Where is the load sensor located in the washing machine?

The degree of loading of the drum with linen and water in an automatic washing machine is controlled by a special relay (pressostat, sensor). A small device sends data to the control module, which uses an algorithm to determine further operations. Repairing or replacing it if it breaks is not difficult if you know where the device is located.

Sensor location

The load sensor is located in the washing machine body. A small device with a round or rectangular shape can be recognized by the tube connecting it to the tank. When water is poured into the machine, the pressure in the tube increases. When it is equalized with the amount of liquid in the tank, the contacts in the relay switch. The control module, having detected this action, stops drawing water.

If the machine begins to work incorrectly - draining water, skipping the wash cycle or not pouring it into the drum at all, etc., then this is probably due to the water loading relay. Some models of washing machines display a problem code on the display. For example, a Daewoo washing machine informs about problems with the pressure switch by displaying the message “E9”.

The relay may fail if there is a blockage in the tube. You can fix the problem yourself. If the cause of the load sensor failure is electrical (oxidation of contacts) or mechanical (damage or wear of the membrane), then it must be removed. In the same Daewoo washing machine, the mentioned “E9” can be removed from the display only by removing the pressure switch.

Before dismantling any element of the washing machine, you must completely turn it off.

• close the external water valve (if any);
• turn off the power to the machine (unplug the cord from the outlet);
• Unscrew the two rear screws, remove the top cover and inspect the internal structure of the machine.

Depending on the washing machine model, the load sensor is located in one of the following places:

• washing machine manufacturers Daewoo, Candy, LG, Samsung, Indesit place a pressure switch on the right side of the case, closer to the front;
• in machines produced by Whirlpool, Ardo, the loading sensor is also located on the right side of the case, but closer to the back wall;
• The machine manufacturer Bosch places this relay, which is large in size, in the center of the right side.

In some models it is located at a lower height and is hidden behind the wires. If you have difficulty finding the sensor, focus on the tube leading from the tank. In older top-loading washing machines, the pressure switch may be located in the bottom tray. Therefore, if you still have the instructions, take a look at them. Today such design solutions are not used.

How to remove this sensor?

Once you have found the loading sensor, remove it as follows:

• remove the wires from the pressure switch contacts;
• disconnect the hose-tube;
• tighten the fastening screw or, if the sensor is mounted on latches, turn it clockwise.

Inspect the relay and tube - if a defect is visible that cannot be repaired, then purchase a new one, taking the old device with you to the store as a sample. You can install a new sensor in the reverse order of dismantling.

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