Cycle won't run
Hi a friend has a zanussi model no zwi71201wa and I can turn on, select program and start, the machine acts as if it's going to run but then stops. It flashes back to 0 then back to the cycle time. This happens on every cycle. Can you help? I do have a video of this too. Cheers Lee.
1 Answer
Hi Lee. If it lets you select a programme and appears to start, then immediately drops back and won’t continue, the fault is often with one of the basic “start conditions” not being satisfied, or the control is aborting due to a detected problem. On this Zanussi, I’d check the following first.
1. Check the door is definitely locking When you press Start, listen for the door lock click. If the lock is weak or not proving to the control board, the machine can behave as though it is starting then cancel. Try pushing the door firmly closed and starting again. Also inspect the door catch for damage.
2. Check the drain system If the machine thinks it cannot empty properly, it may refuse to proceed. Clean the pump filter, check the drain hose for kinks/blockages, and make sure the spigot under the sink isn’t blocked if it drains there.
3. Check water fill Make sure the tap is fully on, inlet hose isn’t kinked, and the inlet filter in the hose connection isn’t clogged. If it starts, then times out trying to fill, it can revert back.
4. Try a reset and a simple programme Switch off at the mains for 10 minutes, then try a short rinse or spin cycle with no laundry inside. That helps narrow down whether it is fill, drain, or lock related.
5. Look for stored fault indication If any lights flash in a pattern, note exactly which ones. Zanussi/Electrolux machines often store a fault code, but I wouldn’t guess it without the proper light pattern or service mode result.
Before inspecting anything internal, isolate the appliance from the mains. If the door lock, wiring, pressure system, or control board needs testing, it’s best handled by a qualified appliance engineer.
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Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
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By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional — do not attempt it yourself.
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Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts are full of sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.
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This is AI-generated guidance to help point you in the right direction, not guaranteed-correct instruction. It may be incomplete or wrong, so always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer for electrical, gas or water work.
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