What does Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer error code F3 mean?

F3 means the DishDrawer cannot heat the wash water to the correct temperature. The most common cause is a burned-out heating element. Test the element with a multimeter (should read 10–30 ohms). Also check the NTC temperature sensor and the wiring between these components and the control board.

Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Error Code F3 — Water Heating Fault

Advanced Repair 45–75 minutes Tools: Phillips screwdriver, Torx T15 screwdriver, Multimeter

What this means

Error code F3 on Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer dishwashers indicates the water heater is not raising the temperature to the expected level within the allotted time. DishDrawer models use a flow-through heater or element in the sump area to heat wash water. This code triggers when the temperature sensor detects that the water has not reached the target temperature after the maximum heating time. Common causes include a burned-out heating element, a faulty NTC temperature sensor, a wiring fault to the heater circuit, or a control board issue.

Alternate codes: Fault 3, Error F3

Step-by-step fix

4 steps

Reset the unit

Turn off the DishDrawer at the wall switch or circuit breaker. Wait 2 minutes, then restore power. Run a normal wash cycle and monitor whether the F3 code reappears. Sometimes a temporary glitch or power fluctuation can trigger this code.

Touch the door of the DishDrawer during a cycle — if it feels cold after 15 minutes of washing, the heater is likely not working.

Test the heating element

Disconnect power completely. Access the sump area underneath the drawer. Locate the heating element and disconnect its wiring terminals. Use a multimeter set to resistance mode to test the element — it should read between 10 and 30 ohms. An open-circuit (infinite) reading means the element is burned out and needs replacement.

Also test for continuity between each element terminal and the metal chassis — any continuity indicates the element is grounding out and must be replaced.

Check the NTC temperature sensor

Locate the NTC thermistor sensor near the sump or heater assembly. Disconnect it and measure its resistance — at room temperature (about 25°C / 77°F) it should read approximately 50,000 ohms (50K). A reading significantly different from this, or an open circuit, indicates a faulty sensor.

You can confirm NTC sensor function by warming it gently with your hand — the resistance should decrease as temperature rises.

Inspect wiring and control board

Trace the wiring from the heater element and temperature sensor back to the control board. Check for burned connectors, corroded pins, or broken wires. If the element and sensor test fine but F3 persists, the control board relay that powers the heater may have failed.

On DishDrawer models, moisture from steam can corrode control board connections over time. Look for green oxidation on connector pins.

When to call a professional

If the heating element and temperature sensor test fine but the error persists, the control board likely needs replacement or repair — this is best handled by a Fisher & Paykel authorized technician.

Related error codes

Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.

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