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Smeg Washing Machine Error Codes E1–E12: Complete Troubleshooting Guide, Causes, Diagnosis and Solutions

Smeg washing machines and washer-dryers use built-in diagnostic systems to detect abnormal operating conditions involving the door, water supply, drainage sy...

Bison Technical Team Enterprise IT specialists

Updated 25 Aug 2026 15 min read 0 total views

Smeg washing machines and washer-dryers use built-in diagnostic systems to detect abnormal operating conditions involving the door, water supply, drainage system, heating circuit, motor, sensors, power supply and electronic control system.

When the control electronics detect a problem, the appliance may stop the program and display an error such as E01, E02, E03, E04, E05, E06, E07, E08, E09 or E10. Other Smeg platforms use codes including E1 through E14, with E10–E12 associated with motor-control faults on some machines.

The most important point is that Smeg error codes are platform and model dependent.

Smeg's own UK guidance groups several washing-machine codes by the action a customer should take rather than publishing one universal component-level definition for every Smeg machine. For example, Smeg UK advises checking the water hose and filters for E05, E06 and E12, while many other codes require service attention.

Therefore, never replace a component solely because an internet list says that an E-code means a particular part has failed.

Before troubleshooting, locate the exact model/product code from the appliance rating label and check the correct manual. Smeg provides an official manual lookup facility where the product code can be entered to obtain the applicable documentation.

Important: E1 and E01 May Not Mean the Same Thing

This is particularly important with Smeg appliances.

On one documented Smeg washing-machine platform, for example:

E01 = door not properly closed
E02 = insufficient water level/water-supply problem
E03 = drain-pump or drainage problem
E04 = excessive water
E05 = heater or temperature-sensor problem
E06 = motor fault
E07/E08 = electronic or motor-related faults depending on platform
E09 = abnormal mains voltage
E10 = communication error

These definitions are documented for the SWM65 family and illustrate why model identification matters.

Another later Smeg washing-machine/washer-dryer fault-code family uses E1 for a water-safety/leak condition and E10–E12 for motor-related problems.

Consequently, the following guide should be used as a diagnostic reference, not as a substitute for the service documentation for the exact machine.

Quick Smeg Error-Code Reference

Code	Common meaning on documented Smeg platforms	Main area to inspect
E1/E01	Leak/water safety or door fault, depending on model	Leak system or door/lock
E2/E02	Water-level/fill fault	Water supply, pressure sensing
E3/E03	Drain fault on some models	Pump, filter, drain hose
E4/E04	Overfill or temperature-sensing fault	Water level or temperature circuit
E5/E05	Heater/sensor or load/fill-related fault	Model verification essential
E6/E06	Drain or motor fault	Pump/drain or motor
E7/E07	Electronic/model-specific fault	Electronics/sensors
E8/E08	Motor/electronic/model-specific fault	Motor/control system
E9/E09	Supply-voltage/model-specific fault	Mains voltage/electronics
E10	Communication or motor overcurrent	Electronics/motor
E11	Motor control/triac fault on some platforms	Motor/control PCB
E12	Motor tacho or model-specific water-related fault	Model-specific diagnosis

Smeg E1 / E01 Error

Possible Meaning

E1 and E01 must not automatically be treated as identical.

On some Smeg washer/washer-dryer platforms, E1 indicates that the water safety system has detected a leak.

On the documented SWM65 platform, however, E01 indicates that the door is not properly closed.

If E01 is a door error

Check:

Remove laundry trapped between the door and gasket.
Close the door firmly.
Check the latch for damage.
Inspect the door-lock assembly.
Check wiring between the lock and control PCB.

A door may appear mechanically closed while the electronic interlock has failed to confirm the locked condition.

If E1 is a leak/water-safety error

Inspect for:

water beneath the appliance;
leaking inlet hose;
loose hose connections;
detergent-drawer leakage;
internal hose leakage;
pump or filter-housing leakage;
damaged door seal;
excessive detergent and foaming.

If water is leaking from the appliance, turn off the water supply and disconnect power before further investigation.

Smeg E2 / E02 Error

Possible Meaning: Water-Level or Water-Supply Problem

On one Smeg washer platform, E02 means that the machine has not obtained the expected water level and can be associated with inadequate water supply.

On other Smeg platforms, E2 is associated with water-level/anti-spill protection.

Check

Is the water tap fully open?
Is there adequate water pressure?
Is the inlet hose kinked?
Is the inlet filter blocked?
Is an AquaStop hose fitted and activated?
Is the inlet solenoid valve operating?
Is the pressure hose obstructed?
Is the pressure sensor receiving the correct signal?

Technician checks

Inspect the:

inlet valve coil;
pressure switch/sensor;
pressure chamber;
wiring harness;
PCB input circuit.

Smeg E3 / E03 Error

Possible Meaning: Drainage Fault on Some Washing Machines

On the documented SWM65 platform, E03 indicates a drain-pump failure, obstructed pump filter or drain-pump circuit problem.

Symptoms

The washer may:

stop with water inside;
refuse to spin;
take too long to drain;
make a humming noise;
display E03 after the wash or rinse stage.

Troubleshooting

Disconnect power before opening the pump filter.

Check:

Drain-pump filter.
Pump impeller.
Drain hose.
Household waste connection.
Pump wiring.
Pump winding.
PCB pump output.

Coins, buttons, lint, hair pins and other debris frequently cause drainage problems.

Smeg E4 / E04 Error

Possible Meaning: Excessive Water or Temperature-Sensing Fault

On SWM65-type machines, E04 indicates an excessive amount of water. The appliance may attempt to drain automatically.

On another documented Smeg washer family, E4 relates to the water-heating temperature sensor/thermistor circuit.

This is a good example of why the model number must be checked.

For an overfill condition, inspect

inlet valve stuck open;
pressure sensor;
pressure hose;
air chamber;
wiring;
PCB inlet-valve control.

For a temperature-sensor fault, inspect

NTC/thermistor;
sensor connector;
wiring harness;
resistance value;
control PCB.

Smeg E5 / E05 Error

E5 is especially model dependent.

On the SWM65 platform, E05 is associated with the heater or heat sensor.

A different later Smeg fault-code family documents E5 as a load/imbalance-related condition.

Smeg UK's consumer support also places E05 among the codes for which users should initially check the water-supply hose and filters.

Therefore, do not order a heater, sensor or inlet valve until the exact model's documentation has been checked.

If heating-related

Check:

heating element resistance;
heater insulation leakage;
NTC sensor;
wiring;
heater relay;
control PCB.

If water-related

Check:

inlet tap;
inlet hose;
mesh filter;
water pressure;
inlet valve.

Smeg E6 / E06 Error

E6/E06 also differs substantially by platform.

On SWM65-type machines, E06 indicates a motor fault.

Another Smeg washer fault-code family identifies E6 as a failure to drain.

Smeg UK's consumer guidance recommends checking the water-supply hose and filters when E06 is displayed before arranging service.

If drainage-related

Check:

pump filter;
drain hose;
drain pump;
impeller;
pressure system;
wiring.

If motor-related

A technician may need to inspect:

motor;
brushes where applicable;
tachometer;
wiring harness;
motor controller;
main PCB.

Smeg E7 / E07 Error

Model-Specific Electronic or Control Fault

E07 belongs to the group of Smeg washing-machine codes for which Smeg UK's consumer guidance recommends an engineer visit.

On older/platform-specific machines, E7 may indicate an electronic-control fault.

Possible diagnostic areas

main PCB;
wiring harness;
connectors;
sensor supply;
motor-control circuit;
communication between electronic modules.

Recommended action

Perform only basic checks such as a power reset and inspection for obvious loose external connections. Persistent electronic errors generally require professional diagnosis.

Smeg E8 / E08 Error

Possible Motor, Electronic or Platform-Specific Fault

Smeg UK lists E08 among codes generally requiring an engineer visit.

Depending on the machine platform, E8/E08 can involve the motor or electronic control system.

Technician checks may include

motor winding resistance;
insulation condition;
motor connector;
tachometer;
PCB motor-control stage;
wiring continuity.

Do not confuse washing-machine E8 information with Smeg dishwasher E8 information. Smeg dishwashers have their own diagnostic system and may use the same code for an entirely different fault.

Smeg E9 / E09 Error

Possible Supply-Voltage or Model-Specific Electronic Fault

On the SWM65 platform, E09 is associated with abnormal mains voltage. The documented machine can suspend operation if voltage falls outside its acceptable range and resume when supply conditions recover.

Smeg UK also identifies E09 as a code generally requiring engineer attention if displayed on its applicable washing-machine models.

Check

whether other appliances are experiencing voltage problems;
wall socket condition;
extension leads;
loose plug/socket connections;
supply stability.

Technician checks

actual supply voltage;
mains filter;
PCB power-supply section;
wiring and connectors.

Do not work on live mains circuitry unless properly trained and equipped.

Smeg E10 Error

Communication Error or Motor Overcurrent Depending on Platform

On the SWM65 platform, E10 indicates a communication error.

Another Smeg washer/washer-dryer fault family defines E10 as motor overcurrent, potentially involving the motor or main control module.

For a communication error

Possible causes include:

loose PCB connector;
damaged wiring harness;
main-board failure;
user-interface/control-board fault;
unstable supply.

For motor overcurrent

Possible causes include:

motor winding fault;
motor mechanically overloaded;
wiring short;
motor-control PCB failure.

Smeg E11 Error

Possible Motor Triac / Motor-Control Fault

On one documented Smeg washer family, E11 indicates a motor triac short/control error.

The triac is an electronic device used by some control boards to regulate power delivered to the motor.

Possible causes

failed motor triac;
shorted motor winding;
wiring short;
damaged connector;
PCB failure;
abnormal motor feedback.

Recommended action

E11 normally requires electrical diagnosis rather than simple user maintenance.

Do not replace the PCB without first checking the motor and wiring because a motor or harness fault may damage a replacement board.

Smeg E12 Error

Possible Motor Tachometer or Model-Specific Water-System Fault

On one documented Smeg washer/washer-dryer fault family, E12 indicates a motor tachometer/tacho feedback fault.

The tachometer tells the electronic controller how fast the drum motor is rotating.

However, Smeg UK's general consumer guidance places E12 among codes where the water-supply hose and filters should first be checked.

This difference again demonstrates that E12 is not universal across all Smeg washing machines.

For a tacho-related E12

A technician should check:

tachometer;
motor connector;
motor wiring;
motor itself;
control PCB;
speed-feedback circuit.

For a water-related E12

Check:

water tap;
inlet hose;
inlet filters;
water pressure;
inlet valve.

Smeg Door and Door-Lock Errors

Door problems are common washing-machine faults even when a particular model does not label them E1.

Possible symptoms include:

program does not start;
Start/Pause light flashes;
door will not lock;
door remains locked;
machine fills but stops;
door-related error appears.

Check for clothing trapped around the gasket and ensure the door closes firmly.

A persistent fault may involve the:

latch;
PTC/interlock;
wiring;
connector;
PCB.

On another documented Smeg washer family, E13 specifically identifies a PTC door-lock error.

Smeg Washing Machine Not Filling

If the machine cannot obtain water, check the simple causes before suspecting electronics.

Check

Household water supply is available.
Tap is fully open.
Inlet hose is not kinked.
Mesh inlet filter is clean.
Water pressure is adequate.
Door is properly locked.

If these are satisfactory, possible technical causes include:

inlet solenoid valve;
pressure sensor;
wiring;
AquaStop system;
control PCB.

Smeg Washing Machine Not Draining

Drainage problems are among the most common washing-machine issues.

First checks

Disconnect the appliance from power.

Then inspect:

pump filter;
drain hose;
waste connection;
pump chamber.

A documented Smeg E6 drain-fault procedure specifically recommends checking the pump filter, drain hose, pump, pressure system and associated connections.

Warning

Water may pour from the filter housing when it is opened. Prepare a shallow tray and towels before removing the filter.

Smeg Washing Machine Not Heating

A washing machine may still complete some cycles even when heating is defective.

Possible causes include:

failed heating element;
NTC temperature sensor;
broken wiring;
heater relay;
control-board fault.

Typical symptoms include:

very long programs;
poor washing performance;
heating-related error;
cycle stopping during heating.

Resistance and insulation tests involve electrical measurements and should be performed by a qualified technician.

Smeg Washing Machine Motor Errors

Motor-related codes should be treated carefully because the apparent motor error may originate elsewhere.

Possible causes include:

motor winding failure;
worn carbon brushes on applicable motors;
tacho failure;
wiring problem;
control-board motor circuit;
mechanical drum restriction.

Try rotating the drum manually with the machine disconnected from electricity.

The drum should generally rotate without severe mechanical resistance.

Grinding, scraping or excessive movement may indicate a mechanical problem rather than an electronic motor fault.

Smeg Electronic Control / PCB Errors

Electronic errors can occur because of:

failed components on the PCB;
damaged wiring;
loose connectors;
moisture;
motor electrical faults;
power disturbances;
communication failure between modules.

Do not immediately replace the control board.

A competent diagnostic procedure checks the connected loads first, particularly:

motor;
heater;
pump;
inlet valves;
door lock;
wiring.

Otherwise, a shorted peripheral component may damage the replacement PCB.

How to Reset a Smeg Washing Machine Error

The exact reset procedure varies by model.

A safe basic procedure is:

Stop the program.
Switch the washing machine off.
Disconnect it from mains power.
Wait several minutes.
Reconnect power.
Switch the appliance on.
Select a short program.
Check whether the fault returns.

A reset may clear a temporary electronic condition, but it does not repair a genuine mechanical or electrical fault.

If the same code immediately returns, further diagnosis is required.

Before Calling a Smeg Service Engineer

Record the following information:

full model number;
product code;
serial number;
exact error code;
whether the error occurs immediately or later;
cycle selected;
whether water enters;
whether water drains;
whether the drum rotates;
whether unusual noises occur;
whether water is leaking.

This information can significantly improve fault diagnosis.

Use the official Smeg user-manual lookup and enter the appliance product code to locate documentation for the exact model.

When Should You Stop DIY Troubleshooting?

Stop and disconnect the machine if:

water is leaking;
there is a burning smell;
the plug or socket becomes hot;
the circuit breaker repeatedly trips;
electrical arcing occurs;
the motor produces abnormal noises;
internal wiring appears damaged;
the error repeatedly returns after basic checks.

Internal testing may expose 230 V mains electricity, stored electrical energy, hot components and moving parts.

PCB, motor, heater and insulation testing should therefore be carried out by a competent appliance technician.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does E1 mean on a Smeg washing machine?

It depends on the model. Some Smeg washer platforms use E1 for a water-safety/leak condition, while some machines use E01 for an improperly closed door. Check the exact model documentation before diagnosing the fault.

2. Why are different meanings listed online for the same Smeg error code?

Because Smeg has sold multiple washing-machine and washer-dryer platforms over many years. Diagnostic numbering is not identical across every platform.

3. Is E01 the same as E1?

Not necessarily. Leading-zero codes can belong to a different diagnostic platform. Always match the code to the appliance model.

4. What does Smeg E02 mean?

On some models it indicates that the expected water level has not been reached, potentially because of low pressure or a water-supply problem. Other platforms associate E2 with water-level protection.

5. What does Smeg E03 mean?

On documented SWM65-type machines, E03 indicates a drain-pump, blocked-filter or pump-circuit problem.

6. How do I fix a Smeg washer that will not drain?

Disconnect power, check the pump filter, drain hose and household drain connection. If these are clear, the drain pump, pressure system, wiring or control board may require testing.

7. What does Smeg E05 mean?

It is model dependent. Some platforms associate E05 with the heater/temperature sensor, while Smeg UK's broader consumer guidance recommends checking the water hose and filters for applicable E05 machines.

8. What does Smeg E06 mean?

Some Smeg machines use E06 for a motor problem, while another Smeg diagnostic family uses E6 for a drainage failure. Verify the model before replacing parts.

9. What does Smeg E09 mean?

On SWM65-type machines, E09 is associated with mains supply voltage being too high or too low. Other platforms may use the code differently.

10. What does Smeg E10 mean?

E10 can indicate a communication fault on one Smeg platform or motor overcurrent on another.

11. What does Smeg E11 mean?

On a documented Smeg washer/washer-dryer diagnostic family, E11 indicates a motor-control triac fault. The motor, wiring and control board should be diagnosed before parts are replaced.

12. What does Smeg E12 mean?

On one Smeg fault-code family, E12 relates to the motor tachometer. However, Smeg UK's consumer support advises checking water hoses and filters for applicable machines displaying E12, showing that the meaning varies by model.

13. Can I reset a Smeg error by unplugging the washer?

A power reset can clear a temporary condition, but it will not repair a defective pump, motor, heater, sensor, door lock or PCB.

14. Why does my Smeg washer show an error again immediately after reset?

The control system is probably detecting the same fault again. Record the code and investigate the associated system rather than repeatedly resetting the machine.

15. Can a blocked filter cause an error code?

Yes. Restricted drainage or water flow can trigger errors on applicable models.

16. Can low water pressure cause a Smeg washer error?

Yes. If the machine cannot achieve the expected water level within the allowed time, it may stop and generate a water-supply or fill-related fault.

17. Can too much detergent cause errors?

Potentially. Excessive detergent can produce heavy foam, interfere with drainage and water-level sensing, and cause leakage or poor spinning.

18. Why does my Smeg washer stop before spinning?

Common causes include retained water, an unbalanced load, motor problems, door-lock issues or sensor/control faults.

19. Should I replace the PCB when an electronic error appears?

Not automatically. Wiring, sensors, motors, pumps, heaters and door locks should be checked because a connected component can cause an apparent PCB error.

20. Where can I find the correct error information for my Smeg washing machine?

Locate the appliance model/product code and use Smeg's official manual search. The exact manual should take priority over generic error-code lists.

Technical Summary

Smeg washing-machine error codes should always be interpreted in the context of the exact appliance model and diagnostic platform.

The major systems involved in E-code troubleshooting include:

door interlock;
water inlet;
water-level sensing;
drainage;
heater;
temperature sensor;
motor;
tachometer;
wiring harness;
mains power;
electronic control PCB.

For users, the safest first steps are checking the door, water supply, inlet/drain hoses, accessible filters, load balance and external power supply.

Motor, heater, PCB, wiring and live electrical diagnosis should be left to qualified technicians.

Most importantly, do not assume that E1–E12 have one universal meaning across all Smeg washing machines. Smeg documentation and published fault references show substantial platform differences. Always identify the model/product code first and verify the error against the correct service or user documentation.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for general educational and troubleshooting purposes only. Error-code meanings, component designs, wiring and diagnostic procedures can vary by Smeg model, production series and country. Always verify information against the official manual or service documentation for the exact appliance.

Disconnect the appliance from electricity before performing user-accessible maintenance. Do not open electrical panels or test live circuits unless you are appropriately trained. For persistent faults, electrical failures, leaks, burning smells or internal repairs, contact Smeg or a qualified appliance service technician.