The centrifuge in my washing machine isn't working: repair tips

Semi-automatic washing machine with centrifugeIf you turn the switch and notice that the centrifuge does not turn on in your semi-automatic machine, do not despair!

 

 

 

Reasons why a centrifuge doesn't work

Eat several reasons that cause the problem:

  • Damage to the protective sensor.
  • Brake pads.
  • Timer malfunction.
  • Damage to the electrical winding.
  • Other causes of malfunctions.

Damage to the protective sensor

Sensor on the centrifuge door of a semi-automatic washing machineSome models, for example, Daewoo (Daewoo) or Saturn, there's a sensor on the door that covers the centrifuge drum. It's used to disable the starter. To access it, you'll need to remove the top panel of the washing machine. Underneath is a sensor with two contacts, which should be cleaned with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. Don't scratch the contacts with a knife or sand them. Then, test the sensor's operation. The contacts should close when the lid is closed.

Brake pads

What is the braking principle in semi-automatic machines?

The brake pads are installed under the centrifuge and thus slow it down when opening.

The pads are connected to the lid with a cable. When the lid is opened, the cable is pulled and

The pads grip the rotating part of the motor, thus stopping the centrifuge.

It is necessary to open the rear wall of the SMP and check how the cable is tensioned so that the brake pads do not touch the engine when the door is closed, since contact with the brake pads can prevent the electric motor from starting.

Timer malfunction

Semi-automatic washing machine timer on the panelIn most semi-automatic washing machines (SAM), the timer is located under the top panel of the machine. It can be repaired by cleaning the contacts.

There are many tips on how to remove the panel, since washing machines from different companies are designed differently.

Once you remove the top panel, you will notice a device that resembles a clock with gears.

The device of the timer of a semi-automatic washing machineThis device contains contacts that can burn out over time. This is caused by soot that prevents current from flowing.

You need to be very careful when disassembling the timer, as the cover of this mechanism also serves as a mounting point for the gears. After unscrewing all the screws, you need to remove it so that the gears don't fall out when you open it. If you're worried about opening the cover carefully, it's best to err on the side of caution and take a photo of the entire mechanism. After removing the cover, you'll notice the contacts. They should be cleaned with alcohol, just like the ones in the sensor.

Damage to the electrical winding

Very often, the burnout of one of the windings of an electric motor is the cause of its breakdown.

This can be checked using a tester, a measuring device. Here are three steps to do it.

  1. Wires on the electric motor of a semi-automatic washing machineFirst, we find the ends of the wires coming out of the electric motor. Typically, there are three wires: the first is the common wire, the second is the one that leads to the starting winding, and the third is the one that leads to the running winding. The common wire is usually marked with the letter "N" and is blue.
  2. Set the meter to the resistance test mode and measure the resistance between the common wire and one of the other two, for example, the red one. If the meter displays a resistance reading, that winding is perfectly fine.
  3. Checking the electric motor wiresWe do the same with the other pair, the common and, say, the white wires. Then we measure the resistance and note the readings. If there is no resistance, this means the winding is burnt out. Therefore, the reason why the centrifuge in your semi-automatic washing machine isn't working is a faulty electric motor.

In this case, there are two options: buy and install a new motor or send the old one for rewinding.

Other causes of malfunctions of the centrifuge in a semi-automatic machine

It's very difficult to list all the reasons why the spin system fails. Different machine models have their own nuances. However, if you can repair it yourself, you'll save a ton of money.

Let's take a lookThe most common causes of failure in the spin system.

  1. The structure of a semi-automatic washing machineThe motor hums loudly, but the spin cycle does not start. This means that the belt that connects the pulleys of the centrifuge and the motor has broken or come off.
  2. During long-term operation of the machine it is possible wear of the rubber diaphragm bushingA large gap between the parts will prevent the spin cycle from engaging. The bushing will need to be replaced for the machine to function.
  3. If you have checked the electric motor and are sure that it is working properly, then it is possible the cause is a faulty thermal relay, or in a step-down transformer. These parts cannot be repaired and must be replaced with new ones.
  4. It would also be a good idea to check, Are there any small objects wrapped around the electric motor shaft?They can fly out during the spin cycle and end up in the middle of the machine.
  5. Laundry unevenly distributed inside the centrifuge , can cause it to wobble and prevent it from starting.
  6. If the activator spin motors don't work, it would be a good idea to check fuse, which is located in the middle of the machine behind the rear panel. You can also check the electrical plug (contacts).

A semi-automatic washing machine is not a simple mechanism. Therefore, some types of malfunctions can only be fixed by master.

However, if you follow our advice carefully and do the necessary steps carefully and without haste, then you will be able to repair Your washing machine yourself, without outside help. This is especially true for repairing the centrifuge in a semi-automatic washing machine.


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