1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Amica WA 14690 W freestanding front-loader washing machine. Please read these instructions carefully before using the appliance and keep them for future reference.
The Amica WA 14690 W is designed for household use, offering a 7 kg load capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1400 RPM. It features an A+++ energy efficiency rating, ensuring economical operation.
2. Safety Information
General Safety:
- Ensure the appliance is properly earthed.
- Do not allow children to play with or operate the appliance.
- Keep pets away from the appliance.
- Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
- Unplug the appliance before cleaning or maintenance.
- Do not wash items that have been cleaned, washed, soaked, or spotted with combustible or explosive substances.
Installation Safety:
- Remove all transport bolts before use. Failure to do so can cause severe damage.
- Place the appliance on a firm, level surface.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the machine.
- Do not install the appliance in areas where the temperature may drop below freezing.
Operation Safety:
- Do not open the detergent dispenser while the machine is running.
- Do not force the door open during operation.
- Use only detergents suitable for automatic washing machines.
- The appliance is equipped with a child lock feature to prevent accidental operation.
3. Product Overview
The Amica WA 14690 W washing machine features a user-friendly control panel and a robust design for efficient laundry care.
Figure 1: Front view of the Amica WA 14690 W washing machine. This image displays the detergent drawer on the top left, the program selection dial in the center, a digital display with touch controls on the right, and the main front-loading door. A small access panel is visible at the bottom right.
Components:
- Detergent Dispenser: For adding detergent and fabric softener.
- Control Panel: Includes program dial, digital display, and function buttons.
- Door: Front-loading door for loading and unloading laundry.
- Drum: Stainless steel drum for washing clothes.
- Filter Access Panel: Located at the bottom right for accessing the drain pump filter.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Unpacking
- Carefully remove all packaging materials.
- Inspect the appliance for any damage during transit. Report any damage immediately to your retailer.
4.2 Removing Transport Bolts
Before using the washing machine, it is crucial to remove the transport bolts located at the rear of the appliance. These bolts secure the drum during transport and must be removed to prevent damage during operation.
- Locate the transport bolts on the back panel.
- Using a suitable wrench, loosen and remove all bolts.
- Insert the plastic caps provided into the holes.
- Store the transport bolts for future transport of the machine.
4.3 Positioning the Appliance
- Place the washing machine on a solid, level floor.
- Adjust the leveling feet to ensure the machine is stable and perfectly level. Use a spirit level to verify.
- Ensure there is sufficient space around the machine for ventilation and maintenance.
4.4 Water and Electrical Connections
- Connect the water inlet hose to a cold water tap with a 3/4" thread. Ensure the connection is tight to prevent leaks.
- Position the drain hose into a standpipe or over the edge of a sink, ensuring it is securely fixed to prevent displacement during draining. The drain hose should not be submerged in water.
- Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet. Ensure the voltage and frequency match the specifications of the appliance.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Before First Use
Run an empty wash cycle (e.g., a quick wash at 60°C) without laundry but with a small amount of detergent to clean the drum and remove any manufacturing residues.
5.2 Loading Laundry
- Sort laundry by fabric type, color, and degree of soiling.
- Open the washing machine door.
- Load laundry loosely into the drum, ensuring not to overload. The maximum capacity is 7 kg.
- Close the door firmly until it clicks.
5.3 Adding Detergent and Additives
Open the detergent dispenser drawer and add the appropriate amount of detergent and fabric softener to the designated compartments. Refer to the detergent manufacturer's instructions for dosage.
5.4 Selecting a Wash Program
- Turn the program selection dial to choose the desired wash program (e.g., Cotton, Synthetics, Delicates, Quick Wash).
- The digital display will show the default settings for the selected program, including cycle time (e.g., 219 min), temperature, and spin speed.
- Use the function buttons to adjust settings such as temperature, spin speed (up to 1400 RPM), or to activate special features like pre-wash or extra rinse, if available for the selected program.
5.5 Starting and Stopping a Program
- Press the Start/Pause button to begin the wash cycle.
- To pause a program, press the Start/Pause button again. The remaining time indication will pause.
- To cancel a program, turn the program dial to the 'Off' position, then select a new program or turn off the machine.
5.6 Child Lock
The appliance features a child lock. To activate/deactivate, refer to the specific instructions in the control panel section of your full manual (usually involves pressing and holding two specific buttons simultaneously for a few seconds).
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your washing machine.
6.1 Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser
Pull out the detergent dispenser drawer completely. Rinse it under running water to remove any detergent residue. Clean the compartments and the housing, then reinsert the drawer.
6.2 Cleaning the Drum
Periodically run a maintenance wash cycle (e.g., a hot wash at 90°C with a drum cleaner or a small amount of white vinegar) to prevent odors and limescale buildup.
6.3 Cleaning the Drain Pump Filter
The drain pump filter should be cleaned regularly to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage.
- Open the filter access panel at the bottom right of the machine.
- Place a shallow container beneath the filter to collect any residual water.
- Carefully unscrew the filter counter-clockwise.
- Remove any lint, coins, or foreign objects from the filter and its housing.
- Rinse the filter under running water.
- Screw the filter back in clockwise until it is tight. Close the access panel.
6.4 Cleaning the Exterior
Wipe the exterior surfaces of the washing machine with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
7. Troubleshooting
Before contacting customer service, please refer to the following table for common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not start | Power cord not plugged in; Door not closed properly; Program not selected; Start/Pause button not pressed. | Check power connection; Ensure door is firmly closed; Select a program; Press Start/Pause. |
| No water intake | Water tap closed; Water inlet hose kinked; Water supply cut off. | Open water tap; Straighten hose; Check household water supply. |
| Machine does not drain | Drain hose kinked or blocked; Drain pump filter blocked. | Check and clear drain hose; Clean drain pump filter (refer to Section 6.3). |
| Excessive vibration/noise | Transport bolts not removed; Machine not level; Laundry unevenly distributed. | Remove transport bolts (Section 4.2); Adjust leveling feet (Section 4.3); Redistribute laundry in the drum. |
| Water leakage | Hose connections loose; Detergent dispenser overflowing; Drain hose improperly positioned. | Tighten hose connections; Do not overfill detergent dispenser; Ensure drain hose is secure. |
8. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Amica WA 14690 W washing machine:
- Model: WA 14690 W
- Brand: Amica
- Appliance Type: Freestanding Front-Loader Washing Machine
- Color: White
- Load Capacity: 7 kg
- Maximum Spin Speed: 1400 RPM
- Energy Efficiency Class: A+++
- Annual Energy Consumption: 175 kWh
- Annual Water Consumption: 9240 liters
- Product Dimensions (W x D x H): 59.5 cm x 49.5 cm x 85 cm
- Item Weight: 62 kg
- Cycle Time (Standard): 219 minutes (varies by program)
- Special Features: Built-in display, Automatic load control, Adjustable rotation speed, Remaining time indication, Programmable, Foam control system, Child lock.
9. Warranty and Support
Your Amica WA 14690 W washing machine comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions, including the warranty period and coverage details.
For technical assistance, spare parts, or to report a fault, please contact Amica customer support. Have your model number (WA 14690 W) and serial number ready when contacting support.
Amica Customer Service:
- Contact details (phone, email, website) can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website or in the warranty documentation.
Always ensure that any repairs are carried out by qualified service personnel using genuine Amica spare parts.
