DIY washing machine repair disaster

The Internet is a great source of knowledge, that’s an indisputable fact. There’s also a wise saying about a little knowledge being a dangerous thing. I’ve just heard from an engineer about how he recently encountered someone who had tried to repair his own washing machine using knowledge from the Internet.

His washing machine was displaying an error code and he was fortunate(?) enough to find a description of the meaning online. As it was one of the faults that is relatively straightforward he decided to fix it himself. Having fixed the fault (a blocked pump) the washing machine unfortunately started displaying a new fault. The electronic display was erratic and jumbled.

At this stage he wisely decided to call in a professional who found that he had laid the washing machine down on its right side. As the washing machine had water inside at the time this had allowed water to run into the electronic control board and damaged it irreparably. The washing machine was scrapped.

Some DIY washing machine repairs can be successful, and can even be very straightforward. Some DIY repairs should never be attempted. However, even a straightforward repair can go disastrously wrong for the lack of some simple knowledge. The most important advice anyone can give regarding DIY repairs is to never, ever work on one while it is still plugged in. After that I would say that without proper electrical knowledge and experience you should think at least twice before attempting a repair other than cleaning out a filter etc. which shouldn’t normally involve laying the washing machine down.

In this case the only disaster was losing the washing machine. There are other cases where the family has lost the person attempting the repair. Even professional washing machine engineers occasionally get electrocuted and die. Usually because of a loss of concentration.

If you have a washing machine that isn’t draining the water, you should empty it first before laying it down because otherwise (as shown here) water can run inside and damage parts. The washing machine could even go with a bang when switched back on.

Washing machine repair safety issues

• Is it dangerous attempting to repair my own washing
  machine?
• What is the best way to help someone who is getting an electric shock?
• Is there anything I should never do?
• I’ve turned the washing machine off at the socket or its own on off switch – I can’t get a shock now can I?
• What do I need to watch out for after repairing a washing machine?
• What about other safety issues (non electrical)?

DIY washing machine DIY is repair tips

• What’s the best way to pull a washing machine out?
• Can I turn the washing machine upside down?
• Do I need any special tools or equipment?
• Is it possible to introduce new faults while repairing or installing a washing machine?

Full list of DIY washing machine repair help on Washerhelp

DIY Washing machine repair help (common faults)

Written By - Washerhelp on July 13th, 2007 with 1 comment
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