Converting a Gorenje washing machine with a water tank to a water supply

At first glance, the Gorenje washing machine with a tub seems like a unique device, as it can be used both without running water, for example, at a summer cottage, and with running water, like a regular washing machine. However, the problem is that this "home helper" can't be used with running water; it requires significant modifications first. We'll explain how to properly convert a Gorenje washing machine with a tub to run on running water at home.

Adapting the Gorenje machine to a water supply

Of course, it's not easy to repurpose household appliances yourself, but it's possible if you follow our instructions. The most important thing to understand before starting work is that you cannot remove the water tank from the equipment and then simply connect the inlet hose to it. This is because such a device uses a dual-coil pump mounted in a special two-way volute. Furthermore, this complex machine is also equipped with an unusual inlet valve that is not suitable for use with a water supply.

That's why, before you begin converting your washing machine, you need to find the inlet valve and the wiring that should connect to the pump. The idea is to remove the old inlet valve, install a new one in its place, and then connect it to the dual pump via a standard connector. This will activate the valve and start one impeller of the pump, causing it to begin pumping water out of the tank. What do you do to achieve this?

• Disconnect the Gorenje washing machine from the power supply and water supply.
• Move the appliance away from the wall so you can access its rear panel.
• Remove the clips holding the top panel of the case, and then remove the cover itself.
• Next, you need to remove the screws securing the back panel of the machine, and then set this element aside.
• In the upper corner, find the inlet valve, from which you need to disconnect all the wires and pipes, and then remove the valve itself.

Be sure to take several photos of the correct wiring and connections to use as a reference during reassembly.

• Install the new inlet valve in its seat, connect the pipes and wires with connectors to it, and then run the wiring to the pump.
• Connect the plug to the pump output.
• Assemble the “home assistant” according to these instructions in reverse order.

You can buy any common component as an inlet valve, as long as it's high-quality. You don't have to worry about the inlet hose either, as the valves have universal thread sizes, so there's no room for error.

How to use a Gorenje machine without modification?

Since such modifications affect the manufacturer's warranty and also deprive the equipment of its autonomy, experts recommend using this type of Gorenje machine without making any modifications to its design. This type of washing machine can operate almost completely autonomously, since before the start of the cycle, its tank is filled with approximately 30-40 liters of water, which depends on the volume of the tank.

It's crucial that the tank be filled with clean water, free of debris, leaves, insects, and other substances that could penetrate the internal components of the washing machine and cause damage. That's why it's best to fill the tank with pre-purified water, or even better, filtered water, especially if it was collected from a river or lake.

The tank itself has a filter for added safety, but it only filters large debris, so the user is still responsible for the safety of the equipment. To fill the tank, open the lid and pour liquid exactly to the line markings. Once the lid is securely closed, the cycle can begin.

As with any washing machine, the first step is to add detergent to the detergent drawer. It's divided into several compartments, each with a specific purpose.

• The compartment with the English letter "B" or the Roman numeral "II" is for washing powder or gel added for the main stage of washing.
• The compartment with the English letter “A” or the Roman numeral “I” is the same household chemicals, but for the preliminary stage of washing.
• The compartment with a star or flower icon is for fabric softener, which helps soften clothes.

Typically, users use this compartment for the main washing cycle, ignoring the other two sections. However, they often add additional household chemicals to the main compartment, such as:

• stain remover;
• bleach;
• descaler.

Under no circumstances should you confuse the purpose of the trays, as improper loading of household chemicals may damage your "household helper" or clothing.

The programmer on the washing machine's dashboard is also very easy to use, as it features labels indicating the operating modes. All a housewife needs to do is turn the program selector to the desired setting, adjust the spin cycle or water heating as needed, and then begin the cycle using the "Start/Stop" button.

The machine should only be started after the dirty clothes are in the drum. This process is also crucial, as proper sorting and placement of laundry in the washing machine not only affects the quality of the wash and the safety of the clothes, but also the lifespan of your Gorenje washing machine. To avoid accidental damage, follow these recommendations.

• Be sure to sort items by fabric type, color, and degree of soiling.
• Items made from delicate fabrics should be processed separately, separating silk, linen, synthetics, and so on into different washes.
• If your clothes simply need to be refreshed and don't have any serious stains, you should choose a daily or quick wash cycle.
• When it is necessary to remove stubborn stains, you should use an intensive program with the pre-wash mode activated.
• Be sure to check the pockets of your clothes before loading them into the drum – coins, paper clips, hairpins, keys and other small items can damage the internal components of the washing machine.
• It is better to unfasten removable parts of items before washing in a machine so that you can wash them by hand.
• It would be a good idea to zip up all zippers and other fasteners, and also turn terrycloth and knitted items, as well as outerwear, inside out – this way the items will better retain their original appearance.

Once the drum is full, close the door until it clicks into place and return the detergent drawer to its normal position. Check the water tank to make sure it's filled to the manufacturer's specifications. Select the desired operating mode and start your "home assistant" using the "Start/Stop" button. The machine will then begin the wash cycle without any need for supervision. Once the cycle is complete, the machine will alert you with a loud beep.

Don't worry about running out of water and not having enough for a wash - the tank is designed to hold enough water for any wash cycle when filled to the mark.

Don't rush to open the door, as it will remain locked for several minutes after the wash cycle is complete. Once the door is removed by the control module, you can access the drum to remove clean clothes. Be sure to leave the door and detergent drawer open for at least a few hours to allow the machine's key components to dry completely and prevent mold from forming.

   

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