Replacing the heating element in a washing machine

The heating element is the washing machine's heating element. It's located in the machine's drum, or more precisely, at the bottom. Household appliances are manufactured in various countries. There are quite a few companies that make them, and their designs can also vary. For example, some models have the heating element on the front of the machine, while others have it on the opposite side. Let's look at both options.

How to access the heating element in washing machines of different brands?

As mentioned above, the heating element can be accessed from the front on some machines and from the rear on others. To figure out where it's hidden, we need to examine the design of our machine. If, upon inspection of the rear of the machine, we notice that the removable part is large and takes up most or all of the wall space, it's likely that the heating element is located at the rear.

If our inspection revealed that the removable part at the back of the machine is small, it's unlikely that the heating element is behind it. It's most likely in the front. If we determine that it's in the back, we'll remove the back of the housing. And if we conclude that it's in the front, we'll remove the front. By the way, If you are unsure about the location of this part, it is best to first remove the cover from the back. It's much easier to put on and take off than the front one. So, to be completely sure, you can open it and examine the inside of the machine.

You can also use another method to determine the location. Typically, the heating element is located at the back of appliances from the following manufacturers: Zanussi, Candy, Electrolux, Ariston, Indesit, Ardo.

In Hansa washing machines, the part we need can be accessed through the base panel. On top-loading machines from this manufacturer, it may be located on the side. Incidentally, the heating element in other top-loading washing machines can also be accessed through the side of the machine.

How to remove a washing machine heating element?

To remove the heating element, we'll need to drain the water from the tank. To do this, we can either place the drain hose at floor level or remove the drain pump filter.

By the way, to clean up any leaked water, you can prepare a rag or place a small container underneath. Next, we'll need to disconnect the wires that connect to the heating element. Next, unscrew the nut located in the middle. We need to drive the remaining threaded stud, the one with the nut on it, inside. To do this, you can press it firmly or tap it gently with a hammer. Then, we need to pry the heating element with a screwdriver or knife and carefully pull it out of the tank.

Once we've removed the heating element, all that's left to do is check its functionality. If it's faulty, we simply replace it with a new one.

How to install a heating element?

• We take out our new (or working old) heating element and carefully insert it into the hole.
• It's important to check its position. It must be the same as the previous heating element. There should be no tilt or anything else. It should fit snugly.
• Having secured our part with our hand, we slowly tighten the nut.
• The heating element needs to be securely fastened, but if you overdo it, you can push it out of place.
• Then put the wires back in place.
• After this, we perform a test wash. You can run a program with a temperature of up to 60 degrees.

If everything is in order, then put the removed side panel back on and return the machine to its usual location. Enjoy your washing!

By the way, for those who prefer video, we've posted a video that shows the entire heating element replacement process. Watch it:

   

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