The error code EC:31 on your Speed Queen washer indicates a Hotlisted Card Inserted into Reader. This means the chip card you inserted has been flagged for deactivation or restricted from use.
Here's an explanation of the problem, potential causes, and why consulting a qualified technician is recommended
Hotlisted Card Inserted into Reader (EC:31)
- Card Deactivation: The error code suggests the chip card you're using has been deactivated or blacklisted by the system it's associated with. This could be due to various reasons depending on the card system used in your washer's environment (e.g., laundromat).
Potential Causes
- Low Balance: In laundromat settings where cards are pre-loaded with value, the card might have reached a zero balance and is no longer usable.
- Card Expiry (Less Likely): In some rare cases, the card itself might have expired, rendering it unusable.
- Security Concerns: The card might have been flagged for security reasons (e.g., reported lost or stolen).
Important Considerations
- Environment-Specific: The meaning and cause of a hotlisted card (EC:31) depend on the specific card system used with your washer. This is often relevant in commercial settings like laundromats where chip cards are used for payment and cycle selection.
- Card Deactivation Warning: Depending on the system, you might not receive a prior warning about a card being deactivated (low balance, expiry).
Recommended Course of Action
- Consult Speed Queen Support: Since the error code is related to the card system itself, contacting Speed Queen's customer support is recommended. They might have limited information on the specific card system, but they can guide you in the right direction:
- Informing you about the possible reasons for card deactivation in common card systems used with Speed Queen washers.
- Advising you to contact the establishment managing the card system (e.g., laundromat) to understand the reason for deactivation and how to resolve it (e.g., reloading the card, obtaining a new card).
- Check for Alternative Payment Methods (if applicable): If you're using the washer at a laundromat, inquire about alternative payment methods they might offer (e.g., coins, contactless payment).
What to Avoid
- Forcing the Card: Avoid repeatedly inserting the card, as this won't resolve the deactivation issue and could damage the card reader.
By understanding the EC:31 error code, you can recognize when a chip card you're trying to use has been deactivated. Consulting Speed Queen support and potentially the establishment managing the card system (e.g., laundromat) will help you determine the cause and possible solutions for using the washer.