Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Unplug the dishwasher.
- Perform a hard reset: unplug for 5 minutes, reconnect, and retry.
- If F3 persists, the thermistor requires professional replacement.
- Contact Fisher & Paykel service.
If the warning comes back after restart
- If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
- F3 persists after a power reset
What This Error Means
The F3 fault code on your Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer means: The thermistor (temperature sensor) in the wash sump has reported a reading outside the expected range. The dishwasher cannot accurately monitor water temperature.
The most common cause is: thermistor failure — resistance has drifted out of specification.
This fault is not user-fixable and requires professional service. Contact Fisher & Paykel service if F3 persists after a reset.
What users usually notice before this code
Fisher & Paykel dishwasher warnings like this often show up after standing water, slow draining, heavy food residue, or a cycle that never returned to normal at the end.
Common misdiagnoses
- Assuming the display code proves one exact failed part before the safe first checks are done.
- Blaming a pump or valve first when a blocked path, filter, hose, or household plumbing issue is still possible.
- Treating a sensor-related warning as a guaranteed board failure before checking the simpler model-family causes first.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Fisher & Paykel dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Thermistor failure — resistance has drifted out of specification
Check first: SAFETY: Unplug the dishwasher.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Thermistor wiring disconnected or corroded
Check first: Perform a hard reset: unplug for 5 minutes, reconnect, and retry.
Common Causes
- Thermistor failure — resistance has drifted out of specification
- Thermistor wiring disconnected or corroded
What Not to Do
- Do not repeatedly run cycles with F3 active — the dishwasher cannot control water temperature safely
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Fisher & Paykel dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
Fisher & Paykel service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Fisher & Paykel dishwasher parts.
Common parts
- Thermistor/temperature sensor (~$20–$50) (varies) - consult technician
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
F3 persists after a power reset
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Ensure the dishwasher is level — water pooling in unexpected areas can accelerate sensor corrosion
Related Error Codes
Helpful guides for this problem
Guide
What to check before replacing a dishwasher drain pump
The checks worth doing before you blame the drain pump and spend money on a fix that may not be the real problem.
Guide
How to tell if a dishwasher problem is drainage or leak-protection related
How to tell whether a dishwasher water-related warning is about drainage or a more cautious leak-protection stop.
Guide
Most common Bosch dishwasher error codes and what they usually mean
A clearer look at the Bosch dishwasher codes owners run into most often and what is worth checking before booking service.
When not to keep pushing DIY troubleshooting
Use the code page for one careful first pass, then stop if the same warning returns or the appliance still cannot get back to normal operation.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Fisher & Paykel support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-09
Based on: Based on Fisher & Paykel support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Fisher & Paykel North America Support
Model coverage note: Fisher & Paykel dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.