If your Siemens washing machine has ever flashed the Error F18 code, you are aware of how annoying it can be. This error usually indicates an issue with your washer’s draining system. It’s one of those problems that can throw off your laundry schedule, but fortunately, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue on your own by knowing what it means.
Error F18 frequently indicates improper machine draining. This can be the result of a clogged filter, a blocked or kinked drain hose, or even problems with the pump itself. Occasionally, the problem could be as easy as cleaning the filter of any debris. In other cases, a little more work might be necessary, like when inspecting the hose or pump for obstructions.
This post will explain the meaning of the F18 error, how to identify the problem, and what you can do to restore the normal operation of your washing machine. Regardless of your level of experience doing repairs yourself or simply wanting to know what’s wrong with your appliance, we’ll offer some helpful guidance to get the issue fixed quickly.
Why the error appeared?
There isn’t a Siemens machine error code that can pinpoint the precise component of the system that is disrupting the well-organized mechanism. The indicated error will only aid in timely recording of the system’s "sos" signal and restriction of the scope of potential issues. There are not many of them in F18:
- Clogging of pipes, filter, pump impeller, hose or sewer.
- Pump failure.
- Bending, displacement of hoses or pipes.
- Control module malfunction.
The final explanation suggests that there is a breakdown in communication between the pressure switch and the associated triac. The first is a water level sensor, which has a long tube lowered into the tank to measure pressure and a small disk on top. It measures the machine’s water content and sends the data it gathers to the control board. The system will not issue the command to drain and will not permit the spin to begin if the information is not "reachable" because of a malfunctioning triac.
We advise you to perform diagnostics on your own to avoid speculating. The F18 error is most likely caused by a blockage that is easily removed on one’s own, avoiding the need for expert repair services. Initially, we advise you to conduct multiple tests and determine your home assistant’s "sore spot."
Let"s check for blockages in accessible places
You don’t need assistance from outside sources to check the drainage system if you know what to do when the F18 code appears. especially considering that no specialized training or experience is needed for the repair. The most important thing is to follow the instructions and behave consistently.
We start by looking for obstructions in the water supply’s component parts. We behave as follows:
- Disconnect the washing machine from the power supply.
- We find the drain hatch in the front in the lower right corner of the case.
- Open it with a flat screwdriver so that the two latches holding the door work.
- Prepare dirty rags and a container to collect water.
- Take the emergency hose located next to the filter, loosen the clamp and drain the water.
Crucial! In the event that the emergency hose is empty, there is a blockage in the drain pipe preventing water from draining from the tank; further instructions are provided at the end of this section.
- Unscrew the trash filter.
- Thoroughly clean it from scale and dirt.
- Inspect the impeller of the pump, and if there is hair wound around it, ensure that it rotates freely.
- Remove the clamps on the drain hose, remove it and clean it under a strong stream of water.
Occasionally, the accumulation of trash occurs in the common house sewer rather than the machine itself. Checking your guess is simple: just lower the drain hose’s end into the basin, bathtub, sink, or toilet while the spin mode is activated. Water that flows freely cleanses the equipment of any suspicion.
Let’s return to the drain pipe now. If there is a piece of debris in the hose that connects the pump and tank, the water will become blocked and won’t be able to exit the drum. You will need to access the pump snail through the machine’s bottom in order to verify the assumption.
Siemens units typically don’t have a bottom panel, so all you need to do is tilt the body back, reach the tube, disconnect, empty the collected liquid, and feel for any obstructions. Using a powerful water stream to rinse will aid in getting rid of the breakdown. If a tray is present, start by loosening the retaining bolts and making sure the leak sensor wire is carefully detached. In order to prevent flooding and short circuits, the latter is made to automatically stop the machine in an emergency if water enters the base compartment.
| Problem | Solution |
| Drain issue causing water not to empty | Check if the drain hose is blocked or kinked, and ensure the filter is clean |
| Washing cycle interrupted by an error code | Restart the machine after inspecting the pump for obstructions |
| Water not draining after a wash | Manually drain the water and inspect for any clogs in the system |
While Error F18 on your Siemens washing machine can be very annoying, knowing what it means can help you deal with it more effectively. Usually, this error indicates a drainage system issue. This code serves as a reminder to verify that the machine’s water drain is operating correctly.
The drain filter can frequently be cleaned and inspected to fix this problem. Coins and tiny clothing items can occasionally become stuck and obstruct the filter. Such obstructions can be avoided and smooth operation of your machine can be ensured with routine maintenance.
Checking for kinks or clogs in the drain hose may be necessary if cleaning the filter isn’t solving the issue. Verify that it is correctly connected and unobstructed. In more severe situations, there might be a problem with the pump itself that calls for expert maintenance.
Your washing machine’s lifespan and performance can be increased by taking care of it and taking quick care of these problems. Please don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified technician if you have any doubts or the issue continues after you have tried your best.
Error F18 on your Siemens washing machine indicates that there is a problem with the water drainage system. This error usually indicates that the pump isn’t working properly, which could be caused by a blockage in the filter, a kinked drain hose, or a problem with the pump itself. In order to fix Error F18 and ensure correct drainage, you must inspect these parts and get your washer operating normally again.
