Why Your Tumble Dryer Keeps Saying ’empty Water’ (and What You Can Do About It)

If your tumble dryer repeatedly displays the “empty water” message, it can cause frustration and inconvenience. Understanding the reasons behind this issue is crucial for effective troubleshooting and resolution. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the potential causes of this error and provide detailed solutions to help you get your dryer back in working order.

Common Causes of “Empty Water” Error

1. Condenser Blockage

The condenser is responsible for collecting moisture from the air during the drying process. Blockages in the condenser can prevent water from draining, leading to the “empty water” error.

2. Faulty Water Sensor

The water sensor detects the water level in the condenser. If the sensor malfunctions, it may fail to recognize that the condenser is empty, resulting in the error message.

3. Damaged Drain Pump

The drain pump removes water from the condenser and drains it into a hose. A damaged pump can hinder water removal, causing the error message.

4. Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose carries water from the pump to the drain. Blockages in the hose can prevent water from draining, triggering the “empty water” error.

5. Faulty Control Board

The control board manages the dryer’s functions. If the board malfunctions, it may send incorrect signals to the water sensor or drain pump, leading to the error message.

Troubleshooting and Resolution

1. Clean the Condenser

Unplug the dryer and remove the condenser. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any lint or debris that may be blocking the condenser.

2. Check the Water Sensor

Locate the water sensor, which is typically a small plastic device attached to the condenser. Inspect the sensor for any damage or corrosion. If necessary, replace the sensor.

3. Test the Drain Pump

Disconnect the drain hose from the pump and place a bucket under the hose. Start the dryer and observe if water flows out of the hose. If water does not flow, the pump may be damaged and need replacement.

4. Clean the Drain Hose

Disconnect the drain hose from both the dryer and the drain. Use a plumber’s snake or a strong stream of water to clear any blockages in the hose.

5. Reset the Control Board

Unplug the dryer and wait for a few minutes. Plug the dryer back in and start it to reset the control board.

Additional Tips

• Regularly clean the lint filter to prevent lint buildup that can clog the condenser.
• Use a dryer sheet to help reduce static and prevent lint accumulation.
• Do not overload the dryer, as this can strain the condenser and drain system.
• If the “empty water” error persists after troubleshooting, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Questions You May Have

1. Why does my dryer say “empty water” even though the condenser is empty?

Possible causes include a faulty water sensor, damaged drain pump, clogged drain hose, or a malfunctioning control board.

2. How often should I clean the condenser in my tumble dryer?

For optimal performance, it is recommended to clean the condenser every 3-6 months, depending on usage and the type of dryer.

3. Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean the condenser?

Yes, you can use a soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to gently remove lint and debris from the condenser.

4. What are the signs of a damaged drain pump?

Signs of a damaged drain pump include excessive noise, water leaking from the pump, or no water flowing out of the drain hose when the dryer is running.

5. How do I know if the control board in my dryer is faulty?

Symptoms of a faulty control board can vary depending on the model, but may include erratic behavior, unusual error messages, or failure to respond to button presses.