Our Miele W723 washing machine works fine but the water's not heating. I assume it's the element (it's 25 years old!) but could it also be the temperature regulator/thermostat assembly. Anyone any thoughts how to eliminate one or the other to check?

Tony T, March 2011

I knew the heater element had blown as it was open circuit, just didn't know if there was any secondary damage to the relay or PCB. Putting hot water into the soap dispenser and doing a wash cycle checked that the thermostat was working OK. Changed the element and all now working fine..........saved around £70 by buying spare from uk whitegoods. Time will tell if it is as reliable as an original.

Dobulas, March 2011

I have a similar problem on a W842 - I was getting the 'Main wash' light flashing during the wash cycle. To prove it I poured hot water into the slightly open soap dispenser and started the wash sequence and no light - will change the heater element over the next couple of days and report.

Dobulas, March 2011

do a resistance check across the heater.open circuit means the element has blown
you could also check for voltage at the heater terminal but be careful live testing!

ck, March 2011