Frigidaire Affinity Washer: Detergent Drawer Overflow... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The washer's Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the water inlet valves, directing water to the dispenser at specific points in the wash cycle. The MCU sends a 120V AC signal to open the valves. Improper valve closure, siphon effects, or drainage issues can all cause water to remain in the dispenser.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the detergent drawer of their Frigidaire Affinity washer is full of water and soap residue after the completion of a wash cycle.

Possible Causes:

Clogged or restricted drain line from the detergent dispenser.
Faulty water inlet valve leaking into the dispenser during the spin cycle.
Excessive detergent usage leading to suds overflow.
Siphon effect due to improper leveling of the washer.
Defective dispenser solenoid preventing proper water diversion.

Solution:

1

Disconnect the power to the washer by unplugging it from the wall outlet.
2

Inspect the drain line from the detergent dispenser to the main tub. Look for kinks, clogs, or obstructions. Clear any debris with a small brush or wire.
3

Check the water inlet valve assembly. Turn on the water supply to the washer. If water is leaking from the valve even when the washer is off, replace the valve.
4

Verify the washer is level using a bubble level. Adjust the leveling feet as needed to ensure proper drainage.
5

Remove the detergent dispenser drawer and clean it thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry completely before reinstalling.
6

Run a test cycle with an empty drum and observe the dispenser drawer during the fill, wash, and spin cycles to identify the source of the water accumulation.
7

If the issue persists, check the dispenser solenoid valve using a multimeter. It should read approximately 1.2k ohms. If the reading is significantly different, replace the solenoid.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance before performing any diagnostic or repair procedures. Use Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures. Be aware of potential 120V AC hazards when testing electrical components.

Prevention:

Use the recommended amount of High-Efficiency (HE) detergent as specified in the user manual. Periodically clean the detergent dispenser drawer and flush the dispenser drain line with hot water to prevent clogs. Ensure the washer is level.

Expert Tip:

On some Frigidaire Affinity models, you can enter a diagnostic mode by pressing and holding the 'Start/Pause' and 'Cancel' buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. This can reveal error codes related to water inlet and drainage.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain line from the detergent dispenser?

Typically, you'll need to remove the top panel of the washer (usually held by screws at the back) and then locate the small drain hose connecting the dispenser to the outer tub. It's often secured with hose clamps.

•What type of detergent is recommended for the Frigidaire Affinity washer?

Only use High-Efficiency (HE) detergent. Using regular detergent can cause excessive sudsing and contribute to dispenser overflow issues.

•What should the water pressure be at the inlet valves?

The water pressure should be between 20 PSI and 100 PSI. Low water pressure can affect the filling and rinsing performance of the washer.

Frigidaire Affinity Washer: Detergent Drawer Overflow Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain line from the detergent dispenser?

•What type of detergent is recommended for the Frigidaire Affinity washer?

•What should the water pressure be at the inlet valves?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: