Incorrect system operation aquacontrol in Ariston dishwashers, it is most often signaled by flashing indicators corresponding to code F05 or simply the number 5 on the display. This malfunction indicates that the electronics do not receive correct data about the process of draining waste water, which blocks the start of the main washing cycle. Ignoring this signal can lead to overfilling of the pan and flooding of the kitchen, so diagnostics should be carried out immediately after the first signs of failure appear.
Equipment owners Ariston encounter a similar problem in both older models and modern digitally controlled devices. Most often, the reason lies in a clogged filter system or a malfunction of the pressure switch, which is responsible for monitoring the liquid level. Understanding the operating principle of the drain assembly allows you to quickly localize the problem and avoid calling a technician in simple cases when preventive cleaning is sufficient.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on diagnosing or disassembling the dishwasher, be sure to disconnect the device from the electrical network to avoid electric shock.
Deciphering the fault code and how the system works
Error code 5 in the dishwasher line Ariston and Indesit (often having a similar design) indicates a problem with water drainage. The electronic control module records that water does not leave the working chamber within the allotted time, or the level sensor reports the presence of liquid where it should not be. Pressostat transmits a signal that the drain has not occurred, and the machine goes into emergency mode, blocking further operations.
The system is built on constant monitoring: after each rinsing stage or main wash, the pump must pump out liquid into the sewer. If this does not happen, or if the emergency leakage sensor in the pan (aquastop) is triggered, the corresponding indicator lights up. It is important to distinguish whether the error is caused by a mechanical obstruction or an electronic failure.
Circulation pump and the drain pump work in conjunction with sensors, and desynchronization of their readings causes a failure. In some models, error 5 can be combined with other codes if the problem is complex, for example, with a short circuit in the sensor wiring. Accurate diagnosis requires checking each element of the circuit.Primary diagnostics: checking filters and drain hose
The most common and common cause of error 5 is a clogged filtration system. Residues of food, grease and scale can completely block the flow of water to the drain pump, creating the illusion of a breakdown. First of all, it is necessary to remove the lower basket and dismantle the filter element located at the bottom of the washing chamber.
After removing the strainer, carefully inspect the drain hole. Often this is where bones, toothpicks or large pieces of food accumulate. Cleaning should be done with a soft brush and warm water with the addition of a degreaser. Do not use sharp objects to avoid damaging the plastic bottom or pump blades.
☑️ Checklist for initial inspection
If the filters are clean, we proceed to inspect the drain hose. It should not be twisted, crushed by furniture or have creases. Stagnation of water in the hose due to an incorrect slope can also cause an error. Make sure that the height of the hose meets the requirements of the instructions (usually at least 40-50 cm from the floor level) to prevent the backflow of water from the sewer.
Diagnostics and replacement of the drain pump
If no mechanical obstacles to the outflow of water are found, there is a high probability of a malfunction of the drain pump (pumps). This unit is responsible for forcibly pushing water out of the system. During prolonged use, plaque may form on the motor shaft, or the electric motor may burn out.
To check, you must gain access to the bottom of the machine by removing the side or rear wall (depending on the model). Visually inspect the pump for external damage and check the integrity of the wires going to it. Often the pump impeller can become blocked by a small object that has passed through the filter.
How to test a pump with a multimeter
To check the pump, you need to ring its winding with a multimeter in resistance measurement mode. Normal readings range from 150-200 ohms. If the device shows infinity (open) or zero (short circuit), the pump must be replaced. Also check the voltage at the contacts when you turn on the drain mode - it should be 220V.
Replacing the drain pump is a moderately complex procedure that requires care. The new unit must fully match the model of your dishwasher Ariston. After installing the new part, be sure to conduct a test run, observing the draining process.
Checking the pressure switch and level sensor tube
Pressostat - this is the key element that informs the control module about the water level in the tank. If this sensor fails or its tube becomes clogged, the machine “does not understand” that the water has already left and continues to hum or displays error 5.It is necessary to locate the pressure switch (usually it is located at the bottom of the case) and disconnect the transparent silicone tube from it. Blow out the tube and check the sensor itself for condensation inside. Water entering the electrical part of the pressure switch causes corrosion of the contacts and incorrect readings.
⚠️ Attention: When working with water level sensors, avoid sudden mechanical impacts, as the membrane inside the pressure switch is very sensitive and breaks easily.
If purging does not help, it is better to replace the sensor. They are inexpensive, and their malfunction is often hidden, when an apparently serviceable part no longer responds correctly to changes in air pressure.
Check valve clogged or faulty
The drain system design often uses a check valve to prevent dirty sewer water from returning back to the machine. If this valve is stuck in the closed position, water is physically unable to leave the tank, which is recorded by the system as an error.
Checking the valve requires disassembling the drain assembly. You need to make sure that the valve flap moves freely and is not stuck due to scale or grease. Sometimes a thorough cleaning and lubrication with silicone grease is enough to restore functionality.
In rare cases, the valve may be damaged by chemically aggressive detergents if their concentration is exceeded. Using high-quality dishwasher chemicals extends the life of rubber seals and valves.
Resetting the error and testing the system
After all repair work or preventive measures have been carried out, it is necessary to reset the error from the memory of the electronic module. Most models Ariston To do this, just turn off the machine with the power button, and then unplug it from the outlet for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the capacitors to discharge and reset the temporary errors.
After switching on, start the express wash program without dishes. Observe the process: the water should fill up, heat up (if the heating mode is selected) and, most importantly, silently and completely drain at the end of the cycle. If error 5 does not appear, then the problem is resolved.
Tip: To prevent drainage errors, use special salts for dishwashers and regularly (once a month) run a wash cycle with citric acid to remove scale.
If after all the manipulations the error code is returned, the problem may lie in the control module itself, which incorrectly interprets signals from working sensors. In this case, professional diagnostics with an oscilloscope is required.
Comparison table of causes and solutions
To systematize information about the possible causes of error 5, below is a table with the main symptoms and actions.
| Cause of failure | Probability | Required actions | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filter clogged | High | Cleaning the filter system | Low |
| Drain pump malfunction | Average | Replacing the pump | Average |
| Drain hose clogged | Average | Blowing out or replacing the hose | Low |
| Pressostat malfunction | Low | Replacing the level sensor | Average |
| Control module failure | Low | Board repair or replacement | High |
Main conclusion: In 80% of cases, error 5 can be solved by thoroughly cleaning the filters and checking the drain hose, without requiring expensive repairs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I continue to use the dishwasher if error 5 is on?
Operating the machine with an active drain error is not recommended. This can lead to bacterial growth in stagnant water, an unpleasant odor and, in the worst case, water leaking onto the floor the next time you refill.
Why does error 5 appear periodically and not constantly?
An intermittent occurrence of the code may indicate that the drain pump is starting to wear out, sometimes sticking, or it may indicate a partial blockage that is allowing water to flow slowly. Oxidation of contacts in connectors is also possible, which depends on humidity.
How to reset error 5 on an Ariston dishwasher without disconnecting from the network?
On some models with a display, you can try holding down a combination of buttons (usually the power button and program selection button) for 5-10 seconds. However, a complete reset of errors is only possible if the device is completely de-energized for a long time.
What is the service life of the drain pump in Ariston dishwashers?
On average, drain pumps last 5-7 years with active use. The period depends on the quality of the water, the presence of protective nets and the regularity of cleaning the filters. The use of aggressive chemicals reduces the life of rubber pump seals.