Why your washing machine never washes at 40°C — the real reason behind it and what you can do to fix it. Practical household advice for more efficient laundry.

August 17, 2025 by admin

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### 3. **Water Supply Temperature**

The temperature of your household water supply can affect the final wash temperature. If cold water is very cold or the machine mixes in more cold water than hot, the overall temperature might stay below 40°C.

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### 4. **Sensor Calibration Issues**

Sometimes, the temperature sensors in the machine may be miscalibrated or malfunctioning, causing the machine to stop heating too soon or inaccurately monitor the water temperature.

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### 🛠️ **What Can You Do to Fix or Improve the Situation?**

#### Check Your Wash Settings

* Avoid using eco or quick cycles if you need a true 40°C wash. Choose standard or intensive wash programs that heat water properly.

#### Run Maintenance

* Clean your washing machine regularly. Limescale buildup can affect the heating element’s performance. Use descaling products designed for washing machines.

#### Test the Heating Element and Thermostat

* If you suspect a fault, consult a professional technician who can test and replace faulty parts.

#### Use Hot Water Supply if Possible

* If your machine is connected to a hot water supply, ensure it’s delivering adequately heated water.

#### Calibrate or Reset Sensors

* Some models allow sensor recalibration through specific reset procedures (check your manual or contact the manufacturer).

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### 💡 **Tips for More Efficient Laundry**

* Wash at 30°C or lower when possible — modern detergents clean well at low temperatures, saving energy.
* Use the correct amount of detergent — too much can leave residue and reduce cleaning efficiency.
* Don’t overload your machine — clothes need room to move for effective washing.
* Regularly clean filters and detergent drawers to prevent blockages.

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### 🧺 **Final Thoughts**

Your washing machine not heating water to 40°C isn’t necessarily a fault — it’s often a design choice for energy efficiency or a sign of a part needing attention. By understanding how your machine works and following these practical tips, you can improve your laundry’s effectiveness, save energy, and keep your clothes looking great longer.

If problems persist, consulting a professional repair service is the safest bet to get your machine back to optimal performance.

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Would you like a troubleshooting checklist or a detailed maintenance guide for your washing machine? I’m here to help!