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Does your Bosch washing machine electronic model show error code F26 on the display? The machine does not perform the main functions: there is no intake or discharge of water? In this case, error F 26 means a breakdown of the pressure switch – a water pressure (level) sensor. What to do and how to fix the situation, read below.
The principle of the sensor
Error code F26 on a Bosch washing machine indicates problems with the pressure switch.
This sensor is used to measure the amount of water in the tank. It is located at the top of the machine, as it works from the effects of air pressure. The more the tank is filled, the higher the pressure becomes.
The level sensor sends a signal to the control module that it is time to fill in water or the tank is already full. Depending on the number of programs on your Bosch washing machine, the pressure switch regulates the amount of water for each mode.
What does error F26 mean: signs of a pressure switch malfunction
Before troubleshooting and changing the sensor, pay attention to the signs of its failure:
- SM Bosch pours too much or too little water for washing.
- Water does not drain completely.
- The “Rinse” or “Spin” modes do not work.
- The heating element starts to work, because it seems to the machine that the tank is full.
- Error F26 is on.
Be careful! If the failure is not corrected in time, it can lead to the heating element burnout and a fire hazard.
Repair by own hands
To reset the F26 error, disconnect the Bosch SM from the mains for 10-20 minutes. Look at the board, does the fault code light up again? If it was not possible to remove error F26, and it is displayed again, a repair can solve the problem.
Checking and replacing the sensor
To get close to the pressure switch, do this:
- Turn off communications and voltage.
- Remove the top cover of the CMA.
- Unscrew the bolts holding the pressure switch.
- Remove the clamp and disconnect the hose.
- Before disconnecting the connectors, take a picture of their location so that you can install them correctly later.
- Disconnect the wires.
- Inspect and flush the pressure switch hose.
You have removed the device, now check it. Install a short tube and blow into it, creating pressure. A working pressure switch will click from one to three times.
An additional check can be performed with a multimeter. Set it to resistance measurement mode and attach the probes to the contacts. Blow into the tube, if the tester has fixed the closure of the contacts, then the device is working. You can install a new sensor in the reverse order.
The video will help you with the work:
Connectors and wiring
What does a wiring problem mean? The fact that the electronic module will not receive a signal from the pressure switch and vice versa. Therefore, washing will not start.
Inspect and tighten the connections going between the control unit and the pressure switch. If you find defective wires, replace them.
Control module
The module fails less often, but the probability of failure is still present. Due to sudden power surges or moisture ingress, the elements of the board deteriorate and burn out. It can be repaired if you solder new elements, clean the tracks.
How to replace the control unit:
- Disconnect the Bosch CM from the mains and remove the top cover.
- Remove the connectors that lead to the block.
- Release the latches on the module cover and remove it.
- Disconnect the remaining connectors.
- Loosen the screw on the back of the unit.
- Slide and pull out the module.
- The new device is installed in the same way.
Details on how to remove the control unit are shown in the video:
Now you can assemble the Bosch washing machine, run the program and check its operation. If the system no longer displays error code F 26 on the display, then you have managed to fix the problem in the Bosch typewriter.