# How to Fix Electrolux Error E31 (Pressure Switch)
The E31 error code is a common issue indicating a failure in the system that regulates and monitors the water level within your washing machine. While this guide focuses on the most common causes, always consult your machine’s manual for model-specific diagrams.
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## What the E31 Code Means
The E31 error code on your Electrolux washer signifies a fault with the **Pressure Switch** (also sometimes called the Hydrostat or Water Level Sensor).
This component is crucial because it tells the main control board exactly how much water is in the drum during the fill and wash cycles. When the E31 code appears, it means the control board is receiving an incorrect, erratic, or no signal from the pressure switch, usually indicating a blockage, a wiring fault, or a failure in the switch itself.
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## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing the E31 Error
Since the pressure switch relies on air pressure from the bottom of the tub to operate, troubleshooting requires checking both the electrical component and the air delivery system.
### Step 1: Power Cycle Reset
Before attempting any complicated mechanical fixes, always try a hard reset to clear any temporary glitches in the control board.
1. **Unplug** the washing machine completely from the wall outlet.
2. Wait for **5 to 10 minutes** to allow the residual charge in the control board to dissipate.
3. Plug the machine back in and attempt to run a short cycle.
If the E31 error returns immediately, proceed to the physical inspection steps.
### Step 2: Check the Pressure Hose and Air Trap
The most common non-switch related cause for the E31 error is an obstruction blocking the air flow to the pressure switch.
1. **Access the Tub Area:** You will likely need to remove the front panel, or in some models, the rear panel, to access the tub and drainage system.
2. **Locate the Air Trap:** Near the bottom of the tub, often near the drain pump, you will find a small, rubber hose connected to the tub sump (this is the air trap).
3. **Inspect the Hose Connection:** Follow the rubber hose from the tub up to the pressure switch (which is typically located near the top control panel). Look for:
* **Kinks or Crushes:** Ensure the hose is not bent or pinched anywhere along its length.
* **Disconnections:** Check that both ends of the hose are firmly attached—one to the tub and one to the switch.
4. **Clear Blockages:** Disconnect the hose from the tub and blow firmly through the hose toward the tub sump. If you feel strong resistance, there is likely a soap or lint blockage in the air trap opening on the tub side. Clear this blockage manually using a long wire or small brush.
### Step 3: Inspect Wiring and Connections
Before replacing the switch, ensure it is receiving power and sending a signal correctly.
1. **Access the Pressure Switch:** On most top-loading Electrolux models, the switch is under the main control panel. On front-loaders, it is usually located near the top rear of the machine, connected by the hose checked in Step 2.
2. **Check the Harness:** Unplug the wiring harness from the pressure switch. Inspect the connector pins for signs of corrosion, burning, or water damage.
3. **Secure Connection:** Reconnect the wiring harness firmly. Loose connections are a frequent but simple cause of intermittent error codes.
### Step 4: Replace the Pressure Switch (The Most Likely Culprit)
If the hose is clear, the tub sump is clean, and the wiring connections are secure, the E31 error strongly suggests the switch itself has failed internally and needs to be replaced.
1. **Disconnect Power:** Always unplug the machine before removing parts.
2. **Remove the Components:** Disconnect the hose and the wiring harness from the switch.
3. **Replace:** The switch is usually secured by one or two screws or clips. Install the new pressure switch, reattach the hose and the wiring harness exactly as they were on the old unit.
4. **Test:** Reassemble the panels, plug the machine back in, and run a diagnostic or quick wash cycle. The E31 error should now be resolved.
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**Call to Action**
Check the price for a replacement Pressure Switch here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Electrolux+Pressure Switch&tag=trivian-20