Checking the washing machine programmer

Some washing machines have mechanical rather than electronic controls. Such machines have a programmer installed - a device consisting of a timer, a control board and numerous contacts. Such a mechanism is reliable, but complicated: it is impossible to determine the cause of the breakdown without dismantling and diagnostics. We suggest you figure out what’s inside the command device and how to check the washing machine programmer. A detailed overview of the device with step-by-step instructions is below.

Basic elements of the command apparatus

On mechanical washing machines, the programmer is a key component of the control unit. There are many parts inside, each of which can become dirty or break over time. To repair the command device, you will have to check all the structural elements, and if necessary, patch them up or replace them.

Before you start checking and repairing the programmer, you need to study its internal structure. So, the standard command apparatus consists of:

• synchromotor;
• gearbox;
• contacts;
• motor;
• cogs and gears;
• cams (grooves, recesses and projections).

Control devices on washing equipment are hybrid and electronic.

The operating principle of the programmer also depends on its type. Thus, hybrid devices are more reliable and easier to operate, but have limited functionality. Electronic command devices, on the contrary, are more convenient in everyday life due to fine-tuning and the presence of many additional options. But electronics often break down, sensitively reacting to power surges.

How does a breakdown of the command apparatus manifest itself?

It is almost impossible to miss a programmer failure: the malfunction is manifested by a number of “telling” signs. As a rule, the machine freezes, not responding to user commands, or does not turn on at all. In the second case, you should make sure that there are no problems with the power cord and socket. If everything is clean with external electrical communications, it means that the washer’s control device is faulty.

The following “symptoms” also indicate problems with the command apparatus:

• the running program freezes;
• the set cycle time differs from the value set by the mode;
• The LEDs on the dashboard blink randomly.

The programmer often breaks down due to careless operation and sudden changes in voltage in the network.

Despite the reliable design, the command device can fail even after 10 years. According to statistics from service centers, more often the device breaks down due to careless handling of the machine. It is enough to accidentally move the selector knob while the washing is on for the board to get knocked down and “fly”. The programmer also generates an error after sudden power surges. The third possible cause of machine failure is moisture or dirt getting inside the command device. Factory defects in components cannot be ruled out.

Disassembly and inspection of parts

To perform a comprehensive check of the programmer, it must first be properly dismantled and disassembled. Difficulties often arise with the latter, since many command devices have non-standard instructions - there are dozens of types of devices. But we can highlight the general principle and sequence of disassembling the part.

Let's look at the procedure for disassembling and repairing the programmer from an Ariston washing machine. The algorithm is as follows:

• inspect the programmer and find the latches on the sides that secure the plastic cover;
• pry the latches with a flat screwdriver and move them;
• slowly remove the top cover from the case;
• assemble the springs located under the housing;

Under the programmer cover there are several compressed springs, which can fly out when the case is opened - do not lose them!

• find the control board, carefully remove it and put it aside;
• unhook the central gear and inspect the remaining gears for dirt (clogged debris must be removed);
• carefully inspect the board (burnt elements and traces are soldered again);
• use a multimeter to measure the resistance on the contacts (if deviations from the norm are recorded, it means that the programmer is faulty and will have to be completely replaced);
• remove all gears;
• remove the motor core;
• check each element for integrity and serviceability;
• disassemble and test the engine (be sure to inspect the winding on the motor; if it is burnt, wind a new one onto the rod);
• treat contacts with alcohol;
• Assemble the command apparatus following the described instructions in reverse order.

But disassembling and repairing the command apparatus is not always so easy. Thus, it is strongly not recommended to check electromechanics at home using washing equipment from Germany, for example, Miele or Siemens. The point is a complex device, more precisely, the presence of several pairs of compressed plates under the body. When the “box” is opened, the flaps fly apart, irreversibly damaging the plastic holders holding them in place. As a result, it is extremely difficult to put the structure back together - the fasteners need to be restored. It’s better not to take risks and entrust the diagnostics of German programmers to service professionals.

It is not recommended to check and repair washing machine programmers from Miele, Gorenie or Siemens brands yourself - it is cheaper and easier to contact a service center.

Home repairs are not suitable for Gorenie electromechanical automatic machines. Programmers from this manufacturer have soldered control boards installed. When testing such modules, it is necessary to desolder and solder many elements and tracks. The difficulty is that you should not work with a standard “thick” soldering iron, but with a tool with a special thin tip. By the way, not all professional masters have this skill. It is better not to waste time and effort in vain, immediately abandon disassembling the command apparatus and simply replace it with a new one.

It is worth understanding that repairing the command apparatus yourself is a risky business. Some devices have a simple design and can be easily disassembled and assembled at home. Other programmers are so complex that one careless movement will lead to irreparable damage. It is better not to experiment with the latest devices, but to immediately contact the service center.

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