Wascomat Washer-Dryer Error Code 86: Short in Vacuum Sensor
Code 86 on the Selecta II dryer unit means the vacuum or pressure switch was already closed when a start was attempted. It is E 16 in the Selecta II manual. Switch the dryer off and on once, then call us.
Medium: the dryer will not start while the switch reads closed.
What does Wascomat error code 86 mean?
Before the fan starts, the vacuum switch should be open, because there is no airflow yet. The Selecta II unit of the Wascomat WD4130 and WD4240 checks this at the moment of a start attempt. If the switch is already closed, the unit shows ERROR 086 / SHORT IN VACUUM SENS., which the manual lists as E 16. It refuses to start because a switch that is always closed would hide a real loss of airflow. The manual gives no causes and refers the reader to the Selecta II service manual. A switch that is stuck closed, or wiring that is shorted, would look the same to the unit, although the manual does not say so. A technician checks the switch and wiring with a meter, and also looks for lint or moisture that could hold the switch contacts together. Operators can help by noting whether the code appears on the very first start after the dryer has been off for hours, or only after a run, because that points to a switch that sticks with heat.
Affected models and control systems
The dryer program unit (Selecta II) of Wascomat washer-dryers WD4130 and WD4240.
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
- ERROR 086 / SHORT IN VACUUM SENS. Appears on the dryer display
- The dryer will not start
- The fan does not run
- The code returns on every attempt
Possible causes
Likely causes — what usually sits behind error code 86 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A switch stuck closed by dirt or wear
- Switch wiring shorted where it passes the fan housing
Safe checks before calling for service
- Switch the dryer off, wait a minute, and switch it on again.
- Do not open the cabinet or touch the switch.
- Try one start and see whether the fan runs.
- Note the model and the code, and call us.
How a technician diagnoses error code 86
- Read the code and confirm it is E 16 in the Selecta II table.
- Follow the Selecta II service manual.
- Measure the vacuum switch at rest and confirm it is open.
- Check the wiring for a short.
- Check the hose for blockage.
- Replace the switch or repair the wiring.
- Switch and wiring tests are done with a meter near mains power.
- The switch sits inside the cabinet.
- A stuck switch hides airflow loss, so it must be proven working.
How error code 86 differs from similar codes
Code 86 is the switch closed at start, while code 85 is the switch that fails to close after start.
Technical reference
- Document
- Service manual, Washer extractors W465H-W4300H, W475S-W4330S, W475N-W4330N, Type W3..., Compass Control
- Maker documentation
- Wascomat owner support
- Edition
- 438 9228-61/EN, 2011.08.25
- Models / control
- Dryer program unit of washer-dryers WD4130 and WD4240 (Selecta II program unit)
- Section
- Troubleshooting, Error codes from DRYER PROGRAM UNIT, 'Only for WD4130, WD4240' (manual pp. 110, 138-139)
- 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 Wascomat washer error codes
Is the switch stuck?
It may be; a short in the wiring looks the same.
Can I override it?
No. The check protects against heating with no airflow.
Is it the same as code 85?
No. Code 85 is the switch not closing in time.
Need help with Wascomat error code 86?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.