Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code 5 — Water Not Filling
What this means
Error code 5 on Fisher & Paykel washing machines indicates the washer has not detected sufficient water intake within the expected fill time. The pressure sensor reports that the water level has not risen adequately. Causes include closed water supply taps, kinked inlet hoses, blocked inlet filter screens, faulty water inlet valve solenoids, or low household water pressure. This is a common and usually easy-to-resolve error on Fisher & Paykel SmartDrive and WashSmart models.
Alternate codes: Fault 5, Error 5, E5
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsVerify water supply taps are open
Check both the hot and cold water supply taps behind the washer. Ensure both are fully open (turned counterclockwise as far as they go). If the washer was recently moved or serviced, the taps may have been turned off.
Fisher & Paykel washers with auto-temperature sensing need both taps open even if you only use cold washes.
Clean the inlet hose filter screens
Turn off both water supply taps. Disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the washer (have a bucket ready). Remove the small mesh filter screens from inside each hose connection. Clean them thoroughly with a brush under running water. Reinstall and reconnect.
Fisher & Paykel has filter screens at both the tap end and the washer end of the hoses. Check and clean all four screens.
Check for kinked hoses
Inspect both inlet hoses for kinks, sharp bends, or compression. The washer should be positioned far enough from the wall to allow smooth hose curves without pinching.
Replace rubber inlet hoses with braided stainless steel hoses for better durability and kink resistance.
Test water inlet valves
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, the water inlet valve solenoids may have failed. Unplug the washer, disconnect the valve wiring, and test each solenoid coil with a multimeter. They should read between 500 and 1500 ohms. Replace any valve with an open-circuit reading.
Fisher & Paykel washers may have two or three inlet valve solenoids — test each one individually.
When to call a professional
If all supply checks pass but the washer still will not fill, the pressure sensor or control board may be at fault. A qualified technician should diagnose these components.
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.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Inlet Hose Set (Pair)
Part #FP425009 · $20–$35
If hoses are kinked or filter screens are damaged
Links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend parts relevant to this repair.