How to repair a washing machine pressure switch?

The pressure switch is a washing machine part located in most models on the side wall, just below the top cover. Its appearance is similar to a washer. Replacing the element is not difficult, but not all technicians are able to perform high-quality repairs of the pressure switch. What are the most common malfunctions of the part, is there a chance to fix them at home without resorting to the services of specialists?

Typical problems

A special code signaling an error helps to detect pressure switch failures in washing machines equipped with a display. It appears on the control panel. There are also other signs indicating malfunctions. Characteristic "symptoms" allow you to suspect failures.

• Repeated washing cycle. A faulty mechanism designed to control the water level prevents the equipment from functioning correctly. In such cases, experts advise disconnecting the machine from the electrical network and replacing the pressure switch with a new one.
• Water intake failure when the appliance is switched on. The program often does not start due to the automatic dry wash mode or if the contact is stuck in the full position.
• The appearance of a burning smell with an empty drum. This is also a reason to check the serviceability of the pressure switch and the pump. The washing machine is able to automatically turn on the program and the operation of the heating element. But if there is no liquid, the heating device fuse is triggered.
• The remaining water in the drum after a full wash cycle. Often it is the result of a broken sensor that controls the water level. Sometimes the waste liquid is not completely drained from the machine, while fresh water is simultaneously supplied to the drum.

In addition to these signs, poor quality washing may also indicate problems. The laundry may remain dirty because the tank does not collect enough liquid, and the pressure switch setting is incorrect. To fix the sensor malfunction, just turn the special adjustment screw and tighten the spring. Let's take a closer look at how to do this correctly.

Checking and adjusting the sensor

Before you start assessing the performance of the pressure switch and start repairing it yourself, you should check whether the warranty period for the washing machine has expired. For most brands, it does not exceed 12 months. If the warranty is still valid, then it is better to avoid self-intervention and contact a specialized center. In other cases, you can repair the water level sensor yourself. To do this, you need to:

• Disconnect the washing machine from the power supply,
• Unscrew the two small screws on the back of the case that hold the top panel in place. Remove it,
• Remove the connector and release the screw,
• Remove the hanging sensor,
• Unscrew the clamp and remove the device using pliers.

After completing these steps, you can check the adjustment of the pressure switch and assess the correctness of its operation. To do this, take a piece of rubber tube and connect it to the sensor. The test method is simple: blow into the tube and observe whether you hear a clicking sound inside the device when the pressure changes. If there is no clicking, the pressure switch is faulty.

The water level sensor is also checked in another way, using hardware. To do this, take a multimeter. Then do the following:

• Prepare a device for measuring resistance,
• The probes are placed on the corresponding contacts of the pressure switch,
• Increase the pressure in the air tube until a certain relay contact is triggered.

If the contact is triggered, but the resistance value does not change, the sensor is faulty, a new one needs to be installed. Experts advise even if the listed testing methods indicate no breakdowns, it makes sense to conduct an additional inspection of the mechanisms. To do this, attach a tube to the pressure switch and assess its tightness.

Before you start setting up, you should disconnect the washing machine from the power supply. Then you need to remove the cover, disconnect the connector from the relay. The sensor is equipped with 3 adjustment screws. The one that is designed to control the primary force is in the center of the relay body in most models. The screw is usually made for a Phillips screwdriver. You should only start setting up the sensor when the tank is empty. This work is carried out in several stages, constantly performing intermediate checks of the water level:

• Turn the key - complete the assembly,
• Connect - conduct testing.

These actions are performed several times, with the screw in each case being turned no more than half a turn. In order to independently check, change or adjust the pressure switch, you must have at least basic theoretical knowledge. If you have no experience, it makes sense to contact a professional technician.