Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher: error codes indicated by flashing lights

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher displays error codes through flashing lights or beeping sounds, it indicates a fault condition. Common issues include water supply interruptions, drainage problems, and motor faults. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve these issues effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Fisher & Paykel Models

  • DishDrawer models use ‘A’, ‘F’, ‘U’ and ‘E’ fault codes with specific meanings such as A1 water supply, A3 drain, F1 flood, U1 fill faults.

Possible Causes

Flood detected (water in base pan)

How to Identify: F1 or similar flood/flood switch activation code with water detected in base or leakage signs

Part: Flood sensor, base tray

Water supply/fill fault

How to Identify: A1/U1 codes indicating no or slow fill; symptom of dishwasher not filling within expected time

Part: Inlet valve, inlet hose, water supply

Drainage fault (clogged drain or pump issue)

How to Identify: A3 or F7/E4-like codes (depending on model with water remaining post cycle or unable to drain

Part: Drain hose, drain pump, filter

Motor or wash pump fault

How to Identify: F2 or similar motor fault codes; motor fails to spin or cycle halts, possible noise

Part: Wash motor, motor rotor

Temperature sensor/heating fault

How to Identify: F3/E3 type codes with issues reaching correct water temp or overheating

Part: Thermistor or heating element

Spray arm / internal component issue

How to Identify: A6/U6 codes indicating spray arm loose or obstructed, may affect water flow

Part: Spray arm, internal fittings

Electronics / control board errors

How to Identify: F8/F9/E8/E9 or similar electrical fault codes; random resets or multiple failures

Part: Main control board or display module

DIY Solutions

Check and clear water supply blockages

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: towel, pliers
  1. Turn off power and water supply
  2. Ensure the water supply tap is fully open and inlet hose is free of kinks
  3. Remove and clean mesh screen filter on the inlet hose if present
  4. Restore water and power and retry the cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Shut off water and power before disconnecting hoses

Clear drain hose and dishwasher filter

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: bucket, towel, screwdriver
  1. Turn off dishwasher power
  2. Pull out bottom drawer and remove the dishwasher filter
  3. Clean debris from the filter and check the drain area
  4. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages and clear any debris
  5. Reassemble and run a short rinse cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected to avoid pump activation

Inspect and secure spray arms

Easy 10 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Open drawer and remove spray arms
  2. Check if spray arms are properly mounted and clear of obstructions
  3. Re-seat spray arms ensuring they rotate freely
  4. Run a rinse cycle to check if error clears

Dry out base pan for flood faults

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: towels, container
  1. Turn off power and water
  2. Pull drawer and mop up any water in base pan
  3. Let area air dry thoroughly (may take hours)
  4. Restore power and test if code clears
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid electrical shock by ensuring power is off

Professional Repairs

Replace wash motor or pump

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace temperature sensor or heating element

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Control board diagnostics and replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $600

When to Call a Professional

Error persists after DIY troubleshooting
Repeated electronics/control board fault codes
Water leaking or flood faults that recur after drying

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filter and drain monthly: Drain blockages and related error codes
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check inlet hose mesh filter: Water supply fill faults
    Frequency: every 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher error codes indicated by flashing lights?
This typically indicates issues like flood detection, water supply faults, or drainage problems.
How do I fix Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher error codes indicated by flashing lights myself?
Check water supply for blockages, clear the drain hose, and ensure spray arms are functioning properly.
How much does it cost to fix error codes indicated by flashing lights?
Professional repairs can range from $100 to $600 depending on the issue, such as motor or heating element replacement.
When should I call a technician for error codes indicated by flashing lights?
If DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you're facing complex problems like electronics failures, call a technician.

References & Sources

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

  • Blocked or clogged drain filter
  • Faulty door latch or door switch
  • Water supply issues (insufficient water pressure or blockage)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter. Open the dishwasher door, remove the bottom rack, and take out the filter. Rinse it under warm water to remove debris and reinstall.

  2. Inspect the door latch and switch. Ensure the door closes properly and the latch engages. If faulty, replace the door latch assembly.

  3. Check the water supply line for kinks or blockages. Ensure the water inlet valve is functioning properly and replace if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Full list of Fisher & Paykel dishwasher F Codes?

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