If your Hotpoint or Indesit washing machine lights are flashing with an F11 error code or on the digital display, it is generally associated with an emptying or draining problem. If your washer is not draining properly the most likely cause is debris stuck in the filter.
We’ve created this how-to article to equip you with all the information you need to solve this problem, without the expensive call out charge.
This video shows an example on how to remove or replace the part on a typical machine, some models may be different but the procedure should be similar.
What You Will Need:
Step 1 - Safety Advice
Safety First! Please make sure that you have switched off or disconnected the appliance from the mains before beginning any repair.
Step 2 - Inspect the Filter And Pump Impeller
Before taking out the filter empty the washing machine drain hose into a small bucket, this will prevent water from coming out when you remove the filter. To gain access to the filter unclip the kickplate at the bottom of the washing machine.
If your filter doesn’t turn then it means a bra wire or hair clip is stopping the filter from releasing open. If that’s the case you’ll have to access the pump from behind the filter. In this model luckily the filter is okay so we can twist it open. It’s worth taking a long headed screwdriver and spinning the pump impeller. A working impeller should move freely but be able to stop at certain positions.
Step 3 - Check the Sump Hose
If your washing machine is draining slowly it could be due to the hoses or pipes being blocked by an unwanted object. To access the sump carefully put the machine onto its side. Inspect the sump hose by pressing it with your hands to feel for blockages such as socks or baby clothes. On this model the sump hose has a ball on top, but your model may not.
If you do find a blockage it’s easy to remove, just take off the three clips holding the sump in place and remove the impediment.
Step 4 - Check the Drain Pump
If the sump is in good condition, then turn your attention to the drain pump located behind the filter you already checked. Remove the four screws at the front of the filter housing and pump should come out.
Check the resistance of the drain pump using a multimeter. Make sure to set your multimeter to the second lowest setting before testing. You’re looking for a typical reading of 220 ohms. This particular pump is reading correct so will not need replacing. If however, your drain pump measures significantly over 220 ohms or doesn’t start then it will need changing.
To replace the drain pump grab a pair of pump pliers.
eSpares Top Tip: to remove the hoses leading into the drain pump ease the clips up the hose, that way it’ll be much easier to replace later on.
Now is a good time to double check the hoses for any blockages. You can then fit your brand new drain pump and secure the hoses and clips back on.
You’ve now solved the F11 error code on your Indesit washing machine all by yourself, so you should be feeling very proud now. We would recommend putting your appliance through a test cycle to make sure everything is working correctly.
If you need any other spares for your washing machine, eSpares has a huge range of products to get your appliance back into working order.
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