How to Troubleshoot a Stuck Door in a Hotpoint Washing Machine

ID: 218483

Description: [youtubevideo|u_A4VreSOAE]Use this guide when a...

Steps:

  1. Check the display for an F06 error code.
  2. An F06 code can mean the door won't open, but these checks also apply if no code appears.
  3. Confirm the wash program has ended and the drum has stopped before trying to open the door.
  4. Don't force the door open while the washer is running, holding hot water, or filled above the bottom of the door glass.
  5. Let the washer cool if the water or door glass feels hot.
  6. Switch the washer off.
  7. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
  8. Leave the washer unplugged for a couple of minutes.
  9. Try the door handle gently to see if the lock has released.
  10. Reconnect power only if you need the control panel to check the child lock.
  11. Check the child lock key indicator on the front panel.
  12. If the child lock light is on during a wash program, the door is locked by design.
  13. When the program has finished, hold the child lock button for 2 to 3 seconds to turn it off.
  14. Listen for a beep, and try the door handle.
  15. Turn the washer off and unplug it before using any manual release method.
  16. Use a blunt instrument, such as the handle end of a spoon, to open the lower front panel.
  17. Locate the filter, and find the plastic pull lever on the right side of it.
  18. Gently pull the lever downward, and keep tugging until the door releases.
  19. Use pliers only if you can't grip the lever with your fingers.
  20. The lever is plastic, so don't squeeze or pull hard enough to snap it.
  21. Use an plastic card in the door gap where the door releases.
  22. Slide the card in and out to catch the door release.
  23. Push the release with the card, and try the door handle gently.
  24. Use a card you don't need, because it may bend during this method.
  25. Push a small string into the door groove at the door release mechanism.
  26. Feed the string all the way around the door groove.
  27. Hold the top and bottom ends of the string.
  28. Pull both ends to catch the release mechanism and open the door.
  29. Use a large flat-blade screwdriver only if every less forceful method failed and you accept damage risk.
  30. Insert the blade into the door gap near the latch.
  31. Lever the door outward to wedge the latch free.
  32. This method can damage the door mechanism.
  33. If the door still won't open, or if the latch won't work after opening, have a washing machine engineer inspect the door release mechanism.
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