Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

[PSU]

I have a Zanussi DCS-14W dishwasher (compact model) – every so often
the dishwasher will become ‘stuck’ while operating, it seems to get to
a random point in the early wash cycle then all it does is constantly
pump in and out a small amount of water.

I’ve found that by turning it on its side (or upside down) while
switched off usually fixes the problem, although sometimes it can be
‘fixed’ if slightly tipped to one side while ‘stuck’ and switched on – it then stops the pump/wash cycle for a second or two, the dial on the front may click around a bit (as it should) then it continues and all is well.

What is causing this? Some blockage somewhere?

What can I do to fix it more permanently? I’d rather not spend a
fortune on an engineer (or a new dishwasher for that matter)?

Thanks

[Dave_Conway]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

Possibly a heating error, it may be worth checking the element (with the power off of course :zap:)

If you’re unsure, please check the link below for an engineer 🙂

Dave.

[PSU]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

Dave_Conway wrote:Possibly a heating error, it may be worth checking the element (with the power off of course :zap:)

Thanks. However, the water heating in the unit seems to be working just fine (when the cycle is operating correctly and not ‘sticking’). Or are you saying that it’s possibly intermittent and the tilting of the washer is perhaps temporarily making good a bad connection somewhere in the heating or with the element?

[Penguin45]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

When you tip the machine, does water run out of the base?

Penguin45.

[PSU]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

Yes, water runs out of the front corner when I tip it.

[Penguin45]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

You have some sort of leak into the undertray and the flood protection will be cutting in. One common source was the locking ring of the salt chamber needing tightening. The other common one was using tablets in these machines. They are designed for full size, 12 setting machines, so overdose and froth like mad in these little compacts.

HTH,
Regards,
Penguin45.

[PSU]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

I see, many thanks.

Regarding the locking ring of the salt chamber – do you mean the seal on the salt chamber refill cap ?

I don’t use tablets in this machine, just powder.

[Penguin45]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

Not the cap. The neck of the chamber comes through the floor of the machine and is clamped in place by the plastic ring. It’s a so and so for dribbling into the bottom.

Penguin45.

[PSU]

Re: Zanussi DCS-14W – sometimes getting ‘stuck’ in a cycle

I understand.

This of course begs the question – how do I get at the locking ring that you mentioned?

I’m pretty good with dismantling and reassembling items, but a manual would help to ID the part if you know if one is available to download anywhere please?

[Author]

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