I was close to getting rid of this now ancient washing machine when I decided to have another go at fixing it. It would fill up with water, run halfway through a cycle and stop. The LEDs would be flashing and it would display a flashing F05 code. I had looked up that code in the past and it said "blocked drainage", which was quite vague. I'd seen some other people fix similar machines by clearing the drain pipe and water pump but it hadn't worked for me.

On the second attempt I discovered that there was a facecloth and a coin wedged so tightly inside the drain hole leading to the water pump. I had missed it the first time I looked because of how far in it was and how tightly wound around it was - the facecloth that is. I torn piece of the cloth was wrapped around the coin, creating a kind of soggy ball causing drain to shut off given the correct amount of detergent/water. As such, sometimes the drain would work, sometimes not.

I had to employ a pair of pliers and a hose cleaning brush to get it really clean and dislodge the debris. There was a horrific smell, understandably, that came out of the pipe as the machine appeared to breathe a sigh of relief. I cleaned everything out and ran a very hot cycle through it so now the machine is fully functioning and everything smells fresh and clean again. Another DIY win ✅

Peace & Love,

Adé