Why doesn't my Indesit washing machine fill with water?

Sometimes, after starting a wash cycle, the machine fails to fill with water. The machine seems to be trying to fill, but no water is being drawn into the system. Checking whether the system is filling is very simple. You can remove the detergent drawer halfway – if the detergent is slightly damp, the system is still filling. If it's completely dry, the Indesit washing machine isn't filling at all. Let's look at what could be causing this problem and how to fix it yourself.

List of possible problems

There are many factors that can cause the machine's tank to not fill with water. The cause of the malfunction could be a simple blockage of the inlet hose, or a breakdown of the main control module. However, some problems occur in washing machines more frequently than others, making it easier to identify the problem area. What kind of damage are we talking about?

• A faulty water inlet valve. The main symptom of this malfunction is unwashed detergent from the dispenser. To confirm or rule out damage, you'll need to check the component. The water inlet valve is supplied with 220V power. If you hear a distinctive click, it means there's a short circuit and the component is working. If the valve doesn't respond to the supplied voltage, the component will need to be replaced. If the clicking sound doesn't occur, reinstalling the valve is easy at home.
• Clogged inlet filter. If the filter mesh is dirty and blocking liquid, the machine will try to draw water, making an unusual buzzing sound.
• A broken pressure switch. A faulty water level sensor signals the "brain" that the tank is full, even though it's empty. Of course, in this case, no liquid will flow into the system. You should check the pressure switch—it's located just under the top cover of the washing machine and looks like a round element with a tube extending into the machine. Testing the sensor is easy: disconnect the tube from the "box" and blow into it. If you hear clicking sounds, the pressure switch is working properly. Sometimes, due to prolonged stagnation, the hose becomes clogged with dust and debris, but after "blowing it out," it resumes working properly.
• Control board malfunction. In some cases, burnt-out resistors on the main module of the washing machine prevent the washing machine from filling completely. This can be corrected by replacing the control board components or installing a new one. Electronic repair is a fairly serious matter requiring specific skills and knowledge, so it's best to entrust this task to an experienced technician.
• Burnt-out pump. If the pump doesn't send a signal to the main control module that it's ready to drain the system, the "brain" won't allow the wash cycle to begin. Fixing this problem yourself is quite difficult; it's best to contact a service center for assistance.

Most often, an Indesit washing machine does not fill with water due to a broken inlet valve, clogged pipes and hoses, a failed pressure switch, or problems with the pump.

During the diagnostic process, it's also worth inspecting the wire running from the water level sensor to the tank. It may be worn out and leaking air, interfering with the pressure switch. A faulty door locking mechanism could also be the cause. If the door isn't sealed properly, the intelligent system won't allow the machine to fill the tank.

Do-it-yourself surface diagnostics

What can I do to restore my washing machine to working order? If your washing machine was recently purchased and is still under warranty, it's best to contact a service center. Specialists will diagnose the washing machine and repair it free of charge. Avoid tampering with the machine yourself during the warranty period.

First of all, make sure that the reason is not due to simple inattention. Check that water is supplied to the apartment, the hatch door is locked, and the inlet valve is not closed. If there are no problems with this, you'll need to check the unit's components one by one. You need to move from simple to complex, gradually eliminating possible causes.

Before starting diagnostics, be sure to close the shut-off valve and de-energize the equipment.

So, if the machine does not fill with water, but makes a slight "buzzing" sound, you need to remove the inlet hose from the machine, inspect it for defects, kinks, and rinse its cavity under running water.

If cleaning the inlet hose doesn't help, it's worth checking the inlet filter mesh. The fine mesh often becomes clogged with debris and stops the flow of liquid. The procedure is as follows:

• disconnect the inlet hose from the body;
• examine the internal structure of the valve, find the mesh;
• Use pliers to grasp the protrusion on the filter;
• pull the mesh towards you (without trying to twist it);
• clean the filter surface with a toothpick, needle, rinse under running water;
• install the mesh back in place.

Next, it's time to tackle the deep filter. This element is installed after the faucet and periodically suffers from scale buildup. Here, the approach is a little different. Use two wrenches, one to hold the joint, and the other to loosen the retaining nut. First, place a basin under the pipe and run a strong stream of water. The pressure will remove the impurities. All that's left to do is replace the nut.

Let's pay attention to the valve and the heating element.

However, most often, Indesit washing machines fail to fill due to faulty valves. These parts cannot be repaired, so if they fail, they must be completely replaced. What should you do if you discover problems with the water inlet valves? Follow these steps:

• disconnect the inlet hose from the valves, drain the remaining water into a pre-prepared container;
• Unscrew the bolts holding the top cover of the case and move it aside;
• take a photo of the layout of the connectors on the coil, then disconnect the wires;
• Using pliers, detach the hoses from the terminals. Remember that liquid always accumulates in the hoses;
• loosen the screw that secures the valve;
• remove the inlet valve;
• install the new part in its original place and secure it;
• put the hoses back in place, connect the wiring;
• check that the elements are securely fastened;
• put back the previously removed housing cover and secure it with screws;
• connect the inlet hose;
• plug the machine into the power supply, open the shut-off valve;
• Run a test wash to check the equipment.

Another reason why an Indesit washing machine won't fill the tank is a faulty heating element. If you inspect the heating element and discover a thick layer of scale, and your multimeter indicates a fault, you'll need to replace the element. Here's a detailed guide:

• remove the top cover of the machine;
• Unscrew the bolts around the perimeter of the rear panel of the case and set it aside;
• find the heating element, it is located below, behind the drive belt;
• Using pliers, disconnect the contacts of the temperature sensor and ground;

It is better to record the wiring diagram on a photo or a piece of paper so as not to mix up the contacts during reassembly.

• loosen the nut securing the tubular heater;
• grab the heating element, gently swing it, and pull it out of the housing together with the sealing cuff;
• treat the surface of the seal with dishwashing liquid, insert the cuff back into place;
• install a new heating element and secure it with a nut;
• Connect the wiring, ground contact, temperature sensor.

If the heating element diagnostics did not reveal any problems, and the inlet valves are also in perfect order, the locking device should be inspected. It is possible that the UBL is defective, so the hatch cannot close tightly, and the board does not give a signal to start water intake. You'll need to disconnect the power to the washing machine again, arm yourself with tools and a multimeter, and begin checking the locking mechanism. The locking elements are tested with a tester, and if necessary, parts are replaced or the contacts are cleaned.

If you have enough free time, you can try to fix your Indesit washing machine's inability to fill yourself. However, if the problem turns out to be more serious, it's best to hire a professional.

   

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