This component is a small, yet vital, part of a washing machine’s control system. It monitors the water level inside the appliance by measuring air pressure within a connected tube. As the drum fills with water, the air pressure in this tube increases. When the pressure reaches a predetermined level, the component signals the control board to shut off the water inlet valve. This ensures the machine fills to the correct level for the selected wash cycle.
Proper water level management is crucial for effective cleaning and rinsing. Insufficient water can lead to poorly cleaned clothes, while excessive water wastes resources and can overwork the pump and motor. Historically, mechanically operated valves controlled water levels, often requiring manual adjustments. The introduction of this electronically controlled system offered greater precision and automation, significantly improving washing machine efficiency and reliability.