UniMac Washer Error Code EI01: Infra-Red Send Failed
EI01 on a UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractor means the infra-red link to an external programming tool failed to send. Washing, draining and spinning are not affected. Re-aim the tool at the window, wipe the window clean, and try the transfer again.
Low: a data link message only; the unit keeps running.
What does UniMac error code EI01 mean?
EI01 appears on UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractors such as the UWL035K12 when the infra-red link to an external device fails to send. The washer has an infra-red window on its control that talks to a hand-held or computer programming tool, and technicians or owners use it to move program data in and out. When the washer tries to send data and the tool does not receive it, the control reports EI01. The message concerns the data link only. It is not a sign that anything is wrong with the wash system, and it goes away once a transfer succeeds. The manual points to the alignment between the tool and the window, dirt or film on the window, distance and room light during the transfer, and the infra-red circuit on the control if the transfer never works.
Affected models and control systems
Listed for the PHM1263R family of UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractors (UWL/UWN/UWU 035-125), such as the UWL035K12, on the front-end control with the infra-red window.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- EI01 on the display after a send is attempted from the tool
- The tool reports no data received
- Normal washing is unaffected
- The message clears after a successful transfer
Possible causes
Listed in UniMac's documentation
- Device poorly aligned with the infra-red window
- Dirt or film on the window
- Distance or ambient light during the transfer
- Infra-red circuit on the control that never works
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code EI01 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A tool held at an angle from across the room instead of right in front of the window
- Fabric softener or lint film on the window from a cleaning cloth with residue
- A tool with weak batteries that cannot send a strong enough beam
Safe checks before calling for service
- Re-aim the external device at the infra-red window on the control and try the transfer again.
- Wipe the window with a clean dry cloth.
- Hold the device steady and close to the window.
- If EI01 keeps appearing on every attempt, call us.
- Note which tool you used and its distance from the control.
How a technician diagnoses error code EI01
- Confirm the tool and its version are the right ones for this machine.
- Check the window for scratches, film and the position of the tool at a normal distance.
- Test the transfer in a shaded area and with fresh batteries in the tool.
- Try a second tool if one is available to separate a tool problem from the control.
- Replace the control's infra-red circuit only after both tools fail.
- Testing the infra-red receiver on the control means opening the cabinet, where 208-240 V is present.
- A bad tool, a dirty window and a weak receiver look the same, so swapping tools is part of the test.
- Programming files moved over the link change the machine's own settings, which should be handled with the right data.
How error code EI01 differs from similar codes
EI01 is a send failure. EI02 is a timeout during a transfer, and EI09 and EI0A report damaged or malformed data.
Technical reference
- Document
- Washer-Extractor Programming PHM1263R, Part No. F8208801R7, September 2015, Error Codes (p.53-54)
- Maker documentation
- UniMac owner support
- Edition
- Part No. F8208801R7, September 2015
- Models / control
- PHM1263R family pocket hardmount washer-extractor (UWL/UWN/UWU 035-125) front-end control
- Section
- Error Codes, Table 16, printed pp. 52-53 (PDF pp. 54-55)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related UniMac washer error codes
Does EI01 stop the washer?
No. Only the data link is affected, and cycles run as normal.
Will EI01 clear on its own?
Yes, once a transfer succeeds.
Do I need a service call for EI01?
Only if every attempt fails after cleaning and re-aiming.
Need help with UniMac error code EI01?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.