Fisher & Paykel’s dishwasher range spans two distinct formats – the freestanding models and the DishDrawer™ – and the fault code system reflects that. F codes cover freestanding models and fundamental system functions; A codes appear predominantly on DishDrawer machines. Both series work the same way: one code, one system, a clear starting point for diagnosis.
National Appliance Repairs services the full Fisher & Paykel range across Australia, with same-day appointments in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. Their technicians carry genuine parts to most jobs, completing the majority of repairs in a single visit.
How Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Codes Work
A code appears on the display when the machine detects a fault and halts the current programme. In most cases you can attempt a soft reset – turn the machine off at the power point for 60 seconds, then back on. If the same code reappears, the underlying fault needs to be addressed. Do not continue running the machine when certain codes – particularly F1, A3 with flooding, or E6 – are active, as this can cause secondary damage.
This page covers the codes most commonly seen on Australian machines: F30, E6, A3, A6, and F1.
Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Error Code Reference
| Code | Models | Fault | Common Cause |
|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Freestanding | Flood switch activated / water in base pan | Leak, overfill, or excessive sudsing |
| F2 | Freestanding | Motor / wash pump fault | Stalled or failed wash motor |
| F3 | Freestanding | Temperature sensor fault | Failed NTC thermistor |
| F4 | Freestanding | Heating element fault | Failed element or control board |
| F5 | DishDrawer | Lid fault | Lid lock mechanism fault or misalignment |
| F6 | Freestanding | Water fill error | No supply, closed tap, or inlet valve fault |
| F7 | Freestanding | Drain fault | Blocked pump or drain hose |
| F30 | DishDrawer | Flood switch activated | Water in base – drainage fault or leak |
| A3 | DishDrawer | Drain fault | Blocked drain hose or kinked connection |
| A6 | DishDrawer | Wash pressure / excess foam | Loose spray arm or wrong detergent |
| E6 | Freestanding | Drain fault | Blocked filter or failed drain pump |
F30 – Flood Switch Activated (DishDrawer)
F30 means water has accumulated in the base pan and triggered the flood switch. It could be a one-off overflow or the symptom of something more persistent – a reset will tell you which.
Switch the machine off and back on at the power point. If the code clears and stays clear, monitor the machine over a few cycles. If F30 keeps returning, inspect the drain hose for kinks and check where it connects to the plumbing trap spigot under the sink – debris builds up at that junction and partially blocks outflow over time. A base pan that stays wet despite a clear drain hose points to a slow internal leak requiring a technician.
E6 – Drain Fault (Freestanding Models)
E6 on freestanding Fisher & Paykel dishwashers means the machine couldn’t drain water within the set time. The filter at the bottom of the tub is the most common cause – it captures food particles from every wash cycle and needs to be cleaned regularly. To address E6:
- Remove the lower basket and take out the filter assembly.
- Rinse the filter thoroughly under hot running water.
- Inspect the drain pump for any debris that has made it past the filter.
- Check the drain hose for kinks and confirm it isn’t immersed in standing water at the waste connection.
If cleaning the filter and checking the hose doesn’t resolve E6, the drain pump itself may have failed.
A3 – Drain Fault (DishDrawer)
A3 is a drainage fault. The most reliable place to start is the connection between the drain hose and the household trap spigot under the sink – food residue accumulates there and can reduce outflow significantly without blocking it completely. Trace the hose along its full run for kinks or compression, particularly at bends near the cabinet base. If the hose and connection are both clear, the drain pump itself may be obstructed or failing.
A6 – Wash Pressure / Excess Foam (DishDrawer)
A6 indicates insufficient wash pressure or excess foam during the cycle. A spray arm that isn’t correctly seated disrupts water circulation enough to trigger the code; check that it clips firmly into its mount and rotates without resistance. If foam is the cause – most commonly from using liquid dish soap instead of dishwasher tablets – run an empty rinse cycle to clear it before reloading with the correct detergent.
F1 – Flood Switch / Leak Detected
F1 means water has reached the base pan and triggered the flood sensor. It got there one of three ways: an internal leak, an overfill, or detergent foam backing up below the tub.
Check the floor. No water visible – over-foaming is likely, switch off and let it dry out fully before restarting. Water on the floor or under the machine – disconnect power and water immediately. That’s a leak requiring a technician to find and fix before the machine runs again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does F30 mean on a Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer?
F30 means the flood switch in the base of the DishDrawer has been activated. Water has accumulated in the base pan, typically due to a drainage issue or an internal leak. Resetting the machine and inspecting the drain hose is the first step.
What does E6 mean on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
E6 is a drain fault on freestanding Fisher & Paykel models. The machine failed to drain within the required time. Start by cleaning the filter at the bottom of the tub, then check the drain hose for kinks.
What causes the A3 error on a Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer?
A3 is a drainage fault specific to the DishDrawer range. The drain hose is frequently blocked or kinked at the connection point to the household plumbing trap spigot. Check this junction first, then trace the full length of the hose for any compression.
Why does my Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer show A6?
A6 indicates insufficient wash pressure or excess foam. Check that the spray arm is correctly seated and rotating freely, and confirm you’re using dishwasher-specific tablets rather than liquid dish soap or general detergent.
How do I reset a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
Turn the machine off at the wall power point, leave it for 60 seconds, then turn it back on. If the fault code reappears, the underlying cause needs to be diagnosed and repaired.
Book a Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Repair
If the steps above haven’t resolved the fault, National Appliance Repairs services the full Fisher & Paykel dishwasher range – freestanding and DishDrawer – across Australia. Genuine parts, upfront pricing before any work begins, and a 12-month warranty on components replaced. Call 1300 434 380 or book a time online.
