Hoover Washing Machine VT814D21-80 Problems

If you own a Hoover washing machine and it’s displaying the dreaded E08 error code, it’s time to address a motor-related issue. The E08 error is a common problem reported by Hoover washing machine owners, and it’s essential to diagnose and fix it promptly. In this article, we will explore the E08 error and potential solutions based on discussions in the Hoover owner community.

Assessing the Motor

One user shared their experience with the E08 error, indicating a motor problem. They decided to investigate further and took out the motor for a closer look. Here are the steps and observations they made:

Carbon Brushes: They checked the carbon brushes first, which had around 4 cm of material left on them, indicating they were relatively new and not the source of the problem.

Commutator Cleaning: In an attempt to resolve the issue, they cleaned the commutator, a part of the motor. After reassembling the machine, it became apparent that the problem persisted.

Motor Behavior: During the spin cycle, after the pump stops, there was a characteristic sound, described as a “graunchywhine,” for a second, followed by silence. This indicated that power was reaching the motor. When they manually rotated the drum while the motor was energized, it started to spin briefly but then stopped again.

Multimeter Investigation: To delve deeper, they used a multimeter to measure various aspects of the motor:

• Tacho Contacts: The tacho contacts showed a resistance of 40 ohms.
• Stator Windings: All stator windings exhibited a resistance between 2 to 4 ohms, indicating they were in good condition (3 circuits).
• Armature: By slowly rotating the spindle through 360 degrees, they measured the armature’s resistance, which varied between 2 to 4 ohms. No open or short circuits were detected.

Dilemma and Considerations

Given the potentially high cost of a motor replacement, the user was unsure about the next steps. The community members provided valuable insights:

• Replacing the motor might not solve the problem, as it could be a power issue originating from the PCB (printed circuit board).
• Conversely, replacing the PCB might not resolve the issue if the motor itself is faulty.
• The challenge with this type of fault is that it’s challenging to determine the exact cause without trying a new motor.

Expertise of Engineers

In such situations, professional engineers have the advantage of troubleshooting by replacing components like the motor. If the fault persists, they can revert to the old component and try alternative solutions.

The Role of Capacitors

In the past, washing machines often used large capacitors to kick-start the motor. While the user suspected a motor capacitor issue, it was mentioned that these capacitors might now be integrated into the main board or motor control board. They suggested inspecting these components for signs of damage, such as leaked electrolyte or incorrect OHM measurements. However, caution was advised due to the high voltage stored in capacitors even when the machine is unplugged.

Considering the Armature

The user also explored the possibility of a faulty armature within the motor. While continuity tests may not reveal armature faults, a malfunctioning armature could exhibit symptoms similar to a power supply issue.

Exploring the Speed Sensor

It was noted that error E08 relates to the “speed sensor,” specifically the tacho coil at the rear of the motor. If this coil is working correctly and not open circuit, the issue could lie further downstream in the control board, potentially involving chips, microprocessors, and other components.

Testing the Motor

While it was acknowledged that directly supplying power to the motor could initiate a full spin, this approach was considered somewhat risky. However, it was an option for those comfortable with the process.

Conclusion

In summary, dealing with Hoover washing machine error E08 can be a complex task. The community discussions provided insights into potential issues with the motor, PCB, capacitors, and more. If you’re facing this error, it’s advisable to approach the problem systematically, considering all possible factors, and if necessary, consult a professional technician for a precise diagnosis and solution.