What does Fisher & Paykel dryer error code H73 mean?

H73 means the dryer motor is not running properly. The most common cause is a broken drive belt. Open the dryer and check that the belt is intact and seated on the drum and motor pulley. If the belt is fine, check that the drum spins freely by hand and test the motor windings with a multimeter.

H73

Fisher & Paykel Dryer Error Code H73 — Motor Fault

Advanced Repair 45–90 minutes Tools: Phillips screwdriver, Socket wrench set, Multimeter, Replacement belt (if needed)

What this means

Error code H73 on Fisher & Paykel dryers indicates the drum motor is not running as expected. The control board has attempted to start the motor but either received no feedback signal or detected the motor has stalled. Causes include a seized motor bearing, a broken drive belt preventing motor feedback, a jammed drum (foreign object caught between the drum and housing), a faulty start capacitor, or a failed motor. On some models, a broken belt triggers H73 because the motor tachometer signal is lost when the belt breaks.

Alternate codes: Error H73, Fault H73

Step-by-step fix

4 steps

Check the drive belt

Unplug the dryer and remove the top and front panels to access the drum. Check if the drive belt is intact and properly seated on the drum and motor pulley. A broken or slipped belt is the most common cause of H73.

Fisher & Paykel dryers use a thin, flat belt that wraps around the drum. If it has slipped off but is not broken, it may have stretched and should be replaced.

Try to rotate the drum by hand

Reach inside the drum opening and try to rotate the drum manually. It should spin relatively freely with some resistance from the belt and idler. If the drum is completely stuck, a foreign object may be jammed between the drum and the housing.

Small items like coins, screws, or bra underwires can fall through gaps and jam the drum. Check around the felt seal at the front and rear of the drum.

Test the motor

Access the motor (usually at the bottom rear of the dryer). Disconnect the motor wiring and test the windings with a multimeter. A healthy motor will show continuity through its windings. Try to spin the motor shaft by hand — it should turn smoothly without grinding.

A motor that hums but does not turn when power is applied likely has a failed start capacitor or a seized bearing.

Replace the belt or motor

If the belt is broken, thread a new belt around the drum, over the idler pulley, and around the motor pulley. If the motor is seized or its windings test open, replace the entire motor assembly. Reassemble and test.

When replacing the belt, also check the idler pulley for smooth operation. A worn idler can cause the new belt to slip or break prematurely.

When to call a professional

Motor replacement involves significant disassembly and precise belt routing. If you are not comfortable with the repair, a Fisher & Paykel technician can complete it efficiently.

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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