Your Fisher & Paykel washing machine is a dependable part of your daily routine—until an unexpected error code flashes and suddenly you’re stuck with a pile of dirty laundry. But don’t panic! These error codes are like your machine’s way of speaking, giving you clues about what’s wrong. And with the right knowledge, most issues are easier to fix than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the most common error codes for Top Loading and Front Loading Fisher & Paykel washing machines, with practical tips for DIY troubleshooting. For those problems that require a bit more expertise, Wise Appliance Service is always just a call away.
Top Loading Washing Machines: Common Error Codes and How to Self-Troubleshoot
Error Code E10: Thermistor Error
What It Means:
The thermistor, which monitors water temperature, is malfunctioning or out of range.
Symptoms:
• The machine may complete a cycle, but clothes are either too hot or not warm enough.
• The E10 error displays at the end of the wash cycle.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Turn off the machine and unplug it.
2. Check the wiring to ensure the thermistor is securely connected.
3. If you have a multimeter, test the thermistor’s resistance; it should be around 10KΩ at 25°C.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the thermistor is faulty or the issue persists, it may need to be replaced by a technician.
Error Code E37: Drain Error
What It Means:
This code indicates that your washer is taking too long to drain, typically more than 8 minutes.
Symptoms:
• Water remains in the drum after a cycle.
• The machine won’t spin.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Check the drain hose for blockages.
2. Inspect the coin trap at the back of the machine for any debris.
3. Make sure the drain pump is working by listening for its operation.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If clearing blockages doesn’t resolve the issue, the drain pump may need to be repaired or replaced.
Error Code E12: Flood Error
What It Means:
The washer has detected an overfill, triggering the flood protection system.
Symptoms:
• Water overflows from the machine.
• The washer stops mid-cycle and displays E12.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Turn off the water supply and check for a stuck inlet valve.
2. Ensure the pressure sensor hose isn’t kinked or blocked.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If these steps don’t fix the issue, the pressure sensor or inlet valve may need to be replaced.
Error Code E235: Lid Lock Error
What It Means:
This error occurs when the lid lock mechanism fails to engage.
Symptoms:
• The machine won’t start a cycle.
• You may hear clicking sounds as the lid tries to lock.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Ensure the lid is closed completely.
2. Inspect the lid lock for any damage or misalignment.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the lock seems fine but the error persists, the lid lock mechanism may require professional attention.
Error Code E76: No Water Supply
What It Means:
The washer isn’t receiving water, often due to a blocked or disconnected water inlet valve.
Symptoms:
• The washer won’t fill with water.
• The cycle fails to start, and the E76 error appears.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Check that the water supply taps are turned on.
2. Inspect the water inlet hoses for kinks or blockages.
3. Ensure the water pressure is adequate (30-150 psi).
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If water flow seems fine but the error persists, the inlet valve or water sensor may need professional attention.
Front Loading Washing Machines: Common Error Codes and How to Self-Troubleshoot
Error Code E7: Motor Error
What It Means:
An issue with the motor, such as a stall or an out-of-sync error, has occurred.
Symptoms:
• The drum won’t spin properly or remains stationary throughout the cycle.
• The washer suddenly stops mid-cycle and doesn’t complete the wash.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Turn off the machine and restart it after a few minutes.
2. Check if the drum spins freely when turned by hand.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the error persists, the motor may need to be replaced.
Error Code Err 12: Water Level Exceeded Flood Protection
What It Means:
The washer has detected that the water level is too high, triggering the flood protection system.
Symptoms:
• The machine won’t continue the cycle.
• Water appears inside the drum when it shouldn’t.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Turn off the water supply.
2. Check for blockages in the pressure sensor hose or replace it if necessary.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the pressure sensor or valve might need replacement.
Error Code Err 37: Pump Error
What It Means:
The washer’s pump has encountered an error, likely due to a blockage or malfunction.
Symptoms:
• The washer doesn’t drain properly.
• The error appears during or after a draining cycle.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Inspect the drain pump and hose for blockages.
2. Enter diagnostic mode to test the pump function.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the pump isn’t working despite clearing blockages, it may need to be replaced.
Error Code Err 5: Communication Error
What It Means:
There is a communication issue between the power board and the display board.
Symptoms:
• The washer stops mid-cycle.
• The control panel becomes unresponsive.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Restart the machine to see if the error clears.
2. Inspect the wiring harness for any loose or damaged connections.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the error persists, the control boards may need professional attention.
Error Code Err 5: Communication Error
What It Means:
There is a communication issue between the power board and the display board.
Symptoms:
• The washer stops mid-cycle.
• The control panel becomes unresponsive.
How to Self-Troubleshoot:
1. Restart the machine to see if the error clears.
2. Inspect the wiring harness for any loose or damaged connections.
When to Call Wise Appliance Service:
If the error persists, the control boards may need professional attention.
General Troubleshooting Tips for Fisher & Paykel Washing Machines
1. Check for Blockages: Ensure hoses and pumps are free from debris.
2. Restart When in Doubt: Turning off the washer for a few minutes can reset the system.
3. Use Correct Settings: Overloading the machine or using the wrong cycle for the load can trigger errors.
4. Inspect Water Connections: Make sure both hot and cold water supplies are working properly.