Error E70 in an Electrolux washing machine

What does error E70 indicate in an Electrolux washing machine? In 90% of cases, this code indicates a malfunction of the temperature sensor. In the remaining ten percent, the reason for the washing machine freezing will be a breakdown of the heating element or damage to the wiring of the heating element circuit. Let’s figure out whether it’s possible to fix the “home assistant” with your own hands, and where to start diagnosing the equipment.

Let's take out and test the temperature sensor

If you notice this fault code on the SMA Electrolux display, immediately turn off the power to the equipment. Error E70 indicates incorrect operation of the temperature sensor, less often the heating element itself. To perform diagnostics, you will have to get to the elements by disassembling the washing machine body.

The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• make sure that the machine is de-energized;
• close the tap that regulates the water supply to the machine;
• move the washer away from the wall to get to the back of the case;
• Unscrew the screws holding the back panel of the washing machine;
• remove the back wall of the case and move it to the side;
• remove the wiring from the sensor going to the external temperature controller (first take a photo of the connection diagram);
• loosen the screw fixing the heating element;
• remove the temperature sensor from the tubular heater.

To check the temperature sensor and heating element, you will need a multimeter.

The resistance produced by the thermistor is then measured. What to do next:

• switch the multimeter to ohmmeter mode;
• Place the tester probes against the contacts of the temperature sensor. At 20°C the thermistor should provide a resistance of 6000 ohms;
• lower the temperature sensor into warm water without removing the multimeter probes (make sure that the thermistor contacts do not get wet);
• Evaluate the readings on the tester screen - they should fall. So, at a water temperature of 50°C, the temperature sensor should output about 1350 Ohms.

If the values ​​​​on the multimeter display do not correspond to the standard, or do not change when the thermistor is immersed in hot water, then the temperature sensor is faulty. It cannot be repaired; the element will need to be replaced. A new thermostat is purchased for a specific Electrolux model.

Checking and replacing the heating element

What to do if during diagnostics it turns out that the temperature sensor is working? Then you will have to check the heating element. There are enough reasons for the heater to fail. This includes hard tap water, low-quality detergents, frequent use of high-temperature washing modes, and power surges.

On some front panels, the heating element is located at the bottom, in front. In such a situation, you will have to remove the cover and the front wall of the case. Most cars have automatic Electrolux heating element is located at the back, under the tank. For top-loading washers, the tubular heater is located on the side, so you will need to remove the right or left panel.

What to do to check the heating element:

• de-energize the SMA;
• close the shut-off valve;
• partially disassemble the SMA body to get to the heating element;
• take a photo of how the wires are connected to the tubular heater (this will help you avoid making mistakes during the reassembly of the SMA);
• disconnect the wiring from the heating element;
• unhook the temperature sensor chip from the heating element;
• using a 10mm socket, twist the central nut securing the heating element;
• push the bolt so that it “hides” inside;
• take the heating element and, swinging, pull it out of the “socket”.

Difficulties may arise with removing the heating element. The sealing rubber increases in volume and interferes with dismantling. Therefore, you can pour a little dishwashing detergent into the gap between the gasket and the heater. By sliding, it will be easier to get the element.

Diagnostics of the tubular heater is also performed with a multimeter. The tester is switched to resistance determination mode, after which its probes are applied to the contacts of the heating element. The readings will depend on the power of the heating element. For example, at 1.8-1.9 kW, the output resistance should be 25-30 Ohms.

Zero, one, or a very large number displayed on the multimeter display will indicate a malfunction of the heating element. The heating element cannot be repaired and will need to be replaced. New components are purchased for a specific Electrolux model. You can go to the store with a dismantled part - this will make it easier for the seller to choose an analogue.

When the readings on the multimeter screen are normal, be sure to check the heating element for breakdown. To do this, the tester is switched to dialing mode. One probe rests against the heater terminal, the other against the element body itself. If the measuring device starts to “squeak”, then the heating element is damaged and will need to be replaced.

Before installing a new heating element, clean the seat “nest” of scale, debris and dirt.

The new tubular heater is fixed in the housing with the previously removed nut. It is important to tighten it carefully, otherwise it is easy to deform the sealing gasket. Then all the wires and the temperature sensor chip are connected to the contacts of the heating element. Afterwards, the body of the washing machine is assembled and a test wash is started.

In the case of error E70 on SMA Electrolux, you can solve the problem yourself without calling a technician. The main thing is not to deviate from the instructions and follow safety rules. The cost of a multimeter is low - you can buy the device for $3-4. The tester will also be needed in the future to diagnose your automatic machine.

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