I have an 18 month old Hotpoint washing machine. For several months the fabric conditioner draw has been brim full of water after a wash. When I empty and clean it and put more conditioner in for the next wash the same thing happens and the wash doesn't seem to have had the fabric conditioner added to it during the cycle. It seems to be working OK in every other way.

Vicki, October 2008

Disconnect the power before attempting any work. Use of an RCD (plug in power breaker) is recommended.

Fabric conditioner is taken from the detergent tray by siphon action. Most likely flexible siphon pipe is blocked. Remove machine top, identify the pipe coming from the softener compartment, detach and clean.The siphon action to lift conditioner is generally activated by a mechanical linkage from on of the cams on the programmer. Some other machines have a small motor to activate the conditioner dispenser. Check any linkages, after that disassemble the dispenser body to check for internal blockages in the air channels.
Repair and service your own washing machine. Go to www.2ndwave.co.uk/manual.html

dannyboy, October 2008