Washing Machine
E71
The E71 error code on an Electrolux washing machine indicates a fault with the NTC temperature sensor (the component that measures water temperature). It is a moderately serious fault — your machine will typically stop mid-cycle or refuse to start to prevent overheating or cold washes.
What does this error mean?
Your Electrolux washing machine continuously monitors water temperature via an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor sensor. When it detects that the sensor’s resistance reading is out of the expected range — either stuck, shorted, or sending no signal at all — it throws the E71 code. In plain terms, the machine no longer trusts the temperature data it’s receiving, so it halts the programme rather than risk overheating your laundry or running an ineffective wash cycle.
Est. repair cost
£10–£25 DIY sensor replacement; £80–£150 professional repair (sensor or element); £200–£350+ if PCB replacement is required
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off and unplug the machine — leave it unplugged for 5 minutes, then restart. A transient software glitch can occasionally trigger E71; a hard reset clears it at no cost.
Check and clean the filter and pump area — a blocked filter can cause abnormal heating behaviour. Unscrew the filter cover at the bottom front, drain residual water, remove any debris, and refit securely.
Inspect the wiring connector to the NTC sensor — remove the back panel (two to four screws), locate the sensor on the heating element or sump hose, and firmly reseat any loose connectors. Look for visible corrosion or burn marks.
Test the NTC sensor with a multimeter — with the machine unplugged, disconnect the sensor and measure resistance across its two terminals. At 20°C it should read approximately 20–40 kΩ. A reading of zero (short) or infinite (open circuit) confirms a faulty sensor.
Replace the NTC sensor if faulty — Electrolux-compatible NTC sensors are widely available from UK spares suppliers (e.g. eSpares, 4ourhouse) for £10–£25. Fit the new sensor, reconnect the wiring, and retest.
If the error persists after replacing the sensor and checking all wiring, stop DIY work — the heating element or main PCB is likely involved, and these require a qualified appliance engineer to diagnose and replace safely.
📞 When to call a professional
If the NTC sensor tests fine but the E71 error remains, or if you find burn marks, melted wiring, or a visibly damaged heating element, stop and call a qualified appliance engineer. Tell them: ‘My Electrolux washing machine is displaying error code E71 — I’ve already checked and reseated the NTC sensor wiring and the error persists.’ This helps them arrive prepared with the right parts and reduces call-out time.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for E71 — covering diagnostics, an NTC sensor or heating element replacement — typically costs £80–£150 in the UK. If your machine is under 5 years old, repair almost always makes financial sense. For machines 8 years or older, or if the PCB needs replacing (adding £150–£250 to the bill), weigh the total repair cost against a new mid-range Electrolux washing machine at £400–£600 — replacement may be the smarter long-term choice.