The E16 error on your Hoover Washing means there is a heating system malfunction or the machine has detected an issue with the water heating circuit. This typically indicates the heater element is not working correctly or the control module cannot communicate with the heating system.
| Error code | E16 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Heating system fault or heater circuit malfunction |
| Severity | Medium — Machine may still wash but without hot water |
| Time to fix | 20–60 minutes |
| Tools needed | Multimeter, screwdriver set, socket wrench |
What the E16 error means
The E16 error code indicates that your Hoover washing machine has detected a problem with its heating system. This could mean the heating element is faulty, the thermistor is not reading temperature correctly, or there is a wiring issue preventing the control board from activating the heater. The machine may continue to run cycles but will not heat the water to the selected temperature, which can affect washing performance and may leave clothes not properly cleaned.
Common causes
- Faulty or burned-out heating element that cannot heat the water
- Defective thermistor or temperature sensor giving incorrect readings
- Loose or damaged wiring connections to the heater or control board
- Failed heater relay on the main control module
- Limescale buildup on the heating element reducing efficiency
- Short circuit in the heating circuit causing the safety system to trigger
How to fix the E16 error
- Reset the machine and check for temporary glitches: Switch off the washing machine and unplug it from the mains for five minutes. This allows the control board to reset. Plug it back in and run a diagnostic cycle to see if the error clears. If the error returns, proceed with further checks.
- Test the heating element with a multimeter: Unplug the machine and access the heating element, usually located at the bottom rear behind a panel. Disconnect the wires and use a multimeter set to ohms. A working element should show 20–50 ohms resistance. Zero ohms indicates a short circuit, while infinite resistance means the element has failed and needs replacement.
- Inspect the thermistor sensor: Locate the thermistor near the heating element. Test it with a multimeter at room temperature, which should read approximately 10,000 to 50,000 ohms depending on the model. Check the wiring for damage or corrosion. If readings are outside the expected range or wires are damaged, replace the thermistor.
- Check all electrical connections: Examine the wiring between the heating element, thermistor, and control board. Look for loose connections, burnt wires, or corroded terminals. Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged wiring. Ensure all spade connectors are firmly attached.
- Clean limescale from the heating element: If you live in a hard water area, limescale may have accumulated on the element. Remove the element and soak it in a descaling solution or white vinegar for several hours. Scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and reinstall. Run a hot cycle to check if the error is resolved.
- Replace the control module if necessary: If all components test correctly but the error persists, the control board may have a faulty heater relay. This requires professional diagnosis or replacement of the control module. Contact Hoover service or a qualified appliance technician for this repair.
FAQ
Can I still use my Hoover washing machine with the E16 error showing?
Yes, the machine may still operate and complete wash cycles, but it will not heat the water. This means cold water washes only, which may not effectively clean heavily soiled items or sanitize laundry. It is best to fix the error to restore full functionality.
How much does it cost to replace a Hoover washing machine heating element?
A replacement heating element typically costs between £15 and £40 for the part. If you hire a professional technician, labour costs usually range from £60 to £120 depending on your location. Total repair costs generally fall between £75 and £160.
Why does the E16 error appear only on hot wash cycles?
The E16 error specifically relates to the heating system, so it only triggers when the machine attempts to heat water. Cold wash cycles do not activate the heating element, so the error will not appear during those programmes. This confirms the fault is definitely with the heating circuit.
