drain hose a bit. The water immediately filled up and the cycle continued.