UniMac Washer Error Code EI09: Infra-Red CRC-16 Error
EI09 on a UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractor is an infra-red CRC-16 error: the data received did not match its built-in check number, so it was damaged on the way in. Cycles go on as normal. Re-aim the tool, shade the window and try again.
Low: a data link message only; the unit keeps running.
What does UniMac error code EI09 mean?
EI09 is an infra-red CRC-16 error on UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractors such as the UWL035K12. Every block of data sent over the infra-red link carries a check number calculated from its content. The washer recalculates that number on arrival and compares the two. When they do not match, the data was damaged on the way in, and the control throws the block away and shows EI09. A shaky aim, sunlight or bright light on the window, and interference are the usual reasons, because anything that flips even a few bits of the beam breaks the check. The wash systems are not involved and cycles go on as normal. The manual lists a tool held at the wrong angle or distance, bright light on the control window, a dirty window that distorts the data, and a receiver on the control that damages data if the error repeats.
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, front-end control with 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
- EI09 during a transfer, often on the same block
- Tool reports a data error and retries
- Normal washing continues
- Success after shading the window
Possible causes
Listed in UniMac's documentation
- Tool held at the wrong angle or distance
- Bright light shining on the control window
- Dirty window distorting the infra-red data
- Receiver on the control that damages data, if it repeats
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code EI09 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A window facing a sunny opening or a skylight in the laundry room
- Fluorescent or LED fixtures right above the control adding infra-red noise
- A tool whose emitter is dirty or partly covered by a case
Safe checks before calling for service
- Re-aim the tool at the infra-red window and transfer again.
- Shade the window from direct sunlight or bright overhead light.
- Wipe the window and hold the tool steady.
- If EI09 keeps coming back, call us.
- Note whether the error appears more on sunny days.
How a technician diagnoses error code EI09
- Repeat the transfer in shade at close range with the tool steady.
- Clean both the control window and the tool's emitter.
- Try a second tool to separate a bad tool from the control.
- Check for nearby infra-red sources such as light fixtures or remote controls.
- Replace the receiver only if data stays damaged under ideal conditions.
- The receiver sits behind the control panel with 208-240 V wiring nearby.
- Light interference needs a controlled test in a shaded location to confirm.
- A receiver that damages data quietly could corrupt a program transfer, so the result must be verified.
How error code EI09 differs from similar codes
EI09 means the data failed its check. EI0A means the message shape could not be read, and EI05 means the data arrived clean but out of range.
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
What is a CRC-16 error?
It means the data failed a built-in check number, so it was altered on the way in.
Can sunlight really cause it?
Yes. Bright light on the window can swamp the infra-red beam.
Is my program damaged?
No. The block was thrown away, not stored.
Need help with UniMac error code EI09?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.