When your Hoover washing machine runs into a fault of some kind, it will often display an error code to let you know there's a problem. One of these error codes is E16. This error code indicates that your washing machine isn't heating the water properly, and the code will usually show at the end of a cycle.
When this code appears, it means the heating element inside the appliance has failed and needs to be replaced. Fortunately, this is a repair you can carry out at home by yourself, which is why we're here to show you how to fix the E16 error code on a Hoover washing machine step-by-step.
If your Hoover washing machine is showing a different error code instead, don't worry. Our guide on Hoover and Candy washing machine error codes will show you how to get to the bottom of it.
What you will need
- Water pump pliers
- 7mm socket
- 10mm socket with a wrench
- Safety gloves (for protection against sharp edges)
- A towel to catch water spillages
- New heating element
Finding your model number
When purchasing a new heating element for your washing machine, you will first need to know your washer's model number. This number will help ensure you buy the correct heater for your particular make and model of washing machine. If you don't know what your appliance's model number is or how to find it, don't worry. Our quick guide on how to find a washing machine model number will get you in the know.
How to fix the E16 error code on a Hoover washing machine
Let's get stuck in! To learn how to fix Hoover washing machine error code E16, either watch our video tutorial or follow our written step-by-step guide below.
Safety first
Remember, always make sure your appliance has been switched off and unplugged from the mains before carrying out any work.
Step 1: Access the heating element
To replace the heating element, you'll first need to access it through the back of the washing machine. Using your 7mm socket, unscrew the six screws that hold the back panel in place.
With the screws removed, go ahead and pull the back panel off and away from the appliance.
Step 2: Remove the old heating element
You will now be able to see the heating element in the back of the washing machine, as indicated in the picture below.
To remove the old element, first use your 10mm nut runner to loosen the bolt all the way to the end of the thread without fully removing it.
Then remove all three electrical connections from the element.
Now it's time to remove the element. First, lay a towel down inside the machine beneath the element, as some water may spill here. Then, using your water pump pliers, grab the earth tab at the bottom of the element and pull the heating element out of the appliance.
Tip: If you find that the heating element is particularly stiff and difficult to remove, try putting some boiling water inside the washing machine's drum then lean your machine back against a stable surface. Leave the appliance for a few minutes with the hot water inside it; this will soften and loosen the seal. Then reposition your machine to the upright position, plug it back in and run a drain cycle to remove the hot water. With the water removed, unplug the machine once more and try removing the element again. It should now be loosened and easier to remove.
Step 3: Fit the new heating element
Now you can go ahead and fit the new heating element! First, slide the element into the cavity, ensuring it's pushed all the way in.
Then reattach the electrical connections to the tabs on the end of the element.
Finish securing the element in place by tightening the 10mm bolt with your 10mm socket.
Step 4: Refit the back panel
Finally you can go ahead and refit the back panel. First make sure you've removed the towel from inside the machine, then refit the panel with the six 7mm screws you removed earlier.
There you have it! How to fix error code E16 on a Hoover washing machine. Your appliance should now be heating up water properly again!
Now that your appliance is back in working order, it's important make sure it's well maintained to keep doing its job efficiently. Our article on how to clean your washing machine will help keep your appliance in top shape for longer, thus reducing the risk of faults and repairs.
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