Hoover error code E1

How to Identify Which Fault Is Causing E1

Because E1 covers three different fault types, the first diagnostic step is to watch the cycle run until it aborts and note precisely when and where in the programme E1 appears.

E1 During Filling – Fill Fault

If the machine aborts with E1 at the start of the cycle or when trying to fill for rinsing, the water is not reaching the required level within the allowed time. Common causes:

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  Check the supply tap is fully open. A tap that appears open but is partially seized, corroded, or cracked internally can severely restrict flow. Turn it fully and check whether the issue changes.
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  Check the fill hose for kinks or blockages. A kinked hose restricts flow. Also check the mesh filter inside the inlet valve connection for limescale or debris – turn off the tap, disconnect the hose, and inspect the filter screen.
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  Check water pressure is adequate. Low mains pressure can cause fill timeouts even when everything is correctly connected. See our full guide on washing machine fill faults.

E1 During the Wash – Heat Timeout

If the machine fills successfully, begins washing, then aborts with E1 approximately 15 to 20 minutes into the wash cycle, the heater is not bringing the water to the required temperature within the allowed time. This is a heating fault, not a fill or drain fault.

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  Check for a faulty or open circuit heating element. An element that has failed or has a broken connection will not heat the water at all. The machine waits the full heat timeout before aborting.
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  Check the element connections. A loose or corroded connection on the element terminals can prevent the element receiving power even if the element itself is functional.
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  Check the NTC thermistor. The NTC thermistor monitors water temperature. A failed thermistor can cause the PCB to read the temperature incorrectly, either aborting prematurely or continuing to heat indefinitely. See our guide on washing machine not heating water.

E1 During Draining – Drain Timeout or Pressure System Fault

If the machine aborts with E1 at the point where it should be pumping water out – whether before rinsing, during rinsing, or just before spin – the fault is in the drain system or the pressure system that detects whether the water has been removed.

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  Check and clean the pump filter. A blocked filter prevents the pump from draining effectively. Locate the filter at the front base of the machine, drain residual water, and remove any debris. See our guide on washing machine pump filters.
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  Listen for the pump running. If the pump can be heard running during the drain stage but water is not clearing, suspect a blockage between the pump and the drain outlet. If the pump is not running at all, suspect a jammed pump impeller or pump motor fault.
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  If water appears to drain but E1 still shows just before spin – check the pressure system. The machine uses a pressure switch and chamber to confirm all water has been removed before allowing spin. If the pressure chamber, the thin pressure hose connecting it, or the pressure switch itself is faulty, the “water gone” signal is never sent. The machine correctly drains the water but cannot confirm this, so it aborts. Check the pressure hose for blockages (a blocked chamber hose is a known Hoover fault on older models) and the pressure switch for continuity.

Related Guides

Washing Machine Won’t Fill With Water
Fill fault diagnosis – taps, hoses, inlet valves, and water pressure causes.


Washing Machine Not Heating Water
Heating fault diagnosis – element, NTC thermistor, connections, and PCB.


Washing Machine Won’t Drain
Drain fault diagnosis – pump, filter, blockages, and electrical causes.


Hoover Nextra Lights Flashing
Error codes on Hoover Nextra washing machines – a different model range from the New Wave.

Frequently Asked Questions