Why does the washing machine shock? Overview of the most common causes of the problem

The washing machine receives an electric shock due to the fact that there is no grounding or a specific part, for example, a heating element, has been broken. Usually the current is small, but such a problem requires a quick solution. It is necessary to establish grounding, determine the source of shock, and then repair or completely replace the faulty part.

Main reasons

If the washing machine is electrocuted, the reason may be natural. The fact is that perfect insulation does not exist, and sometimes current “leaks away”. Its power is a maximum of 10 mA, which does not pose any danger to humans.

There are other explanations why a washing machine gives an electric shock; they can be divided into several groups:

1. There is no grounding, which is why part of the charge begins to accumulate, for example, on the casing and in other elements.
2. Reasons related to the device itself. For example, a heating device breaks and the washing machine gets an electric shock - but it’s not clear what to do. In such cases, it is necessary to accurately determine the source of the leak and replace the burnt parts of the wiring or simply make a new winding.
3. The room is very humid, water condenses in the form of small drops. Then the unit needs to be placed in a drier place, and if this is not possible, at least leave the door open and regularly ventilate the apartment.
4. The socket is broken or the wires are worn out. For example, a grounded conductor may overheat, and its contact in the socket may burn out. Then there will be no grounding, and the electricity will have nowhere to flow.
5. Failure of the power cut-off system (RCD) - it stops de-energizing the wiring even with a large leak.

A person can easily feel when a washing machine produces an electric current, since the body also becomes a conductor of electricity, through which electricity goes directly to the ground. Most often this is a slight tingling sensation, but if the force is too strong, the sensation will be unpleasant. In addition, they can be triggered by high humidity, which is observed in the bath and kitchen.

What parts may require repair?

When a washing machine receives an electric shock, it can be caused by breakdowns of various components. First of all, it is recommended to check the following elements:

1. Problems with the operation of the heating element - if it is broken, electricity goes to the drum. It should be noted that this is the most common reason why a washing machine electrocutes. It can be diagnosed by the absence or weak heating of water. The heating element will need to be repaired or completely replaced.
2. A more serious situation, when the washing machine electrocutes, is associated with a motor malfunction. If an insulation breakdown is observed during washing, spinning or rinsing, currents flow to the drum and body. The motor can be repaired, but if the problem is advanced, you will have to replace it with a new part.
3. There are malfunctions in the operation of the network filter (FPS), which causes the washing machine drum to receive an electric current. Also, unpleasant sensations can occur due to contact with tap water, wet floors and the body (even if it is dry).This element cannot be repaired - it will need to be replaced.
4. Damage to the power button - it also has insulation, which should prevent such situations. But if it is violated, the wash cannot be started. Mild electric shocks are felt upon contact with the body and drum, as well as tap water and wet floors. To fix the problem, you need to install a new button.
5. If the washing machine is electrocuted, this can also be explained by damage to the wiring located inside the unit. Then the shock is felt even in cases where the device is simply plugged in (and the washing process is not started). The wiring can be repaired or the cable with wires can be completely replaced.

Basic preventive measures

You need to figure out why the washing machine is electrocuted, and most importantly, how to eliminate this violation. Since a breakdown is potentially dangerous, it is important to follow the sequence of actions:

1. First, turn off the shield in the entire apartment. If the device is connected to a separate line, only that line needs to be de-energized.
2. Then remove the plug from the socket.
3. After this, the machine does not generate electric shock, so you can begin repairs.
4. Check the condition of the outlet - if everything is in order, you can turn on the lights in the apartment again.
5. When understanding why the washing machine drum is electrocuted, you should definitely take care of grounding and RCD. You can install a protective system for the entire apartment or on a separate line for the washing machine.
6. Regardless of why the washing machine is electrocuted, it is not recommended to use extension cords. The unit spends a lot of energy, especially on heating the heating element, so carrying it may simply not cope with such voltage.
7. If it is not possible to make grounding, install an RCD.

If the washing machine produces an electric shock, the reasons can be determined quite accurately. In this case, it is very important to observe safety measures, for example, carry out repairs only when the device is de-energized. In addition, it is worth understanding the danger of connecting the ground to a heating radiator or riser. In this case, both the residents of the apartment and their neighbors can receive an electric shock.