Electrolux washing machines have rightfully won the hearts of housewives. The machines of this company are reliable and durable. True, everything is never completely perfect, and owners of washing machines from this company are faced with problems. Modern machines, in the event of a malfunction, prompt the owner about the causes of the problem using a code. From it you can understand what is wrong with the assistant. Error E20 is quite common in the Electrolux washing machine. Let's take a closer look at what this code indicates, the reasons, the possibility of self-repair, etc.
Decoding the code
Manufacturers of washing machines have added the ability to determine, using a fault code, which specific unit has failed. But not in all cases. Each code has its own decoding. This error appears on the display of the washing machine. It can also be accompanied by additional sound (2 beeps) and light signals (2 blinks). Depending on the model.
The first digit in the code (in our case 2) indicates a specific malfunction, and the second (in our case 0) indicates a breakdown of a specific unit. Error code E20 means problems with the drain. There is no need to worry, because the cause may not necessarily be a breakdown, for example, the drain hose is twisted or pinched, the filter is clogged, etc.In many cases, you can fix the problem without calling a technician.
The code system is a very convenient feature. But, unfortunately, it cannot always accurately indicate a specific part that has become unusable. This malfunction applies to just such a case. Therefore, you will have to look for the reason yourself.
Reasons for the malfunction
This prompt indicates that it is difficult or impossible for the washing machine to drain water for the following possible reasons:
- Scale in the main line system. Scale appears due to hard water, as well as due to the use of poor quality detergents. Over time, this can lead to complete congestion.
- Despite the considerable diameter of the pipe, a garbage plug (clump of hair, wool, sock, etc.) can form in it.
- The hose becomes clogged much more often than the pipe, since its diameter is much smaller. A blockage can be caused by hair, a piece of clothing, a bag, etc. Often a blockage forms where the hose connects to the sewer pipe.
- An equally common cause of poor drainage is the sewer system itself. If it is clogged, then water will not flow out of the washing machine, and accordingly, an error will appear.
- Pump clogged or broken. The cause may be a clogged filter or a jammed drain pump impeller. This problem can be caused by matches, sticks and other debris getting into the system. Also, the cause of pump failure can be scale build-up.
- Water level sensor malfunction. It is responsible for transmitting information to the control unit about filling the tank with water or emptying it. In the event of a malfunction, error E20 is displayed.The sensor can become unusable: poor electrical contact, clogged hose between the sensor and the pump, oxidation of the contacts.
- Electronic module. In other words, this is the head of the washing machine. It contains washing programs, parameters, etc. The module may break down due to unstable electrical voltage or moisture ingress.
Malfunctions that you can fix yourself
The washing machine should be diagnosed by a technician, but in some cases this error can be fixed on your own. Most often, error E20 occurs precisely because of blockages or scale formation. In the first and second cases, you can eliminate the cause yourself. The main thing is to find where exactly the problem occurred. Also, a malfunction may occur as a result of clamping or squeezing of the drain hose.
Malfunctions requiring repair
But the problem may be more serious. These are breakdowns, as described above. Most often the pressure switch becomes unusable. The electronic module rarely breaks down. Here you can’t do without a technician who will accurately identify the problem and repair the failed unit or replace it.
DIY troubleshooting
We will identify the problem area in step-by-step steps. The first step is to unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply.
We disconnect the hose from the sewer pipe and begin to drain the water from the washing machine. If water flows out of the hose quickly, it means the drain is clogged and the problem is not in the machine. Poor water supply from the hose or its complete absence indicates that a debris plug has formed in the hose, or it is squashed somewhere.
Having made sure that they are in good condition, we move on to checking the filter and pump.We unscrew the filter, inspect it and rinse it under the tap. You can remove the pump as follows: unscrew the back wall of the washer, remove the wires from the pump, unscrew the mount that holds the pump, and disconnect the line system.
It is also advisable to check the pipe and rinse it under the tap. Use a cable to clean the hose.
Most often, the pump becomes clogged with clumps of hair, wool and other accidentally caught objects. To check this, you need to remove the cover and check the impeller. If clogged, clean and wipe the pump.
In addition, the pump may be faulty. You can check this using a multimeter. In a working pump, the resistance should be 200 Ohms. If the indicators are different, you will have to replace it.
Having made sure that the pump is working properly, we proceed to checking the wiring from the electronic board to the water level sensor. Often this is where the problem lies.
If all of the above does not work, then most likely the problem is in the electronic module. In this case, it will be difficult to repair it yourself without the necessary knowledge and experience. Even experienced craftsmen do not always take on this task. That's why many people simply change them.
Although the price is quite high. But the module fails very rarely, so don’t be alarmed.
Preventive measures for blockages
To avoid this problem, it is recommended:
- use soft water to avoid scale formation;
- use washing powder or liquid of good quality;
- periodically descale;
- carefully inspect things when placing them in the drum of the machine to avoid unnecessary objects getting in;
- install the machine in a dry, ventilated area to avoid moisture;
- periodically check and maintain the drainage system, pump, and filter in a clean condition;
- At the end of washing, it is advisable to disconnect the machine from the network to avoid a power outage, which can lead to breakdown.
If the necessary requirements are met, the washing machine will delight you with high-quality washing for a long time.
Conclusion
As you can see, this error does not pose a serious problem. In most cases, you can eliminate the cause yourself, and if you operate the machine according to the rules and preventive measures, you can completely avoid such troubles. The main reason is the formation of a blockage or scale, which can be eliminated without any difficulties without contacting a specialist.
Less commonly, the cause is technical problems with the water level sensor, pump or control module. Therefore, if error E20 appears, you should not worry.