Indesit washing machine owners are usually thrilled with the performance. They use state-of-the-art washing technology that gives some incredible results. However, there are times when things can happen. Suddenly you are faced with washing machines that aren’t working and all of the lights flashing.
The engineers have designed Indesit washing machines so there are error lights that help you troubleshoot. Each one indicates a specific issue to help you understand what the problem is. What does it mean when there are Indesit washing machines with all lights flashing? The likely cause is a blocked drain or worn brushes but it depends on a few factors.
Let’s take a closer look so you can find the one relevant to your situation to resolve the problem quickly.
Likely cause for all the flashing lights on washing machines
The most likely cause for all of the lights activated on Indesit washing machines is a possible blockage. Since there isn’t a specific error light that flashes to indicate a blockage in a filter, drain pipe, or other drainage problem, all of the lights will flash.
There are other reasons as well so it pays to take a look at some of the factors surrounding when the lights all came on at the same time.
Indesit washing machine not draining
When you see all of the lights activated then the first thing to check is the drum. If there is water in the drum, then this indicates that there is a blockage somewhere.
The water was not able to drain and the machine stopped working. A washing machine can’t spin when it is full of water. Since the water has no place to go the machine stopped before the spin function. Then, all of the lights came on.
The reason why the Indesit washing machine is not draining needs to be figured out to understand how to troubleshoot the blockage.
1 – Pump filter is full
If you have not been clearing the pump filter occasionally then this is the most likely culprit for a machine that is not draining. It is a simple operation to clear the filter and get the standing water machine to drain properly again.
- Shut off the power to the machine by disconnecting from the mains so it doesn’t turn on while you are attempting to clear it.
- Remove the panel cover on the bottom of the machine by pressing in the centre and then pushing in a downward motion.
- Have a pan ready to collect the water that will come out and remove the filter lid by turning it counterclockwise.
- Use a rag to thoroughly wipe down the filter to remove the sludge that has built up.
- Screw the lid back on and then reposition the cover and gently push it back into place.
At this point, you can turn the power back on to the machine and reset it. The Indesit washing machine should start doing a load and the lights should turn off. Keep an eye on the machine at this point.
When the cycle gets back to where the water should drain then this is the crucial moment. This is when the water drains and the cycle continues but if the problem wasn’t actually a full filter then the water will be blocked and the lights will flash once again, or the error codes will show on the display.
If the load cycle continues as normal then the problem has been solved. This should serve as a reminder to make sure that you are cleaning out the filter every 3 to 4 months.
2 – Pump filter is blocked
If you do clean the filter regularly then you probably assume that it isn’t the filter. The filter may actually be clean but something has gotten into it to block it. For instance, those colour catcher sheets that many people add to the wash can easily slip through and end up in the filter.
A blocked filter doesn’t allow the water to pass through and this activates the error which shuts the machine down. Go through the operation described above to check the filter for any obstructions that may have caused the problem.
3 – The drain is blocked
Another common cause of water not draining from the Indesit washing machine is the drain itself is blocked. There are a couple of typical causes for this blockage.
If your machine empties directly into the waste pipe under the sink then it is very likely that there is something there causing the blockage. Sinks are notorious for becoming blocked when things like hair are building up or the remnants after shaving are not draining properly.
Use a flexible snake for sinks that will grab the mass of hair and then you can pull it out. If it comes up clear then you may have a different blockage and could use a liquid unblocker. Be careful with chemical drain cleaners since they can damage pipes. Using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda will clear most clogs caused by a buildup of light sludge from things like shaving.
When your machine empties into a standpipe then it could be the position of the drain hose. Make sure that it is not laced further than 4 inches into the pipe. If it isn’t then the pipe itself will need to be snaked to remove any blockage there.
4 – There was a power outage
If the power were to go out during the fill phase of the cycle then the pump to drain the water would shut off. This essentially gets the machine stuck in this mode even when the power comes back on. If your lights are all flashing after a power outage then this is the most likely cause.
Reset the machine to do a test wash and see if it begins draining right away. In some cases, you may need to drain the water by removing the filter and catching the standing water with a pan or bucket. Then you can reset and start the cycle from the beginning.
5 – The wrong settings
The simplest error that occurs to turn all the lights on is that the settings are not correct. You may have the machine set for a synthetic wash programme for things like polyester, or nylon. In this case, check to see if the settings for “crease care” or “rinse hold” are activated as these will stop the machine before it spins to not damage certain fabrics.
Change the settings and set the machine to drain. If the water starts pumping out then you have solved the problem in the easiest of ways.
6 – Pump failure
The worst-case scenario here is that the pump has failed and that is why there is standing water in the drum. When you have gone through all the previous troubleshooting tips and nothing has worked then this is the most likely issue. A technician will need to be called to install a replacement pump. There are some brushes in the internal mechanism of the Indesit washing machine that could also be worn the technician will need to replace them.
What do the Indesit washing machine error codes mean?
In addition to the lights on to indicate specific problems, there are error codes that are not so clear to understand on newer Indesit washing machines. You can find the comprehensive list in your owner’s manual, but for those who would rather not have to dig it out of whatever drawer it is in here is a list:
F01 — Electronic circuit board fault – Indesit washing machine is not working
Troubleshoot: Disconnect the Indesit machine from the mains power supply for 2 minutes and then turn it back on and try to wash a load. If there are still error codes then the problem is internal.
F02 — Motor circuit fault
Troubleshoot: The issue is internal with the circuit board and a technician is needed for service.
F03 — Temperature sensing fault – No heating on wash or dry settings
Troubleshoot: A technician is required to replace the sensor.
F05 — Waste pipe blockage or pump issue – Door won’t open and water remains in the drum
Troubleshoot: Check for blockages in the main pipe or clean out the pump filter
F06 — Door lock fault
Troubleshoot: Check for obstructions in the door and clear them to remove the error code.
F07 — Electronic circuit board fault/heating circuit fault – Pump runs continuously while cycle is paused
Troubleshoot: A technician needs to be called.
F08 — Faulty heater – The programme pauses partway through a wash cycle.
Troubleshoot: A technician needs to be called.
F09 — Software fault – Unable to select a programme
Troubleshoot: Try shutting off the main power supply for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. You should be able to start a cycle from the beginning. If there are still error codes then it’s time to call a technician.
When to call a technician
There are a number of things that a regular person can troubleshoot, but there is always a point when you do need to call a technician. Generally, if you are getting any of the error codes or flashing light that indicates there is an internal problem then these are problems an expert needs to handle.
For instance, after a few years, the carbon brushes can wear down and not allow electricity to transfer to the armature so the machine won’t work. The drum stops spinning or it won’t end the cycle and an error code is shown. This can only be done by a technician and usually in a workshop.
There are also times when an emergency is at hand which doesn’t activate an error code and somebody will need to come right away. If you smell burning while the machine is working then this is cause for alarm. Shut off the mains and call an emergency technician right away. It could have ignited an electrical fire so watch for flames where you see smoke.
Final Word
Hopefully panic didn’t set in when you saw all the lights activated or error codes on your Indesit washing machine. There is usually a simple explanation that will be sorted out in short order. You may need to get your hands dirty but it all works out in the end.
As long as you follow the troubleshooting tips listed above when you see an error code on the control board then you can probably avoid calling the Indesit customer service line to schedule a technician’s visit.
FAQ
Why does my machine stop in mid cycle?
The reason is usually as simple as a hose being kinked and the water draining slowly which will signal to the machine that it needs to stop. Another common issue is that the cold water supply is off and the cycle stops when it needs to fill the drum with cold water.
Why is my pre-wash light flashing?
This light indicates that the drum is not able to fill with water. Check your incoming hoses to make sure they are not blocked or kinked. The incoming water could also be turned off and needs to be turned on.
Why is my wash light flashing?
This light is flashing because the wash dial that controls the cycles has been moved or is in the wrong position. Turn it back to the wash cycle and the machine will start back up again.
Why is my Indesit washing machine spin light flashing?
The most common cause of this light being activated is that the machine is unbalanced. If it is off balance the spin cycle could cause it to fall or move. Check to see if the machine is not solidly on the floor and make adjustments to get it back to being balanced. It could also be a wash load that is excessive.
Why is my end light flashing?
Luckily, this simply means that the cycle is done and you can remove your wash. There is no problem with your Indesit washing machine.
