Washing Machine Not Heating Water

Faulty Heating Element

The most common cause. The heating element warms the water inside the drum. Over time it can burn out or develop a fault, leaving the machine unable to heat above cold water temperature. Requires professional replacement.

Faulty NTC Temperature Sensor

The NTC sensor monitors water temperature and tells the control board when the target has been reached. A faulty sensor may incorrectly report that the water is already at temperature, causing the machine to skip heating entirely.

Faulty Control Board

If the control board is not sending the correct signal to the heating element, the element will not activate even if it is otherwise in good working order. Requires professional diagnosis.

Wiring Fault

A loose or damaged wire connection to the heating element or temperature sensor can interrupt the heating circuit. This requires a qualified engineer to inspect and repair safely.

Check You Have Selected the Correct Programme

Ensure the programme selected is set to a temperature above cold. Some eco programmes deliberately wash at low temperatures — this is by design and not a fault.

Run a Hot Wash and Check the Door Glass

Select a 60°C programme and carefully feel the door glass after 15 to 20 minutes. If the glass feels cold, the water is not heating. If it feels warm, the element may be working but heating slowly.

Reset the Machine

Switch off at the mains and leave unplugged for a few minutes. Plug back in and try running a hot wash programme again. This can clear temporary electronic faults affecting the heating circuit.

Check for an Error Code

Most machines display a heating-related error code when this fault occurs. Note the code and select your brand below to identify the exact fault and recommended next steps.