One of the common complaints many owners have about washing machines is the increase in wash time. A similar situation happens due to some kind of malfunction. The first question that arises is why the washing machine takes so long to wash and what’s wrong with it? But don’t panic, you first need to understand the situation.
Features of the problem
A washing machine is a rather complex unit. It works according to a clear scheme, which is established by the program. To understand the situation more clearly, it is necessary to determine all the specifics of how this technique works. The user selects the program he needs, then the washing machine executes the command and monitors the process. If any deviation from the set parameters occurs, the electronic unit determines the failure of any program. Washing time increases.
The washing period takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours and depends on the selected program. It may often mistakenly seem that the process has taken a long time.First of all, you need to make sure that you have selected a standard program that does not require additional soaking and rinsing. In order to be completely sure that the equipment is faulty, you need to run some program and observe. This tactic will allow you to understand at what stage the malfunction appeared.
Note! In addition to the fact that the machine washes for longer than the stated time, the transition to rinsing and spinning may not occur.
Why does the washing machine take a long time to wash?
Traditionally, there are 2 groups of problems that delay the operating time of the washing machine. The first includes problems that are directly related to the collection or drainage of water. The second group is breakdowns that relate to a malfunction or heating of the control module. In these situations, the device not only takes a long time to wash, but can also fail.
There are the following reasons why a machine takes a long time to wash:
- problem with water supply/drainage;
- incorrect connection of equipment to the water supply or drain;
- clogged drain filter;
- blockages in pipes;
- water level sensor failure;
- failures in the electronic control unit;
- malfunction of the heating element of the water heater.
Supply or drainage problems
In many models, the process of supplying and draining water is carried out automatically. This role is assigned to the intake/exhaust valves, which receive signals from the control unit. Failure to execute these commands will result in minor problems. A small amount of water enters the apparatus and, accordingly, it is not discharged sufficiently. The control unit regards this as a failure to execute the command. It sets up repeated steps, which results in longer processing times for the laundry.
The problem occurs when the reset is slow. The unit begins to work in slow mode if the water does not flow well or simply remains inside. Insufficient pressure in the water supply also increases the washing time. Because of this, the tank fills more slowly and the program takes longer to complete.
Incorrect connection to sewer and water supply
Slow filling of the tank also occurs due to incorrect connection of the machine. During such a trip, a certain amount of water voluntarily leaves the compartment through the valve. If there are systematic leaks, the washing machine will fill up again, which will increase the processing time of the laundry.
Clogged filter and hose
If the supply/drain hose is clogged, the tank filling and draining speed decreases. The same situation occurs when the filter and siphon are clogged. As a result, the machine waits for it to be completely filled, which affects the duration of the process.
Malfunction of heating element and thermostat
A malfunction of the heating element and thermostat often leads to the machine taking a long time to wash. If the heating element breaks down, the program increases the time. The control unit sends a signal to restart the heating mode, since the machine considers the process incomplete. As a result, the wash restarts.
If the thermostat breaks down, as in the previous case, a violation of the temperature regime occurs. As a result, the machine malfunctions. The thermostat is sending incorrect information to the control unit. The cycle takes longer, and you have to switch the unit to manual rinsing mode. If the temperature level is not displayed on the machine screen, you need to check the window. It should be warm.
Problems with the water level sensor
If the water level sensor breaks down, the washing process is delayed. With this type of malfunction, the program constantly makes mistakes and draws the wrong amount of water. The result of this situation: there is a set, a drain, then a set again. The equipment does not carry out the set program; in some cases, it skips the washing stage and immediately proceeds to rinsing.
Malfunctions in the machine program
Infrequent problems that cause the washing machine to run longer are program failures. The control unit converts and sends incorrect signals. Due to its malfunction, the washing machine delays the process and does not want to complete it. Also, the rinse and spin mode is not performed.
Drum rotation without stopping
If the drum spins without stopping or, on the contrary, stops, it may indicate two problems. The first is a breakdown of the control unit. The second reason is that the drum is overloaded. It's pretty easy to fix. It is enough just to unload the compartment a little. To do this, forcefully shut down the device, drain the water and take out unnecessary things. Then turn on the washing machine again.
What can you do
Why the equipment takes so long to erase has already been determined. Now you need to take measures for each specific situation that you can solve yourself:
- Determine the water pressure. If it accumulates slowly, then the entire wash cycle slows down. To determine this problem, it is enough to check the pressure from a cold tap. If it is weak, you should contact the Housing Office.
- Filter is clogged. To fix the problem, you need to remove it and carefully clean it with a toothbrush or rinse with water.
- There is a blockage in the hose - disconnect the hose and blow it out; if the contamination is severe, rinsing with water will be required.
- Check the drain hose. It must be undeformed, without bends, cracks, or kinks. You also need to check if a button or any small part is stuck in it. It is from this step that the diagnosis of a washing machine problem most often begins.
- If there is a connection error, check that the drain pipe is correctly connected to the sewer. Correct installation is carried out through a siphon, which is placed according to all the rules at a height of at least 50 cm. More detailed information is provided in the instructions for the equipment.
- Water temperature sensor malfunction. To check, you need to connect a flexible hose to the pressure switch. If there are any clicks, you can conclude that it is working properly. If there are no sounds, you will have to replace the water level sensor.
- Failure of the heating element. Basically, the cause of heating element breakdowns is scale. Eliminate it using special means or a solution of citric acid. If this method does not help, then we can talk about its malfunction and, accordingly, the need for replacement.
If you increase the washing time and the duration of the timer countdown, you can take the following actions:
- Reboot. You need to turn the device on/off, then restart the program.
- Restart the selected mode. To do this, the machine is stopped and rebooted, and a different mode is set.
- Switch to another mode. It is necessary to stop the washing machine and set only the rinse and spin mode.
- Conduct a self-check. To do this, check the water pressure, the condition of the filter and siphon, and the correct position of the hoses.
Note! If the above actions do not affect the situation, and the machine still takes a long time to erase, then you need to contact a specialist. This is where equipment breaks down.
Useful tips for housewives
In order for the washing to take place at the time set by the mode and the machine to work smoothly, you must:
- Periodically, the user should prevent the formation of scale and plaque. For this purpose, specialized tools for machines are used. Folk remedies based on citric acid and vinegar are suitable.
- Housewives also need to ensure that blockages do not form in different parts of the equipment.
- It is preferable to use quality products.
- Do not use powder for hand washing; use those marked “for machine wash”.
- Wash items with decorative elements (buttons, rhinestones, stones) and shoes only in special covers.
Among the frequently asked questions regarding long washing is whether it can be used in such a situation. If the device works and the electronics do not generate an error, then the situation is regarded as relatively acceptable. It is important to understand here that the equipment operates at an increased rate, in other words, for wear and tear. Machine parts are subject to heavy loads. The second important point is increased energy consumption. To extend the life of your washer, prevent major repairs and save money, it is important to recognize the problem in time and solve it.
The reasons why a machine takes a long time to wash can be external and internal. External ones can be easily eliminated on your own. Internal problems can be resolved by a service center specialist. It is important not to delay the situation so that the washing machine does not break down.
