Model #WFW8300SW1, this recently installed Duet Sport front load washer didn't even make it through it's first load of wash before water came pouring out from under the unit. The customer quickly shut the washer off and cleaned up the mess, but was rather disappointed that their new washer was in need of repair.



Leaks can and do occur out of washers because, well they use water to do their work and all it takes is something in the wash system to break, then water begins to appear on the floor. Fortunately, they are not a frequent problem and even less so on front load units. Because of their closed tub design, when front load washers begin to leak, it is usually limited to a few key areas. Not very comforting for customers, but it does make it easier for us techs to find the problem.

Because this washer had recently be separated from it's shipping container, I figured the leak was nothing more than a hose connection that had come loose. It happens, and I do my best to reassure the customer of this fact and that I will get it working so they can enjoy their purchase. I began in my normal area by removing the lower access panel and started looking for water. Water trails were nonexistent on this new and very clean washer, so a test cycle was used to help show me the light.

Once the cycle was started, water began pouring from the dispenser and down the left side of the cabinet. Fearing a broken dispenser housing, the top panel was next to be removed, and here is where I found something rather strange. Water had collected on top of the dispenser housing, but the few hose connections were all in tact and there was no sign of water on any of them. So I stared a test cycle again, and this time, water came shooting out of a spot on the dispenser I would have never thought to look.


It appears, the nozzle located inside the dispenser to control the flow of water to each chamber had become damaged somehow, and now was allowing water to not only enter the dispenser, but also shoot right out the top. A look at the old and new nozzles, showes how the center pivot point should be solid like the new one on the right. But the old one on the left has an obvious hole that must have occurred during manufacturer.

Once the problem was discovered, I was able to locate a replacement nozzle at one of my local part suppliers, and had this washer working the same day. With everything back together, the customer again started a wash cycle, and this time, the water stayed inside the tub. A rather strange sort of failure, but when working on brand new appliances, strange tends to be the norm.

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