One of the most common faults with a Bosch washing machine, although it is very rare, is that once the washing program has started, water starts to fill the tank, but then the machine stops and the program does not continue. This is a clear sign of a fault in one of the washing machine’s components.
Faulty heating element
The washing cycle of any washing machine consists of various stages. The heating element plays one of the most important roles throughout the program. It is responsible for heating the water to a pre-set level. A quality wash in cold water is unlikely to be achieved, therefore the efficiency of the heating element is an important consideration.
The heating element in a washing machine can fail for a number of reasons:
– A layer of limescale has caused the heater to overheat and burn out;
– A voltage drop in the mains supply or a short circuit;
– Entry of a foreign object into the tank causing mechanical damage;
– Natural wear and tear.
It is worth paying attention to the fact that in Bosch washing machines, the heating element is not at the back, but behind the front panel. This does not simplify the replacement procedure, but rather adds complexity.
To reach the damaged heating element and replace it, you will need to remove the front panel. But to do this you must first remove the top panel (countertop), then remove the powder cuvette, unscrew the fasteners behind it and remove the control panel from the latches, disconnect it from the contacts and set it aside. Use a screwdriver to pry off the bottom panel and also remove it. Next release the front panel from the cuff. To do this remove the fixing ring by prying it in the spring area – the cuff is inserted into the drum. Unscrew the control unit from the fasteners and disconnect the contacts.
Lastly, unscrew the screws that hold the front panel. The heating element can be seen at the bottom at the base of the tank. To remove it, disconnect all the contacts, unscrew the fastening nut in the middle, push it slightly forward and gently rock it out. Replace the old heater with a new one – this will solve the problem.
Control board or internal wiring faulty
A faulty control board in Bosch washing machines rarely results in this type of problem. But this fault should not be entirely ruled out, because it is the board that controls the switching of the washing machine to the various stages in the washing process. Especially do not exclude this option, if checking all the other parts of the washing machine does not reveal any faults.
Before carrying out a diagnosis of the washing machine control board itself, its internal wiring should be carefully inspected for any external damage, oxidation, or burnt areas. If these wires are found, they should be stripped or replaced completely, this may well be the solution to the unpleasant problem.
If the wires turn out to be intact and in good condition, the control board should be diagnosed. Such measures should definitely be entrusted to a specialist, who will unmistakably determine the extent of the control board fault and the nature of repairs that will be required.
The diagnosis of the control board is carried out initially visually, then by means of special instruments. In some cases, it may be necessary to re-solder individual elements or replace the faulty control board completely. If a software failure is detected, the board is reflashed.
Drum blocked by a foreign object
It is not uncommon for foreign objects that we forget in our trouser pockets, jackets, or shirts to get into the tank. Sometimes a brassiere bone can get into the tank – it’s quite common. So it’s not for nothing that we recommend checking all pockets thoroughly before putting laundry into the drum, and items like bras should be washed in a special washing bag.
In particularly unpleasant cases, a foreign object which has entered the drum may become lodged between the inner wall of the drum and the outer wall of the drum, thus stopping the drum from spinning. If the drum cannot rotate, when the washing machine is switched on and the program starts, water will be drawn into the tank, but further washing steps will not begin.
You can check this possibility yourself. You must open the door of the washing machine and try to turn the drum by hand. If this is done with force, a clang or rattle is heard, then the foreign body must be removed, otherwise, it could cause mechanical damage to the washer-dryer.
The object is most likely to be reached via the opening for the heating element. But as in Bosch washing machines, it is located behind the front panel, this is not the easiest thing to do. Therefore, you can initially try to reach the ‘intruder’ via the drain connection. The way to reach it is through the bottom of the washing machine.
If you still did not manage to recognize the cause of this breakdown by all the points provided above, or if you do not want to waste time guessing, North Country Appliance Repair Service is always happy to help you and provide a professional diagnosis and repair of your washer in a timely manner.
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