Mend > Washing Machines

Fabric softener not emptying?

My Hotpoint Aquarius Extra has stopped emptying the fabric softener compartment, even though the rest of the wash/rinse cycle is completed as normal. I have tried wiping the water inlets, and putting a pipe cleaner into them without success, the liquid has not moved. Is this a matter of a blocked pipe, or is there some other likely reason? I have had 4 washes since this problem started, and unfortunately I do not have a manual for the machine to give me guidance.

Bert Sharpe
July 2010

Hotpoint Hotpoint Aquarius Extra Household Appliances, Washing Machines Hotpoint Extra Stopped

Dave B,
Many thanks for your expert answer. Solved my similar problem in UK, in Jan 2020!

Steve P
February 2020

Thanks Dave,
I have had the drawer out, and the cover is clear, and sitting on my kitchen windowsill. The drain tube also seems to be clear, so it seems as if water is not reaching the compartment. The liquid is still there, apparently undiluted.
I have had this problem with an earlier machine, but all the likely remedies have not solved it this time

Bert Sharpe
July 2010

Bert,

This happens to me too. Check the washer to see if there is a trickle of water into the fabric softener compartment. If there is, pull the drawer out and there should be an inverted round cylindrical cover over another tube in the softener compartment. If you pull the cover off the inner tube is likely to be blocked. Clesning and reassembley should cure. If you are able to remove the drawer completely, you can offer a trickle of water into the compartment over your sink. What should happen is the compartment should start to fill. When it's almost completely full a syphon effect is created and the water should drain through the centre tube. Turn off the tap and the water should continue to flow till the compartment is empty.

Hope this helps,

Dave B
July 2010