Saturday 28 May 2011

HOTPOINT AQUALTIS NOISY SPIN DAMAGE REVEALED

THE BANGING NOISES ON SPIN CYCLE WERE INEVITABLE

(THIS A FOLLOW ON FROM MY PREVIOUS POST " AQUALTIS 9D SPIN PROBLEMS" where there are many more comments from viewers)
The story continued..........  Well, the Hotpoint Engineer turned up, on time, and with the correct replacement drum and counterweight for our Hotpoint Aqualtis 9D washing machine - can't fault that at least!

After dismantling and re-assembling the machine he packed his tools and left, leaving behind the old drum and front counterweight because, in his words, "we don't dispose of parts anymore, that's down to you". Oh well, hey ho, at least it gave me the chance to have a better look at the damage to the drum and the concrete counterweight that caused the damage, (because I'm a bit of a geek who likes to know how things work........ or not as the case may be).

Here is a closer shot of the counterweight mounting lugs, on the drum assembly, that were damaged by the counterweight as it 'disintegrated' resulting in the securing bolts vibrating loose and falling out.

                                                   (Click on picture to enlarge)
From examining the counterweight locating lugs more closely, it was quite evident that the damage had been done over a reasonable period of time and, bearing in mind that the washing machine is only just over 12 months old, my guess is that the counterweight problem has existed pretty much since the machine first started to be used.

So, what about the front counterweight that caused the problem?  Well, almost any concrete moulding has embedded metal reinforcement rods to give the concrete 'strength', and this counterweight is no exception. But as any structural engineer will tell you, metal reinforcement requires an adequate 'covering' of concrete, otherwise the reinforcement is doing nothing to strengthen concrete. So with this in mind, have a look at this picture of the front counterweight that was fitted into our machine.

                                                   (Click on picture to enlarge)
 Now tell me if YOU think that the metal reinforcement has sufficient cover and whether it is providing any strength to the counterweight moulding!!!!  I think not - it's barely 2mm below the surface of the moulding. This is clearly a manufacturing problem and, to be fair, this counterweight didn't stand a hope in hells chance of staying in one piece.

So there we have it, a counterweight doomed to early failure, and the resultant damage to the drum assembly. And all in a washing machine that is only just over 12 months old.

Be aware, if your Hotpoint Aqualtis washing machine becomes noisy, particularly when in the spin cycle, you may have a similar problem, so call an engineer before any considerable damage is caused.

145 comments:

  1. hi , my aqualtis wasing machine is 2yrs old , had it mended in march , counter weights and drum replaced then . now at the end of june same thing has happened again

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    1. Hi My aqualtis is now 3 years old but in the first year had new drum and new programmer, then all the paddles inside drum fell off during a wash cycle that contained cashmere jumpers and delicates and ripped them all to shreds! engineer came and replaced them, now one has fallen off again and ruined a shirt of my sons! starting to get that banging noise on spin again, which is probably the counterwights agin, ENOUGH! I have just ordered a Miele washing mashine and this heap of junk can get lost!!

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  2. this washing machine was 700 pound , not good enogh i think

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  3. Rob m
    Ichanged front counter weight on my aqualtis aq9d last week because it had broken up. Iwaited 4 weeks for it to be deliverd. It worked for four days and now top weight has broken up and destroyd the drum. Im am not paying £700 for a washing machine to last 18 months and i have to pay for it to be repaird because its a design / product fault

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  4. Hi Rob - I think you'll find that you've ALREADY paid the £700 for the washing machine!!
    Seriously though, it really isn't good enough, is it? You would think that Hotpoint would be embarassed enough to replace these damaged counterweights FREE OF CHARGE, (similar to a recall), and with re-designed/manufactured counterweights that are not so evidently faulty.
    These machines cannot be seen as 'Fit for Purpose' and it's time that Hotpoint did something about it. Maybe it should be Watchdog here we come!

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  5. We have the same machine that is 18 months old and the front counter weight has broken in half. We have contacted the supplier and they are saying that as it is out of Guarantee they are not prepared to do anything about it!!! I think this is a case for Watchdog..

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  6. Hi Troy, Sorry to hear that YOU are the next Aqualtis 'victim'. Hotpoint's attitude towards the defective counterweights really beggars belief.
    I did register this problem with Watchdog,(on their website), about 6 months ago, but I didn't hear any more about it. Perhaps you'd like to register it as well at, www.bbc.co.uk/watchdog/gotastory/
    If more people register the same story, maybe Watchdog will take up the challenge.
    Thanks again for your feedback.

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  7. I have just found the same problem with my machine. To be fair we have had it 3yrs and the thing has never stopped due to the fact that we have had twin babies for 2.5 of those. Still rubbsih design though, the fixing lugs should be made of something stronger than plastic i.e. metal castings. A more robust design is needed

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  8. Hi Anonymous - Be grateful that your Aqualtis has lasted 3 years - That must be close to a record if other reader's comments are anything to go by, but yes I agree, the design is still rubbish. The plastic lugs are probably man enough all the time that the counterweight is in one piece and held firmly in place, but once broken/loose, these mega heavy counterweights would most likely damage even a metal lug beyond repair. The poorly manufactured counterweights are the real enemy - When will Hotpoint wake up to this fact.

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    1. Hi all.
      My "top of the range"new washing machine has lasted an amazing 4 years. But now, surprise surprise the "quiet" appliance sounds like a tractor. Surprise number 2 is that it is terminal. No more hotpoint appliances for my household.

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  9. I work for hotpoint and probably do about 1 a month if that, so it IS NOT a common problem im afraid, ive had mine since 2006 and not had any problems.

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    1. your just one engineer and you do 1 a month thats called a common problem my friend... now stop brownnoseing.

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    2. You're obviously trying to become a manager at Hotpoint!! Shame on you for defending such rubbish machines. The sad part of all this is the old original Hotpoint stuff was excellent and the people who have had the old stuff for 20+yrs assume they're buying the same quality when they replace their old appliances. Why do you think Indesit bought the Hotpoint brand? Yes, to take advantage of their great reputation. Sadly Merloni(Indesit) will soon drag it down in to the gutter.

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  10. Dear Mr Hotpoint Engineer, thank you for your 'post'. However, it was rather like red rag to all those Aqualtis customers who have visited my blog, and who have suffered the inconveniences due to this obvious design 'weakness'. You did rather set yourself up for the comment by 'Anonymous'(20th October), and he/she DOES have a point! One a month multiplied by the number of active Hotpoint Engineers is not exactly a record to be proud of.

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  11. I used to work for hotpoint as an engineer and these new style welded drums are such a cheap design,not only do they disintergrate but also once the bearings start to rumble (12-18 months with normal family use)its a full new tub, bring back the WMA split style drum hotpoint instead of these disposable cheap welded drum units.

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  12. Thanks for your contribution Anonymous. Useful comments.

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  13. wow what interesting reading, a year ago I bought a new aqualtis direct from hotpoint because my two yr old example decided its PCBs needed replacing (cheaper to buy a replacement) then this evening as its winding up for full spin bangin noise followed by almost immediate boucing across the floor to next door, only thing stopping its getaway was the block of concrete laying on the floor underneath, another one bites the dust. dont know if im lucky or not yet but last month Hotpoint flogged me a domestic and general warranty because my twelve months warranty was nearly up (it is now) so will be ringing them in the morning.

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  14. Thanks Anonymous - Unbelievable....... you bought this only one year ago and the counterweights are STILL exploding despite the fact that Hotpoint must have been well aware of the problem when your machine was manufactured. Basically, they've done nothing to resolve the problem, and customers are still suffering the inconvenience.
    I sincerely hope that you get it fixed under your extended warranty, especially if, like my machine, you also need a complete new drum assembly !!!

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  15. Have the Aqualtis AQ9D69i. Already been repaired once (back in April/May when it was 11 Months old). Now exactly same problem and they are saying that I have to pay for the engineer to come out! It just bounced across the floor last night, held in by the plug and hose at the back. Putting it back into place and there is a nice bolt, complete with the plastic still in it's thread, on the floor!

    Going to see about buying a replacement and then taking them to small claims for cost of replacement and to pick this piece of junk up.

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    1. I had asked to speak to the customer service rep's Manager when I was speaking to them this morning but one wasn't available at the time. Manager has just called me back about my complaint and offered a free of charge repair. Engineer due out on Wednesday. Result!

      If he hadn't offered to do it for free I would have gone further. I do think it would be interesting to test the validity of '5 year parts guarantee but you have to pay for engineer call-out fees.' Only problem is that under the Sales of Goods Act 1979 I would be required to take this up with the retailer rather than the Manufacturer. Not sure how this would be affected by the fact that it was the Manufacturer who replaced the part which subsequently failed again??

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    2. A result indeed Daryl - well done. Is this due to a display of a 'guilty conscience'on behalf of the manufacturer I wonder, and yes, the Sale of Goods Act 1979 etc. can be confusing under these circumstances.
      Hope it all gets sorted out before Christmas......... Happy Christmas.

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  16. Oh Boy, Sorry to receive yet another tale of disaster.
    If you DO take this to the small claims court, it would be very interesting to hear if you win the day.
    Perhaps the catalogue of disasters listed by customers on this blog might be good evidence for the court, concerning this machine not being fit for purpose???
    Let us all know how you get on Daryl, and thanks for taking the time to add your comments to the blog.

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  17. Hi we have the Aqualtis AQ9D and yet again the wife noticed it has started to make a banging noise again,as I took out a D&G insurance roughly 12months ago we called them out.
    Yet again engineer looks at it orders parts and leaves leaving us with a useless machine until they come back a couple of weeks later.
    The first time the concrete block fell to bits and a new drum was replaced.This time the engineer lifted it up and noticed a plastic plug was missing and stated it should be a bit better until the parts arrived.
    The machine is now worse than ever and a day later it virtually shook itself to death and dust and bits from the block was present.Notice the pattern,as stated on previous comments this machine has some serious design faults
    I am not one to easily buy items on impulse and after shopping around,reading various comments we thought we had invested in a decent machine/manufacture,it had the looks,spec everything I would now consider next time buying the cheapest machine and change them every time they pack up.

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    1. Hi Geoff........ What can I say?
      Why do these things always seem to happen when you least need it, and do these things really need to happen at all?
      "Happy Xmas from the Aqualtis design team" !!!........ (and welcome to the throwaway society).

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  18. iv payed 900 quid for a 9kg hotpoint 5 months and the counterweight falls out not happy :( :( :(

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  19. I've got nearly 30yrs experience as a service engineer and the machines that now have the Hotpoint badge on them are absolutely disgraceful. I've recently stopped doing contract work for Hotpoint/Indesit as I was fed up of working on rubbish. All the managers are interested in is their engineers selling accessories to the customer. There is currently a safety update being carried out by Hotpoint to replace hundreds of faulty drums after one exploded through a worktop on the spin cycle and narrowly missed a small child. DO NOT BUY HOTPOINT/INDESIT MACHINES, THEY ARE THE SAME MACHINES. You have been warned

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  20. Hey is someone know how to remove the front of aqualtis?

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  21. I'm afraid I don't know the answer myself, but maybe another reader will be able to help.
    Personally, I'd use a pickaxe !!! (It might be worth looking at You Tube).
    Cheers

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  22. somebody out there has found a way of repairing or replacing the sealed drums in aqualtisis!! i wonder how they do it?

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  23. Model AQ9D69S about 3 years old, as a direct result of reading the info here, I found the bottom weight loose. Easy to tighten up the 3 bolts with Torx 40 from underneath the machine. Noise problem at 1600 rpm cured. I believe our weight was saved from breaking up because i looked quickly after 1 day. Thank you very much for this information......the power of the internet!

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    1. Hi Anonymous,
      I can't tell you how pleased I am that this blog may have just saved you the hassle of a more serious 'breakdown'. If I have saved ONE reader from grief, then I'm more than happy. Thank you for your kind comments and taking the time to leave a note. As you say... Internet rules OK!

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  24. Our AQ9D69I is making a loud banging noise. Had it 2.5 yrs and was looking to buy a replacement drum. Not after reading the comments here though. What a disgrace I will never buy Hotpoint again. Crazy business model!!

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    1. Thanks Anonymous - If the previous comments on this blog have helped you to make a considered decision as to whether to replace or 'dump', then it's done it's job!

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  25. Just found this very interesting blog . Our Aqualtis AQ9D 69 U is about three years old & has recently become very noisy on spin so today I stopped it 16 minutes before it finished the final spin....just as well ! Pulled it out & low & behold there is block/weight rubble on the floor from the front weight . Reckon I may have saved the drum from damage . I will contact Hotpoint to see if they have any comment regarding this problem . I don't know why they don't metal weights as per our previous Zanussi machine . Can anyone advise me how to replace the front weight on my machine . I would imagine it'a a case of laying it on it's back to access from underneath . Thank you Smugdane for keeping this going > Well Done !!

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    1. Sorry to learn that you are another 'victim' Johnsy. Hopefully you did the right thing by stopping the spin cycle, and hopefully you might be right about saving the drum.
      It would be very interesting to know what Hotpoint's response is when you contact them !!!!
      Personally I don't actually know how to replace the front counterweight, but try this YouTube link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hZPFnDb3so (you might have to copy and paste it into your search engine). Although the counterweight replacement 'tutorial' isn't on the exact same machine as yours, it probably applies to many Hotpoint models, so probably worth a try, and a lot easier than getting the machine out and putting it on its back - Good Luck !!!

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    2. Hi Smugdane . I phoned Hotpoint technical dept.to request info regarding replacing the front counterweight as a diy project . Spoke to a completely unhelpful female advisor who seemed programmed to keep repeating the same question regarding the model number . She was adamant it was on the front of the machine , which it isn't. I asked to speak to someone in the technical department regarding replacing the weight: ie , a service engineer. She said she was a technical advisor . She then said it was not a diy job & suggested it should be inspected by a Hotpoint engineer .I gave up trying to talk to her , not because she was female just through exasperation !! She offered to connect me to their service dept. who were more than helpful . The chap agreed that it may not be a diy job & in his opinion the bearing might have "gone" . The last ,I personally do not believe ! He suggested a couple of options regarding service : 1) £110 call out fee & 1 hour time + parts with a 3 month warranty.2) A 1 year service contract at £14.95 per month to include callout, time & parts . This to include a 12 month warranty on repairs .After discussion with my wife we decided to go for the second option not that we wanted to enter into a HP situation but thought that if the bearing has gone or the drum is damaged it might be the safer option . Strangely enough , my wife has just been talking to our daughter & her Indesit machine is making terminal noises as well!! I believe they also use these cement counterweights as per the Hotpoint .Both machines are about three years old !We are won dering if 1600 revs spin-speed is too much for the cement block system to withstand . As I said metal weights must be a better option . I don't knoew if you watched "Watchdog" tonight (Wed)but on next week's edition the subject of Hotpoint & Indesit W/Ms is coming up . It showed a quick flash of the weights on the machines !!!!Now THAT will be interesting !!!! By the way , thanks for the tip on youtube : have yet to watch that . I notice you seem to have two blogs on the go running concurrently ! Keep em going . Johnsy .

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    3. Hi again Johnsy - Thank you for your very detailed update, which was very interesting.
      By the way, I did see Watchdog, and I too am really looking forward to watching it next week. I bet they'll have some 'Hotpoint Spokesman' who'll get away with the usual corporate excuses used on Watchdog, you know........ "we take these complaints very seriously, (and then ignore them!)......... "we have sold millions of these machines, so a few complaints is a very small percentage of our customers, (who we don't really give a damn about once we've got their money anyway!)....
      Like yourself, I shall be watching with interest.

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  26. How do I gain access to fit new seal on aqualtis

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    1. Hi Anonymous - For obvious reasons I'm glad to say that I'm NOT a Hotpoint engineer, but that doesn't help YOU, because, (as I'm not an engineer), I simply don't know the answer to your question.
      However, there are quite a few videos on YouTube, such as, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hZPFnDb3 (you might have to copy and paste this link into your search engine), so all I can really suggest is that you have a trunk around YouTube and you might just find some guidance there. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

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  27. Noticed these on offer the other day via the Very catologue, after reading this blog, I won't be buying, yikes!

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    1. Hi Adam, I'm glad you found the blog comments useful. Hopefully you may just have been saved from your worst nightmare!

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  28. Does anyone know if this is a problem with all the Aqualtis range

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  29. Hi Phil,
    Not sure that I can answer this query, as I can only speak from experience of my own Aqualtis9D model, but from the comments that have been posted on this blog, there DO seem to be similar problems with other models, and Indesit equivelents (also Hotpoint!). I can only really suggest that before purchasing any particular make/model, you do some thorough customer reviews research online. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

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  30. Smugdane.
    Thank you for your brilliant blog. Thanks to this Blog I have averted damage to my aqualtis machine which also started to make the noise of death. I believe I may be one of the lucky ones as I was able to put the machine on its back to access the bottom counterweight and tighten the loose bolts with a socket spanner. All seems fine so far.

    Mat

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  31. Hi Mat - I'm delighted that you found this blog and hope that it may have saved you a great deal more damage and expense. From now on you'll probably get jumpy every time you hear a bit of a 'rumble', but at least you'll have some idea what it might be. Good luck.

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  32. My Aqualtis AQM8F washer dryer- a replacement just over a year ago from Domestic and General started making knocking noise six months in. I assumed that it was something to do with balance and adjusted the feet. Called engineer who told me it was the heating element causing the rattle and replaced it. Two weeks later the next engineer lifted the machine to show grey powder and chunks of concrete under the machine. He declared it unfit for use and am currently waiting three weeks for parts - new drum and base weight. Engineer's report says nothing about the failure of the weight. Cost £12 on phonecalls to complain to Indesit who passed it to DOMGEN and back again - neither are willing to replace the machine - does not warrant it, according to Indesit CSD. I tried very hard to get them to understand the catastrophic failure of the design and did not want it my house - no-one is listening - do not buy Aqualitis - poor inferior non-UK product, engineers feckless, domestic and general rude and only interested in your money. £780 in total paid and it's a heap of junk.

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    1. Hi Anonymous - It really saddens me that people, like yourself, are STILL suffering the inconvenience brought about by this defect, after so many years that it has been known about. What's the matter with these manufacturers? Why can't they admit the fault and do something about it? ..... (It's like you say, grab the customer's money and run!!)

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  33. I too have a problem with the cement blocks and the drum, both have failed twice in a year and am now waiting for another drum to arrive. I will pass on to my husband about checking the weights as soon as we start to hear the now familiar noisey spinning cycle.
    I was already wondering how in this day and age they can still use cement blocks to counter weight washing machines!!!

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  34. I guess it's all down to cost... cement counterweights are probably cheap to manufacture! Unfortunately, it's consumers like ourselves that ultimately end up paying the price.

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  35. OMG! I cannot believe all of these posts...was searching for info on Google as the concrete block has fallen out of my Aqualtis and ruptured the drain-off pipe causing the kitchen to flood, my floor is a write off! Well, it seems the cement blocks coming loose is a common problem. Come on Watchdog, help us all out!

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  36. Hi Anonymous - you're the first case of damage to a house, (on this post at least), as a result of the dreaded cement counterweight defect. As you say, come on Watchdog! - Actually, I've submitted this to Watchdog previously, although they obviously didn't want to take on the case, but I think I'll submit it again and see what happens. However, as I've said previously, even if Watchdog DO take this on, it doesn't help all those who've already suffered the problems, but it might just help to avoid hassle for future owners!

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  37. hi smugdane
    been having some scary noises coming from my aqualtis washing machine too, it sounds like something is loose inside like a knocking,rattling, scraping sort of sound hard to explain. had a look but cant see anything so my partner is going to have a look underneath after reading ur blog, and ive had it about a year. I had an indesit washing machine before which also had a million problems eventually got my money back and half the insurance back that I paid after a lot of stress and arguing with DOMESTIC AND GENERAL. I felt they were useless and was gutted when I realised hotpoint and indesit were the same company as I now again have insurance with them. anyway can anyone tell me if that were the same noises coming from there machines which were due to counterweights etc thanku :)

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    1. Hi Anonymous, Mmmmm... not sure if I can be very helpful. The noise that I experienced when the counterweight started to 'decompose', was an increasingly loud banging noise when the machine was in the spin cycle.... Bang.. Bang.. Bang.. Bang.. Bang.. Bang.... a bit like one bang per drum revolution, so the faster the spin, the faster and louder the banging got. Also, the machine was trying to walk across the room. This was because the drum was now totally out of balance. You're description sounds more like the drum bearings are shot. open the washing machine door, and see if there's excessive 'play' in the drum, e.g. does it move up and down to a significant extent? If it does, then bearings are definitely suspect. Beyond that, I regret to say that it definitely sounds like a job for an engineer, before matters get any worse. Good luck. Personally, I'll never buy Hotpoint or Indesitever again!

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  38. Hello I have a Hotpoint 960 something purchased 04/11, paddles replaced 5 months later. became very noisy and needed new drum as it broke in 06/12. became noisy on sunday 08/09/13 then went bang crash jump, front counterweigh sheered off from drum and split in 3 parts whoooops. Rang Hotpoint they are sending engineer free of charge to ASSES THE MACHINE. my opinion is that its been a faulty one right from word go and should be replaced. what do you lot think ??

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    1. Yes.... but don't hold your breath, just remember that you're dealing with Hotpoint AKA "we don't give a monkey's after the guarantee expires".

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  39. I think I have the same problem and was wondering if it is worth getting a new drum or just buy a new washing machine how much was it to replace the drum and the labour?

    Thanks

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    1. Hi Anonymous - Not an easy one to answer I'm afraid. If you DO have the same problem, you might find that there's nothing wrong with the drum, and simply fitting a new front counterweight should do the trick, unless it's some other totally unrelated problem like the drum bearings are shot! However, if it IS counterweight related and the 'lugs' on the drum (which hold the concrete counterweight), are damaged, then a counterweight AND drum will be necessary. It all depends upon how much damage has been caused. Unfortunately I don't have any current prices for a new drum or counterweight - (I'm not a washing machine engineer, just someone whose suffered the problems with this machine), but you'll probably find some prices quite easily on the web. - As for whether to repair or replace, that's very much for you to decide, but as these are pretty expensive machines, and generally it seems only to be these stupid counterweights that are the problem, it could well be worth forking out to repair the machine, because the spares can often be bought at a fairly low price, but that's just a personal view. Sorry I can't be much more help, but I hope you can use the pics that I posted to establish if you just need a counterweight or a drum as well. - Good luck

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  40. I have had my 11kg Aqualtis for just under 2 years. Paid very good money for it and it has now a fault that blows the whole circuit in the house. I have an engineer coing out tomorrow to look at it but I was wondering if anyone has had a similar issue. I do not know if it was making any noise as the electrics all went when I was in the shower on that occasion.

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    1. Hi Anonymous - sounds more like an electrical fault on your machine rather than anything to do with the problems that are the subject of THIS blog, but I'm sure that other Aqualtis users would be interested to know what the Hoptpoint Engineer's diagnosis was, so perhaps you could add a further 'Comment' on this page once you know the result! - Cheers

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  41. hi my daughters Aqualtis washing machine has been making a lot of vibration noise when spinning up to the level where you could not hear yourself think ,i found the drum bearings had failed, inner bearing collapsed so after discovering there are 2 types of drum, one that you can split in half and change bearings and one thats plastic seam welding i found mine to be the welded one. I am an engineer by trade for 40 yrs now so decided to strip and fit a new drum myself, really easy job if you put your mind to it. Although when i had put it back together it has a banging noise when getting up to 800 revs upwards. Tried repositioning the support springs and shock absorber positions and even put new springs/shocks on, still the same. Both concrete weights looked in good condition so transferred them over when i rebuilt it. After reading all these comments im going to have to check the lower concrete block isnt slightly loose as im totally at the end of my tether trying to work out where the vibration is coming from. Daughter is considering ditching this piece of trash and buying another machine. - nick goodrum

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    1. Hi Nick - After all your repair work it seems such a shame to consider ditching the machine, but I think that a lot of this blog's 'readers' would share your daughter's views! Sadly there's not really much more one can say.

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  42. well i have to report i have had total success in fixing the problem. I have had this washing machine on its side more times than you can shake a stick at and when i leaned it over this time there was cement dust/fragments on the floor, none seen before. When i removed the front lower cement block from under the front of the machine ( 3 x T40 torx screws hold in place ) from the tapered posts on the drum body i found the holes worn slightly on the cement block and a large crack through the middle of the block with the metal reinforcing rods exposed, also the plastic posts on the new plastic tub i fitted had worn because of the vibration. Well i ordered a new block from hotpoint around £25 delivered to my door, mounted the new block on the drums posts and found it to be slightly loose ( it should be a snug fit on those tapered posts ) so i wrapped a stiff adhesive fibre woven tape a number of rotations tightly onto each post until after 4-5 attempts the block became a good fit on the tapers. When i refitted the 3 screws i added a large thin washer to each bolt (2.5" across approx ) to give a greater surface grip, the concrete is not flat around the bolt holes so by using a thin washer it flexe's enough to add grip as it contour's itself to the shape of the concrete block without damaging it . After running it up to 1000 revs the difference is amazing. I will recheck the 3 torx bolt tightness in around 4 weeks time to make sure it hasnt settled.
    A WORD OF ADVISE IF YOU DO TRY TO REPLACE THE CEMENT BLOCK
    Its a very heavy item to lift into place and i did it with difficulty without removing the drain off rubber hose from the bottom of the drum but if you arent built like me (big muscles) then drain off the water and disconnect the pipe from the drum and move it out of the way, it would be so much easier and safer.
    Overall stripping out his machine and fitting any of the parts was really very easy, even the whole drum wasnt that hard and if you arent too confident then take lots of digital photos of every area of the machine so you go back and check where everything goes when you rebuild it and of course shut of the water and electrical supply too before you start work. Hope this helps someone else. Nick G
    If i can help anyone - e.mail me on n.r.g@tesco.net

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    1. Nice one Nick - Thanks for posting such a detailed and enlightening response. I'm sure that ther will be readers out there who will benefit from your own experiences.

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  43. My Hotpoint Aqualtis only 8 months old, shook itself to pieces after break dancing across the floor, leaving a trail of water in its wake.

    This was a replacement machine for a previous Hotpoint break down after 10 months, and so I am not holding my breath this one when it arrives will last even a year, but at least it isn't going to cost me like the last one did as they kept trying to repair it until the warranty ran out! Then said it wasn't covered any more! Mistake I made was to buy a replacement from them.

    This time my machine flashed an odd fault code F6, so Hotpoint suggested I would need to buy an extended warranty as the guarantee doesn't cover blocked pumps caused by user errors.

    I looked under the machine and the concrete blocked was shatterred in pieces and there were broken springs and plastic bits all over the place.

    The drum, pump and concrete block all damaged and the entire machine needed gutting - however the repair man said it is fixable! Yup anything can be gutted and rebuilt, but it would take 2 weeks to get the parts and get fitted.

    The call centre even when he told them the extent of the reoair needed said they never replace a machine on a first call out.

    4 and half hours on the phone, 45 calls when engaged and cut off, 17 calls being sent round the houses, eventually a customer services handler with a brain saw the extent of parts ordered - ie an entire machine, and eventually agreed to a replacement.

    The moral of the story is don't listen to their crap, if your machine implodes, don't just live with it, and maybe save yourself the hassle and buy something else!

    Merry Xmas all

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    Replies
    1. OMG!! - It's really no wonder that these machines are so expensive if Hotpoint now have to factor in the cost of so many repairs and replacements. Perhaps 'expensive' no longer signifies 'quality' but reflects the extent of repairs that will be required to an appliance throughout it's remarkably short life. On this basis, maybe 'cheaper' is now what signifies reliability when purchasing appliances? I hope to goodness that no poor unsuspecting guy has bought their loved one an Aqualtis for Christmas! Ho Ho Ho!

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  44. Antony
    Hi all. Have just been reading this forum and was astounded at how many people have this problem with aqualtis. I've got a aqgd169s and had it about 5 years now and it's recently been making a horrendous noise on spin. Checked my front counterweight and sure enough 2 of the bolts were loose. Have tightened them up and am doing a cycle right now. Fingers crossed it's worked. Won't buy hotpoint again

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    1. Hi Antony - I'm glad that this blog pointed you in the right direction and I hope that tightening the bolts will solve your problem.

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  45. Having done a load of washing it seems to have solved the problem. I nearly bought a new washing machine but am so glad I found this forum first. Saved me a fortune. :)

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  46. I hava an engineer coming out tomorrow: same thing really loud on spin and then yesterday a big bang and grey cement all over the floor!

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  47. So sorry to hear that you're yet another victim! You'd think that after nearly 3 years of this fault occuring, Hotpoint/Indesit would have resolved the defect.

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  48. Hi Smugdane, thank you for your blog. I've had mine for 18 months and the noise of death has pretty much always been there. And today it died, at least though I can see a- it was going to happen and b- there's no point trying to fix it. Very comforting in a strange sort of way. So any recoomendations on what I should be buying ??

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous - Sorry to hear of your sad loss!!! I'm not really in any position to make recommendations as to what you should be buying now, but do as much research on the net as you can.... check reviews and then come to your best conclusions. Just bear in mind that many of the different brands out there are owned by the same company, e.g Hotpoint is also Indesit and Creda! All three are probably made in the same factory using identical components etc., so do bear this in mind.
      Maybe if any other readers of this blog have had a 'good purchase' experience they may offer up some advice, but internet research, and plenty of it, will probably point you in the right direction. - Good luck.

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  49. hi we have an aqualtis 9 and we are having the same problem so loud on final spin. i phoned hotpoint and asked them why they hadn't done anything to rectify this and they said there is not a problem. i said there is when there are so many machines its happening to, they said compaired to the amount of machines we sell it its very few. i told them i was going to cab and trading stanards and they weren't interested. last time i but hotpoint.

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    1. Thanks for your input Anonymous - That just about says it all about how Hotpoint treat their customers, doesn't it..... 'nough said!!

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  50. had mine 4yrs, after reading everyone's comments repairing it would be false economy so im off to buy a completely different brand of machine.

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    1. An extremely wise move I would suggest Rebecca!! However, as I've mentioned previously, beware of different 'makes' all actually being from the same manufacturer,(and therefore likely to have the same faults) e.g. Hotpoint = Indesit etc etc.

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  51. I bought an Aqualtis in October 2012 and it worked fine until April this year, but since then I've had nothing but trouble with it. Started with it not drying, then stopped working altogether. Had to have new mother board and heater, had them out twice because it was noisy. Had counter weight replaced on Friday last week, now heater has packed up again so that's another call out. Costing a fortune in time off work, phone calls and visits to launderette. Fortunately I have extended warranty which is a god send. Dread to think how much it would cost for repairs if I didn't have cover.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous - Many thanks for sharing your own experiences. It's a sad reflection upon today's 'quality' that we have to pay extra for extended warranties to cover ourselves but, as demonstrated, this has saved you a significant cost in parts and labour, (but no warranty covers all the time that has to be taken off work and the inconvenience caused!)

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  52. I am absolutely gobsmacked by all these comments, had my aqaultis about 4 yrs now, exact same problem happened after about 2 yrs and I took out the domestic and general insurance and had it repaired, its now deciding to have a munch on my clothes hence me googling problems, am really not happy and definitely wont be buying hotpoint again, I had less problems with my old budget washer, only bought the aqualtis for the bigger drum due to having an autistic child who still wasnt toilet trained at the time. Shame on you hotpoint!

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    1. Hi Anonymous - Thanks for taking the time to add your own feedback. As you rightly say... "Shame on you Hotpoint!"

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  53. After two years of use my new machine sounds like a helicopter taking off , another once loyal hotpoint customer lost !

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    1. Hi Anonymous - and thanks for your comment.

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    2. Had the same problem, luckily stopped using the machine before concrete explosion, bought it through John Lewis and they will replace the whole machine for another make.

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    3. Wow - You're VERY lucky Anonymous - Hurrah for John Lewis!

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  54. I was looking to buy one of these ,have always had hotpoint washing machines but not anymore.A big thankyou to you all.

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    1. Hi Anonymous - I'm glad that you may have found this blog useful in helping to make your choice of new washing machine.

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    2. After having an 11kg Aqualtis for 2 yrs, we got our first fault, door wouldn't open and F5 error on the screen, this was quickly fixed, then our problems began.
      The washer started tripping the electrics in the house, we took out the extended domestic and general cover, engineer came out and fixed the fault( Feb 14) since then, the same fault occurred another 5 times, a senior engineer was finally sent out only to tell us the water was causing the fault (hello, it's a washing machine).
      After the senior engineer visit, the machine was making very loud banging noises (after 2 yrs it sounded like it was taking off but now it sounded like it was being hit by a wrecking ball) then no noise, opened the machine after the spin and everything was still soaking, just had the engineer out today who advised a new drum is required which is in stock and we will get a call to arrange new appointment, got the call and the drum is actually out of stock and they will contact us when it's back in stock, my partners 85 yr old mother lives with us as she needs care and a washer is essential so here's a message for Hotpoint and they're overpriced not fit for purpose washing machines @#$/=×##$@ talk about a rogue trader

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  55. Sorry to hear about your problems Anonymous... I sympathise.... it's just one problem after another for readers of this Blog!

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  56. my counter weight front went on my Hotpoint aqulitis replaced it in time the holding lugs were ready for bracking not happy now I have found out this is a fault with this model?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous - Glad you caught it in time :)

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  57. My machine starting knocking and then started really knocking and then was at the stage where I was having scream over it .. we have ordered and changed the springs and shocks and then found this post and my husband is as we speak inside it trying to tighten what we have now discovered to be loose weight bolts. In fairness it was slightly better after the change of shocks and springs and only really shouts on the 1600 spin. But we'll have a go before thinking about new drums and weights.... also just thought it would be worth mentioning I brought the machine in June 2007 when they very first came out. I have never had it serviced or done anything else to it till now, and we moved house with it ( transport brackets fitted during move) so if we can't fix it.. I'd say at least we got our monies worth :)... p.s he's tightened the one bolt that was loose and we have tried it and no noise so fingers crossed fixed for a bit longer

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    1. Hi Anonymous - Thanks for leaving your comments and I hope that you found this blog helpful.

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  58. Andy Basically ditto, Same conern with a machine that is 54 weeks old!! Yes missed the twelve month gaurantee by two weeks, This is the third hot point first continuos concerns. second one concrete weight problen (13 mounth old) lucky I purchased from Costco, five year auto replacement no questions asked. Now this one!

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    1. Hi Anonymous - Thanks for sharing your own experiences - as always it helps other readers to reach their own conclusions as to what makes and models of washing machine to purchase or avoid!

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  59. Has anyone thought of casting a new counterweight?
    I don't think it would be that difficult to do if you caught the old weight before it broke up. You can get Nylon fibres that are added to concrete to give reinforcement, this would give a more uniform reinforcement to the weight and maybe would stop it from breaking up....A bit extreme I know , but better than being faced with an expensive repair that isn't going to work by all accounts!


    Has anyone looked at the posibility of cutting open the welded tub so as to access the drum for bearing replacement? I've read it can be done on some machines but as yet haven't found any examples.

    Regards

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous - Probably beyond the scope of anyone other than accomplished DIYers with an inventive mind and reasonable workshop facilities, but interesting thoughts all the same!

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  60. Hi,
    Yeah as you say it probably is beyond the scope of most people and it's not something you should have to do, as the machine should be fit for purpose.

    I found a couple of videos on youtube of people cutting open the plastic welded tub on washing machines to replace bearings, so it can be done.
    Would recommend using a one part polyurethane sealant rather than silicone to seal the tub back together.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCBpRSdrK3U

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vgb7xAfH2_w


    Regards

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    Replies
    1. Thanks John - Really helpful information - I'm sure it will help the less faint hearted who are willing to 'have a go'!!

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  61. Wow! the very last post on here.Been trying find how to split a plastic welded tub, I was going to try a Stanley knife to split the tub and hope for the best.I have not had the counterweights breaking up problem, in fact when I stripped the machine they were really secure and tight. I must have got one built by the guy who started his new job that day lol.I,m off to have a look at those vids. Thanks Guys.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for the post Anonymous - Good luck... (NO Stanley knives pleeeease)

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  62. Had a similar problem with the broken counterweight on an AQ9D, as usual just out of warranty... Ordered a replacement from e-Spares which turned up the next day but with the crack already in it. Espares replaced it immediately with no fuss and the next one was fine. It lasted for about a year before disintegrating, this time breaking off the lugs on the drum - same lack of concrete covering the steel. Ordered another one and decided to see if the drum could be repaired in any way, used some car body type 2 pack filler, put a big dollop of filler where the lugs were, fitted the counterweight back then bolted it into place. Remained there ever since, probably as the filler filled all the small gaps and locked the weight in place but now after about another year, the bearings are now grumbling so getting ready to dismantle it again but after reading the earlier posts, I think a replacement is on the cards - not a Hotpoint though.
    Oh, and the screen stops working sometimes and then fixes itself.
    Andy

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous - Thanks for posting a most interesting account of the problems and solutions that you have experienced. I hope any replacement machine gives you a lot less hassle!!!!

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  63. Well after 9 years and a growing family my machine has finally decided to became very loud and out of control when spinning. The amount of comments on this machine I'm surprised that it lasted this long. Don't think I'll bother with replacements, time for a new machine.

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    Replies
    1. Didn't YOU do well Samantha!!!! Obviously manufactured before inferior, (cheap) components were introduced, but nice to hear a positive comment for a change. Thanks

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  64. I wish I had looked into these issues earlier rather than just letting our machine get repaired (multiple times) under a 5 year warranty, which expired last December. Our AQ9D69U has had several repairs for various similar issues but I thought we just had bad luck due to our very high use causing excessive wear and tear. Unfortunately it has now gone from a slight knocking (counterweight?) to the bearings failing in a matter of days. I can feel the drum grind if move it by hand and the seals were burning from friction on the last load before I stopped it. Bad timing for us as it will take us a month to replace it with something decent. Great blog though, nice to see so much information in one place but shame that Hotpoint has been reduced to this.

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  65. Thanks for your comments Dave - definitely sounds like it's time to dump it!

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  66. Another one bites the dust! Our approx. 3-4 year old AQ9D69S started out needing a new circuit board within about 2 months of purchase and frequently needs a full reset when the touch display buttons freeze. A couple of months ago it remained stuck on the spin cycle for a full night but seemingly without any long term damage.
    A few days ago it started to get noisy on the spin, then on Sunday the MCB fused off when the washer went on. Narrowed it down to the heating element so have ddisconnected that and done a couple of cold washes. Literally had a new element in the online shopping cart when the wife rang to say there was a lot of noise and concrete dust coming out of the bottom. Opened it up tonight and it's the front bottom counterweight in three bits held together by the 'reinforcing' rods. I'd be happy to try to replace if only I could get to the blasted screws! I've managed to loosen one and slightly on a second but there's no apparent way of getting to the third. As it is the first two can be accessed because I can move the broken piece of concrete to the side. I don't believe there's any way that I'd be able to get access to get the screws back in if a new whole weight was in place. The front of the machine appears to be spot-welded or attached in some non-removable way to the side frame.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for your post SilveryBawbag... as you say, yet another one bites the dust!

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  67. Hate to say this but for those spending £700+ on a w/m, go for a Miele ... their w/ms are built like tanks and excellent customer service....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous, many thanks for adding your personal recommendation.

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  68. I also have a Hotpoint Aquarius w m p f 722 wash machine not very old and
    yet out of guarantee, there is concrete pieces all over the floor where the machine
    had spun with a great deal of noise and now machine will not work!
    I would like to know if anyone at all has taken Hotpoint to court to claim
    on them, as they are really really selling goods not fit for purpose
    and should be shown up.

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  69. Thanks for your comments Mike. Not sure if anyone has taken Hotpoint to Court, but we did try getting the matter raised by Watchdog, (without much success). Trouble is you're up against the proverbial giants!!

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  70. My old Aqualtis machine was replaced by d&g in March 2015, with an Aqualtis. At 20 months old its now making grating noises and sounding unsafe to use, and Hotpoint insist its chargeable. I will persue them under SOGA but does anyone know why this has never made it to court, seems like a fundamental problem on a whole range of their machines?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Joni, we've tried having a go at Hotpoint, and Watchdog did an article, (about 18 months ago now), but the Hotpoint rep just went on about how there had only been " only a handful of complaints for the thousands of machines sold" etc etc and it got nowhere. I'm sure that there would be a lot of readers who would love to support you and see how you got on if you did pursue this. If you do, I wish you all the best of luck. This Blog is a testament to just how many people have been suffering at the hands of Hotpoint!!

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  71. OMG what a fantastic blog I have aq9d69i and wouldn't you just guess the fault yes the concrete block on the front as shattered I live near Liverpool airport and nearly had an art attack I thought I had a helicopter landed in the utility room I guess I will be shelling out for the new concrete block and hopefully not a new drum I will never purchase anything from Hotpoint or anything to do with that band again keep up the good work and happy New Year lets hope 2016 won't be the start of me shelling out for this wash machine

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for your kind comments Wayne - So sorry that you're yet another Hotpoint 'victim'.

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  72. Hey thought I'd put my experinec in, it took a while to read all the comments, I have a AQ113D697E Hotpoint with steam function, and guess what? I'll save you the time with that, it makes a huge racket (even when you shout you cannot hear yourself)on the spin cycle, So taking previous posts into account, its most probably the concrete and maybe the bearing at a guess. The machine is 2 years old and under the extended warranty the engineer is coming tomorrow. I had no idea the machine is as fault ridden as it is.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for your feedback anonymous! - ... and so it goes on!!!

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  73. I'll let you know, thanks for the blog it has been a real help and eye opener, I can bombard the engineer with shed loads of questions tomorrow and hopefully get him to check everything.......

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  74. Hi we have had this machine for 2 years had first 2 years of constant issues the engineer was that used to coming round we already had his brew ready when he came had everything changed at least 3 times and he has even left us with a replacement drum and door seals and weights for us to sort if it happens again he did contract work for hotpoint and said a lot of the trouble was down to the fact that the shock asborbers underneath were designed for a 8kg drum not the 11kg and did show us on the parts list from hotpoint that there was no legs for 11kg so when you filled machine the shocks would collapse leak grease and trouble would start all over again today as we speak the machine is doing its usual banging noise and is time again for new shocks which I have again had to order and fit myself as they this machine is out of warranty but to be honest I can strip this machine down myself now the amount of times I have assisted engineer with its repairs

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    Replies
    1. Hi Aidy - Thanks for taking the time to update the blog with your very interesting experiences and comments. I'm sure other readers will find this helpful.

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  75. Looks like I'm in the minority here but I have had an Aqualtis AQGL 129PM UK for approx 9 years. With a family with 3 young kids its never stopped.Its now started to get very noisy in the spin cycle. Constant bearing noise rather than the banging some have described here.
    Does any readers know if bearing kits are available and if so where do you get them? Can't see them sold as separate items on internet so starting to think they don't exist and a complete drum swap out needed.

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    Replies
    1. Hi - It's refreshing to hear that an Aqualtis HAS lasted more that a year or two.. nice one.
      With regards bearings, I THINK that you have to buy a complete sealed drum unit, (that's inner and outer drum all assembled and sealed, complete with bearings), but I'm not an engineer or expert, so it might be worth trying to contact Hotpoint or a local Hotpoint Repair Company just to check?

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  76. Ok Thanks for your reply. I've already e mailed hotpoint yesterday with no reply to date. I'm sure they'll be looking big money for a new drum so will check out a few other options.

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  77. Hey, scanned through all your comments, hoping you might be able to help, do you know where the heating element is likely to be located in Aqualtis AQ9L29I machine? Thanks :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi SandraJ - Not sure about the location on the model you've quoted, but you might find the following link to a Youtube video helpful: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rI6yItFjzQs
      (Your will need to copy and paste this link into your browser. It gives a step by step video about replacing a Hotpoint Aqualtis heating element.
      I hope that might help.

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  78. Thank you for your pictures. I could not figure out where the big bolt came from but now i know found the same disaster with loud banging noise after 2 year life.. It is still in one piece but the bolt doesnt hold the weight anymore.. What a rubbish never ever i will buy anything from hotpoint.

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    Replies
    1. I'm afraid that Hotpoint are too big an organisation to care about their customers any more, (as many readers have learnt to their cost). Sorry to hear that you're yet another.

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  79. Good job I found this blog.

    after 10 years of hard labour the Aquitis became noise. I tipped her up and had a feel around found 2 of the 3 concrete support bolts needed a half turn.

    now the machine runs perfectly again.

    Good job I caught it early before the concrete had broken up.

    Happy days

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    Replies
    1. Hurrah - a success story at last! Nice one Grant.

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  80. Hi....The blocks are fine but our aq113d 697 has spewed an oil based black matter (oil/grase/water)all through the load After stripping the top & inspection panel at rear off,it appears to be coming from the drum bearing. When I rotate the drum it sounds as if there is something adrift between the plastic drum casing & the metal drum. Ideas please !!!!!

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    Replies
    1. Yuk! - Sounds to me like a new drum/bearing required, but I'm NOT a qualified Hotpoint engineer so best to seek professional advice on this one.

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  81. Hi folks, Just received (4 weeks ago) replacement Hotpoint Ultima S through D&G after waiting 4 weeks for parts for my old machine which was then deemed beyond repair due to parts not available. I was however really pleased with the new machine, it was quieter and washed well ... until yesterday when the spin became noisy and now the drum seems to have excessive play in it. Just going to call D&G to get an engineer out .... Launderette here I come again!!!!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous.... Whoops! Here we go again. Good old Hotpoint.

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  82. After several years operation here in Hampshire, our Aqualtis 9D drum seized up this afternoon.
    Could barely turn it by hand and movement was very lumpy.
    Took off the back plate to look at the bearing.
    Removed the belt to make sure it was not the motor that was seized. It was the drum. Removed the drum drive pulley to get at the bearing.
    With a 12 inch adjustable spanner I was barely able to turn the drum and it was still very lumpy.
    Turned the machine forward, lying it om it's front, cleaned the bearings and soaked it in WD40 for an hour or so. No change.
    Turned it up the right way and examined the drum through the front door peeling back the rubber seal and checking the gap as the drum was turned.
    Noticed something black at one point.
    Used a long nosed pliars to grab it and tease it out.
    (needed 2 pliars to eventually get it all out).
    It was a sock stuck between thr drum and the tub. Drum is fine now.
    Wash cycle is running fine now.
    I hope the WD40 does not damage my bearings.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Anonymous.... that's so funny. Shame you had to go through so much 'investigation' work to discover it was only a sock!! SO- That's where our socks are all vanishing to. Thanks for taking the time to post this.

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  83. I have an Aqualtis AQ113DA6971UK 11kg cost £549 and is now 2.5 years old. Never been very impressed with it other than the quiet spin when it was brand new - some wash cycles are too hot and shrink clothes, timer does not count down properly and recently the spin cycle has been getting very noisy. Yesterday spin noise was so bad I was literally too frightened to go near the machine to turn it off - then something sounded like it fell off inside and then sounded like it had a brick rolling round inside. Hotpoint wants £23.99/month for 12 months (£288!)to send engineer out on repair or replace basis, or £135 call out fee with only a 90 day repair guarantee, of which I still have to pay £55 if they cannot repair it. Cannot believe such a top end machine has not lasted and I now have a large repair/replace bill. Either way I have an additional £288 to pay on an already expensive machine.

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  84. I agree, it's appalling for such an expensive machine. Lessons learned Nick, go for German engineering instead!

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    Replies
    1. Appalled that Hotpoint Customer Service obviously couldn't care less. Have cancelled the Hotpoint engineer visit, given up complaining to Hotpoint, sent an email to original retailer, and have just bought a new machine with a 5 year parts and labour guarantee to be delivered in less than 24 hours and the Hotpoint piece of junk to be taken away. If I can be arsed later I'll take the back/top off and have a look inside, but I just want it out of my house!

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    2. Hotpoint and all their subsidiaries seem to think that they can run roughshod over their customers. From washing machines that are not fit for purpose to tumble dryers that catch fire. Like you, I avoid any of this group's appliances now!

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  85. hi i have been using my aq9d on 400 spin for the last 4 years because of the terrible noise,i have looked at everything and changed springs & shocks (£50) and still no difference,then i saw this site began to think,lean machine back onto cupboard,remove circular wire that holds door rubber to front of machine and push rubber back so the concrete block can be seen.check all 3 bolts then see if the washers turn,2 of mine turned and i added 4mm thick oversized washer to them and refitted them.it now spins quietly.i didnt look but i presume the bolts had bottomed out and allowed 0.5mm of movement behind

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    Replies
    1. Mmmm.. interesting. Thanks for posting this information.

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    2. continued from 18/5/17. concrete which gets bigger with vibration leading to it breaking up.the bolts on my machine were tight,with the washers on it sounds better than it ever has.while working on the THING i noticed that it has only 3 springs but provision for 4 to be fitted can anyone tell me what it should be?,it is a 62litre drum.thanks

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