Any washing machine’s water level sensor is an essential part. It makes sure the washer uses the appropriate amount of water for every load, protecting your clothing and saving energy and water. Your washing machine may overfill, not fill at all, or even stop working altogether if the sensor malfunctions.
When problems occur, knowing how the water level sensor operates will make diagnosis easier. Understanding a little bit about this component can be quite helpful, whether you’re dealing with a malfunctioning sensor or you’re just interested in how your machine works. In the unlikely event that the sensor fails, it is frequently possible to replace or fix it without expert assistance.
We’ll walk you through the process of diagnosing issues with the water level sensor in your washing machine in this article. We’ll also go over how to replace or fix it, so you can quickly get your washing machine operating like new again.
- What is a pressure switch
- Operating principle of the sensor
- Signs of a faulty pressure switch
- Where is the pressure switch located
- Replacing the pressure switch
- How to check the press to yourself
- Video on the topic
- How to clean the pressure switch?(water level sensor)
- Pressostat, water level sensor in the tank.
What is a pressure switch
When attempting to answer the question, "What is a water level sensor?" one must first realize that every procedure connected to the water supply to the washing machine has to be tightly controlled by a specific program. The pressure switches in washing machines from LG, Samsung, Electrolux, Candy, Ariston, and other brands operate in the same way, although there might be variations in terms of appearance, design, and features. This device resembles a tiny plastic component, usually spherical in shape, to which electrical wiring and a tube from the washing tank’s reservoir are connected.
Operating principle of the sensor
The diaphragm, a special membrane, is subjected to pressure, and this action drives the washing machine water level relay. When water builds up in the washing machine’s tank, it fills the compression chamber and is pumped into the sensor body through a special tube at a pressure that corresponds to the level of the collected water.
Typically, the compression chamber is integrated directly into the drain pipe. The pipe is connected to the tank and the drain pump snail using special clamps. There are chambers soldered straight into the tank itself. Natural events cause these chambers to eventually fill with liquid and dirt!
The contacts close and open in response to pressure applied to the membrane, informing the control module of the incoming water. Pressure switches come in two varieties: pneumatic (mechanical) and electronic (with an oscillating circuit); in this instance, the mechanical principle will be explained. They are further separated into dual and single chambers.
Pressure sensors with two chambers are specifically made for washing machines that hold both heavy and light loads. One membrane is activated and the least amount of water is supplied when there is a small load. When there is a significant load in the drum, the control processor commands the supply of the most water by activating the second membrane and closing the contacts.
The membrane that is typically installed inside the sensor is composed of rubber or elastic polymer and is intended to be turned on and off multiple times. The pressure switch operates by combining a direct electrical impulse to the washing machine’s control processor with the sequential influence of air pressure on the mechanical part, which is located above the electrical contacts.
By regulating the amount of water used, the water level sensor in a washing machine is an essential part that guarantees your laundry is cleaned effectively. Failure of this sensor may result in issues such as the drum being overfilled or underfilled, which could harm clothing and waste water. These problems are frequently resolved by replacing or fixing the sensor, and knowing how it operates will help you troubleshoot issues and determine when to seek professional assistance or try a do-it-yourself solution.
Signs of a faulty pressure switch
The water level sensor could malfunction, just like any other part of the washing machine, which could cause issues with the machine’s overall performance. The signs listed below represent this:
- the washing process starts without water;
- water is supplied to the tank in too large or too small quantities;
- after washing is completed, water is not removed from the tank;
- the program for spinning the laundry does not work;
- there is a periodic pumping out of dirty water and supply of clean water in the rinse mode, which is not typical for normal operation;
- the heating element TEN turns on without water;
- malfunctions in the operation of the washing machine in all washing programs.
Smoke and a burning smell may emerge if the TEN is turned on without any water in the tank. Such on/off switching typically results in the heating element being replaced. Because more water frequently accumulates in the tank than is necessary, a malfunctioning sensor may also cause an electric motor to constantly overload and fail.
Where is the pressure switch located
The majority of manufacturers’ washing machines have the sensor mounted on a bracket in the upper portion of the housing on the side wall; however, depending on the particular model, you can locate this device by simply taking off the top cover or side panel. Rarely do vertical machine types have a pressure switch at the bottom of the apparatus.
The small diameter tube of the sensor, which is usually made of rubber or polyvinyl chloride, makes it easy to identify.
Replacing the pressure switch
Replacing the water level switch, should it turn out to be defective, usually presents no special challenges. Therefore, you don’t need to hire experts to replace this device; you can do it yourself. Inappropriate and pointless, repairing the device itself would compromise its integrity because the housing cannot be separated, making any attempt to access the internal components unwise. Certain varieties of water pressure sensors may need to be opened, but doing so takes some experience and skill.
Disconnecting the vacuum tube and electrical contacts is the first step in replacing the pressure switch in a washing machine. It is necessary to remove the sensor by loosening or unscrewing the fasteners. The device is installed at the location in the opposite order as it is disassembled. Even though most sensors have a similar appearance, it’s important to remember that this particular component is designed for a particular washing machine model and brand.
When doing any type of work, it’s critical to adhere to security protocols. The washing machine’s fork must be unplugged from the power source before operating.
How to check the press to yourself
You can perform a performance check on the washing machine’s water level sensor at home. It must be disassembled in order to do this. Check the vacuum tube’s and the pressure relay’s pressure carefully for any signs of mechanical damage (cracks, chips, scuffs). Check the supply nipple and the tube carefully for obstructions, and clean them with a soft wire or plastic stick if necessary.
By using a tiny hose with the same diameter as the standard one to force air into the pressure switch’s housing, you can evaluate how well it functions. Attach the hose to the inlet fitting and gently blow into it multiple times to accomplish this. Inside the housing, distinctive clicks should be audible in relation to the pressure force. The number of water levels that a specific washing machine model offers determines how many clicks it will require. Their absence suggests a problem.
Using a multimeter to measure the water level is the second method of inspecting the sensor. With this technique, you can almost be positive that the pressure switch isn’t working properly. You must measure the resistance after attaching the device to the pressure switch. You can safely discard the defective element on the scrap heap if the resistance remains unchanged after blowing air into the device housing.
It is vital to closely monitor the washing unit’s operation and take appropriate action if even the smallest malfunction is noticed in order to prevent unfavorable outcomes for the entire machine. You can prolong the life of the entire washing machine by replacing the relatively inexpensive pressure switch beforehand.
| Description | Replacement & Repair |
| The water level sensor ensures the washing machine fills with the right amount of water. | To replace, unplug the machine, locate the sensor, disconnect it, and install a new one. For repair, check for blockages or loose connections. |
| It"s a key part of the washing machine"s operation, preventing overflows or underfilling. | If damaged, it may need professional repair or replacement to restore proper function. |
The water level sensor is essential to your washing machine’s correct operation. By making sure that the proper amount of water is used for each cycle, it helps to maintain efficiency and guard against possible damage to both the machine and your clothes. Knowing how it works and how to spot a malfunctioning sensor can help you avoid needless worry and expensive repairs.
The water level sensor could be the problem if your washing machine is overfilling or not filling with water correctly. Fortunately, you can replace or repair the sensor yourself if you have the necessary tools and a little knowledge. To prevent mishaps, always remember to unplug the device from the power source before starting any repairs.
Your washing machine can last longer if you do routine maintenance and take quick action when something goes wrong. By monitoring parts like the water level sensor, you can make sure that your appliance keeps working properly and gives you hassle-free access to clean clothes.
