Indesit IWD 71451 - User Manual

This document serves as a comprehensive instruction manual for the Indesit IWD 71451 washing machine, covering installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It is designed to guide users through every aspect of owning and using their appliance effectively and safely.

Function Description

The Indesit IWD 71451 is a washing machine designed for domestic use, offering a variety of wash cycles and functions to cater to different laundry needs. Its primary function is to clean clothes using water, detergent, and mechanical action, followed by rinsing and spinning to remove excess water. The machine features a control panel that allows users to select specific wash cycles, adjust temperature and spin speed, and activate additional functions for personalized washing.

The control panel includes an ON/OFF button to power the machine, a WASH CYCLE knob to choose from a range of programmes, and TEMPERATURE and SPIN SPEED knobs for fine-tuning settings. Function buttons with indicator lights enable the selection of special features, enhancing wash results. A DISPLAY shows the cycle duration and remaining time, while a DELAY TIMER button allows for postponing the start of a wash cycle. WASH CYCLE PROGRESS indicator lights keep the user informed about the current phase of the wash, and a DOOR LOCKED indicator light signals when the door cannot be opened for safety. The START/PAUSE button initiates or temporarily halts the wash cycle.

The washing machine operates with an automatic standby system to comply with energy-saving regulations, activating after about 30 minutes of inactivity. A brief press of the ON/OFF button will reactivate the machine.

Usage Features

The Indesit IWD 71451 offers a user-friendly experience with its intuitive controls and diverse wash programmes. To start a wash cycle, users first switch on the machine, load laundry, and close the door. They then select the desired programme using the WASH CYCLE knob, adjust the temperature with the TEMPERATURE knob, and set the spin speed using the SPIN SPEED knob. Detergent and washing additives are added to the detergent dispenser drawer, which is divided into compartments for different stages of the wash. Finally, any desired functions are selected, and the START/PAUSE button is pressed to begin the cycle.

The machine provides a wide array of wash cycles, categorized into Daily, 20° Zone, Special, and Partial wash cycles. Daily cycles include options for White Cotton (extremely soiled or standard), Synthetics (heavily or lightly soiled), and Mix Colored. The 20° Zone offers energy-efficient programmes like Cotton Standard, Mix Light, and 20' Refresh, designed for effective washing at lower temperatures. Special cycles cater to specific garment types such as Outwear, Wool, Jeans, Sport Intensive, Sport Light, and Special Shoes. Partial wash cycles include Rinse and Spin + Drain for specific needs.

Users can personalize their wash by adjusting the temperature and spin speed. The machine automatically prevents selection of temperatures or spin speeds exceeding the maximum allowed for a chosen wash cycle. The spin cycle can also be completely excluded.

Additional functions enhance the washing process. The Delay Timer allows users to set a delayed start for the programme, useful for scheduling washes at convenient times. The Eco Time function adjusts drum rotation, temperature, and water levels for reduced loads of lightly soiled cotton and synthetic fabrics, saving water and electricity. The Energy Saver function washes laundry without heating the water, relying on intensified wash action and water optimization for good results while saving energy.

The machine incorporates a load balancing system that rotates the drum at a slightly higher speed before each spin cycle to distribute the load evenly, minimizing vibrations and noise. If the load remains unbalanced after several attempts, the machine will spin at a reduced speed or perform the distribution process instead of spinning to prevent damage. Mixing small and large garments in the load is recommended for improved balance.

Maintenance Features

Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficient operation of the Indesit IWD 71451. The manual outlines several key maintenance tasks:

Cutting off water and electricity supplies: After each wash cycle, turning off the water tap helps limit wear on the hydraulic system and prevents leaks. The machine should always be unplugged before cleaning or any maintenance work.
Cleaning the washing machine: The exterior and rubber components can be cleaned with a soft cloth soaked in lukewarm soapy water. Solvents or abrasives should not be used.
Cleaning the detergent dispenser drawer: The drawer should be removed by raising and pulling it out, then washed under running water. This should be done frequently to prevent detergent buildup.
Caring for the door and drum: Leaving the porthole door ajar after use helps prevent unpleasant odours from forming inside the drum.
Cleaning the pump: The machine has a self-cleaning pump that generally requires no maintenance. However, small items might fall into the pre-chamber. To access it, the cover panel on the lower front part of the machine needs to be removed using a screwdriver. The lid of the pre-chamber is then unscrewed anti-clockwise, the inside is cleaned thoroughly, and the lid and panel are re-secured. This should only be done after the wash cycle has finished and the appliance is unplugged.
Checking the water inlet hose: The inlet hose should be checked at least once a year for cracks. If cracks are found, the hose must be replaced immediately, as high water pressure during wash cycles could cause it to split. Only new hoses should be used for replacement.

The manual also provides troubleshooting tips for common issues, such as the machine not switching on, not starting a wash cycle, not filling with water, continuous filling and draining, not draining or spinning, poor heating, prolonged programme times, or excessive vibrations during the spin cycle. These tips guide users through simple checks and solutions before contacting technical assistance. For instance, if the machine is noisy, some motor, pump, and drum noise during spin is normal. If the machine won't spin properly, it might be due to an unbalanced load, and users are advised to try the programme again with a different load. Leaks from the dispenser might indicate a blocked drawer or high water pressure, while other leaks could be due to loose or damaged hoses. Rapidly flashing indicator lights often suggest a temporary fault that can be resolved by switching the machine off and on again. Unpleasant smells can be addressed by running a service wash at 90°C with detergent and no laundry. The door will only open after the door lock indicator light goes out, typically a few minutes after the programme ends.