What is a water level sensor in a Samsung washing machine, what breakdowns are possible?
Each Samsung washing machine is equipped with a water level sensor. Its second name is pressure switch.
It evaluates whether there is water in the tank or not, after which it sends a signal to the controller, which decides which operation to apply next. Failure of the sensor leads to problems with the operation of the washing machine.
The article will talk about where the pressure switch is located, how to check the functionality of the water level sensor in a Samsung washing machine and fix possible problems.
Content
Where is the pressure switch located?
The pressure switch is a small round part. The sensor is made of plastic. It is connected to the tank via a tube, and to the controller via wires.
How to check?
It is not difficult to check the water level sensor yourself, the main thing is to gain access to the part. Sometimes it just needs to be cleaned, and sometimes it requires repair or replacement of a component.
How do you know if it's working properly?
To understand that the sensor is working correctly, you need to do the following:
- Unscrew the 2 bolts located on the back of the washing machine, after which you can easily remove the cover.
- Disconnect the pressure switch, which is located on the side wall of the washing machine. It is attached to it with bolts.Be sure to remove the connectors with wires and the clamp securing the hose and fitting.
- Dismantle the part.
To understand that the sensor is working, you first need to inspect it. There should be no blockages in the tube; if there are any, they are removed. Corrosion and dirt from the lamellas are cleaned.
Instructions for initial check:
- Place a hose on the fitting and blow into it. If the sensor is working properly, a click should be heard.
- There can be from 1 to 3 clicks. This depends on the model of the washing machine. If there is no sound, the part is broken.
- If you have an ohmmeter, you can check the functionality of the contacts. When closing and opening them, you need to pay attention to the readings of the device. Normally, they should change.
The initial self-test does not take much time and does not require special skills.
When is tuning required?
Adjustment is required after installing a new sensor, or if the water level in the drum does not correspond to the washing stage. There may be too much or too little liquid. The initial settings are made at the factory, during assembly of the washing machine.
When is repair or replacement necessary?
Understand that the water level sensor requires replacement or repair, possible based on the following criteria:
the machine continues washing or turns on the heating element, even if there is water in it;- the tank is overfilled with water or there is too little of it;
- during rinsing, water is periodically pumped out and re-entered into the tank;
- a burning smell appears and the fuse of the heating element trips;
- the machine does not start spinning;
- after spinning, things remain wet;
- After draining the water, some liquid remains in the tank.
If there are one or more signs of a problem, it makes sense to check the operation of the pressure switch.
If the machine has already been disassembled and the sensor has been removed, then the need to replace it is indicated by the absence of a click when blowing through the tube, as well as the lack of reaction of the multimeter when closing and opening the contacts.
The video will show you how to check the serviceability of the water level sensor in a washing machine:
How to setup?
Before you start setting up the sensor, you need to disconnect the washing machine from the network. The pressure switch has 3 adjusting screws. The main screw is located in the center. It is most convenient to adjust it using a Phillips screwdriver.
To do this, it is turned half a turn, after which the machine is assembled and put into operation. If the water level is not satisfactory, remove the cover again and turn the bolt half a turn again, after which testing is carried out again.
Intermediate visual control of the sensor operation is a prerequisite. Otherwise, the setup may result in machine failure. If there is no knowledge and experience in this process, then it is better to entrust the work to a professional.
The fact is that when starting different modes, the machine can use different amounts of water, for example, with the “gentle wash” program, the tank is often filled only to the middle.
At the factory, fine adjustments are made by a specialist, and the position of the regulators is fixed with paint or varnish. You should not change the position yourself, so as not to disrupt the operation of the washing machine.
How to replace?
If the sensor is faulty, it must be replaced.Repairing the part does not make sense, since it will not be possible to disassemble and reassemble the pressure switch housing. Any attempts to open it will lead to component malfunction.
Replacement sequence water level sensor:
- Remove the old pressure switch.
- Using the screws, install a new device in its place.
- Connect the fitting and the hose, tighten the clamp.
- Connect the wire connectors in the order in which they were connected previously.
- Replace the washing machine cover.
How to replace the water level sensor in a washing machine, video instructions:
Where and how much to buy a new part?
You can purchase a new water level control sensor at a specialized service center or store, or order it online. Sometimes the part is available from private craftsmenrepairing washing machines.
However, very often they sell used pressure switches that were removed from other devices. Such a sensor can work for several years or several days. There is no guarantee for it.
Before you make a purchase in a store, you need to make sure that the new sensor is exactly the same type and name as the previous one. It must match the make and model of your washing machine.
This parameter directly affects the price sensor and varies from 900 to 2000 rubles.
The newer and more expensive the washing machine, the higher the price of all components will be.
When buying a sensor, you need to get a receipt from the seller. If it turns out to be faulty, the retail outlet must replace it.
How much do the services of a master cost?
If you were unable to cope with replacing the pressure switch yourself, you need to call a specialist. You can find it through an ad on the Internet or in a newspaper. It is possible that someone you know used the services of such a specialist and was satisfied with his work.
Reputable workshops can provide free visit of a technician and diagnostics of the device, and pensioners and low-income citizens are often given discounts.
The cost of replacing the pressure switch is about 1,600 rubles. This procedure does not take more than an hour. Reputable organizations provide a guarantee for all work performed, which should not be less than 6 months.
Prices for the services of a master may vary depending on the locality. However, they should not be 2-3 times more expensive. If a specialist asks for too high a price, you should not trust him.
Private craftsmen can offer more favorable terms of cooperation. However, when calling such a repairman, you should not be alone with him. If he demands money for a service he did not perform, you need to threaten to call the police.
All about repairing Samsung washing machines - in this section.
Conclusion
The water level sensor in a Samsung machine is an important part, without which the normal functioning of household appliances is impossible.
If it fails, you can carry out simple diagnostics yourself and, if necessary, replace it. If you lack knowledge and skills, it is better to call a specialist at home and entrust him with all the work.
