A water level sensor in a washing machine works by measuring the electrical resistance of the water in the tub.
Understanding the Basic Principle
The primary function of a water level sensor in a washing machine is to determine how much water is currently inside the drum. This information is crucial for the washing machine to select the appropriate cycle settings, determine wash time, and prevent overfilling.
Based on the provided reference, one common method for a water level sensor to operate is:
- It sends an electrical current through the water present in the tub.
- It then measures the resistance to this electrical flow within the water.
The Relationship Between Water Level and Resistance
The key to this sensor's function is the inverse relationship between the amount of water and the electrical resistance:
- More water in the tub leads to lower resistance.
- Less water in the tub results in higher resistance.
| Water Level | Electrical Resistance | Sensor Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Low | High | Indicates low level |
| High | Low | Indicates high level |
How the Machine Uses This Information
The washing machine's control board receives the resistance reading from the sensor. By correlating the measured resistance value to pre-programmed levels, the machine can accurately determine the water depth. This allows the machine to:
- Fill the tub to the correct level for different load sizes or cycles.
- Detect potential leaks or issues with filling/draining.
- Adjust wash cycles based on the water volume required.
This method provides a reliable way for the washing machine to intelligently manage water usage during each wash cycle.
