Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher: drainage error

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a drainage error with your Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher? If your appliance stops mid-cycle and leaves standing water at the bottom, it may indicate issues like a clogged drain filter, a blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. Address these problems promptly to restore your dishwasher's functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Fisher & Paykel Models

  • Some models use error codes to indicate water is not draining; consult manual for specific codes and reset steps

Possible Causes

Clogged drain filter

How to Identify: Standing water after cycle, debris visible in bottom filter area, water drains after cleaning filter

Part: Drain filter / strainer

Blocked or kinked drain hose

How to Identify: Water remains in tub; hose has visible bends or debris; freeing block restores drain function

Part: Drain hose

Faulty or failed drain pump

How to Identify: No pump noise during drain cycle; multimeter test shows open circuit or impeller motor stuck

Part: Drain pump and impeller

Air gap or garbage disposal blockage

How to Identify: Clogs in air gap cap or disposal prevent drain flow; clearing these restores drainage

Part: Air gap or garbage disposal connection

Defective electronic control board

How to Identify: Drain pump not actuating even when clear, and other functions may fail; requires testing

Part: Control board

DIY Solutions

Clean the drain filter

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: gloves, soft brush
  1. Turn off and unplug dishwasher.
  2. Remove bottom rack to access filter at base.
  3. Twist and lift out drain filter.
  4. Rinse filter under warm water and use soft brush to remove debris.
  5. Reinsert and secure filter and run a short wash cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before working inside dishwasher

Check and clear the drain hose

Moderate 30-45 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, flexible brush or wire
  1. Turn off power and water to dishwasher.
  2. Pull dishwasher out carefully and locate drain hose at back.
  3. Detach hose at both ends and run water through to check flow.
  4. Use a flexible brush to remove clogs or flush debris with water.
  5. Reattach hoses ensuring no kinks and test drain cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Prepare for water spill; ensure hoses are reconnected securely to avoid leaks

Inspect and clear air gap or disposal connection

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver (if needed), toothpick or brush
  1. Locate air gap on sink if present and remove cap.
  2. Clear any food debris inside air gap chamber.
  3. Run garbage disposal to clear shared drain line.
  4. Run dishwasher to see if drainage improves.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure garbage disposal power is off when checking connection

Professional Repairs

Drain pump replacement

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Control board diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

No drainage after clearing filters and hoses
Unusual noises from drain pump or motor
Error codes that persist after reset and basic cleaning
Electronic control issues suspected

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain filter: Filter clog-related drainage issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect drain hose for kinks: Hose blockages and drainage slowdowns
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher drainage error?
Common causes include a clogged drain filter, blocked drain hose, or a failing drain pump.
How do I fix Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher drainage error myself?
You can clean the drain filter, check the drain hose for blockages, or inspect the air gap for debris.
How much does it cost to fix drainage error?
Professional repairs can range from $80 to $200 for a drain pump replacement, and $150 to $350 for control board issues.
When should I call a technician for drainage error?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the problem seems complex, it's best to contact a professional.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain filter or sump area
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Kinked or blocked drain hose

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter and sump area. Remove any debris or food particles that may be clogging the filter. To do this, open the dishwasher door, remove the bottom rack, and take out the filter. Rinse it under warm water and replace it.

  2. Inspect the drain pump for any blockages or damage. If necessary, access the pump by removing the lower spray arm and the cover. Clean any obstructions and ensure the pump impeller moves freely.

  3. Examine the drain hose for kinks or blockages. Ensure that the hose is properly connected and not pinched. If the hose is damaged, consider replacing it with a new one.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Community Discussions

A20 drainage error

Cleaned turbidity sensor which was covered in fat.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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