Cracking the Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher A20 Error Code: A DIY Troubleshooting Guide
If you’re the proud owner of a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, chances are you’re already impressed with how sleek and effective it looks and works. However, even the best of us can get the occasional snag or two, and having the infamous A20 error code pop up on your display can bring the dishwashing process to a halt. Fear not!
This error code is your dishwasher’s way of telling you something’s wrong with its drain system and the good news is, you might be able to fix it yourself. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what the A20 error code is, why it happens, and how you can troubleshoot it step by step. Let’s get started!
What Does the A20 Error Code Mean?
A20 fault on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher means a drain fault. That is, it means there’s excess water remaining above the filter plate after the rinse cycle. In simpler terms, your dishwasher is not draining water properly,
And it’s notifying you of the issue through beeps and that pesky A20 code on the front panel. This is a universal issue on many Fisher & Paykel models, such as freestanding dishwashers and DishDrawer™ designs, and it’s usually something you can fix with some know how.
Symptoms You May Observe
- Water accumulating inside: You may open the dishwasher after a cycle to see water standing at the bottom.
- Beeping alarm: The appliance might produce a persistent beep to alert you.
- Cycle halt: The dishwasher may halt in the middle of a cycle, refusing to continue until the problem is fixed.
Why Does the A20 Error Occur?
There are numerous reasons why your Fisher & Paykel dishwasher would display an A20 error. These are the most frequent suspects:
- Kinked or clogged drain hose: If the drain hose is twisted, curled, or jammed with junk, water cannot drain out smoothly.
- Clogged Filter: Grease, food waste, or other foreign objects (read: loose silverware!) might clog up the filter and cause drainage issues.
- Improper Installation of Hose: Without a high loop or in an errant hose run, the drain hose will not drain properly.
- Blocked Waste Outlet: Your garbage disposal (if installed) or sink plumbing could clog back through your dishwasher with a clogged waste outlet.
- Faulty Drain Pump: In some cases, the pump itself might be faulty and is unable to push water out.
Identifying the cause is the solution to fixing it, so let’s go ahead with troubleshooting!
How to Troubleshoot the A20 Error Code
Prior to calling a repairman, use these DIY tips to fix the A20 error. Safety first: always switch off the dishwasher at the mains and turn off the water supply before attempting repairs.
Step 1: Check the Drain Hose
- Find the hose: It’s typically located at the back of the dishwasher, attached to your sink’s plumbing or garbage disposal.
- Check for kinks: Look for twists, pinches, or bends that may shut off the water flow. Straighten the hose if needed.
- Check for clogs: Drain the hose (place a towel under it to catch drips) and force water through it with a garden hose or sprayer on a sink. If water doesn’t flow freely, use a flexible brush or flush it out.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
- Find the filter: At the dishwasher’s bottom, open it up and locate the filter it will most likely be cylindrical or flat, twist or pull out.
- Unclog debris: Clean it in warm water and brush off food particles or grease using a soft bristled brush. Avoid the use of chemical cleaners that will destroy it.
- Replace securely: Fit it securely when reinstalling so that it won’t leak.
Step 3: Check for Hose Installation
- High loop check: The drain hose should form a high loop (a U shape) under your sink to prevent backflow. If it is flat or hanging too low, lift it at least 20 inches (50 cm) above the floor.
- Routing: Ensure that the hose is not entangled or excessively long excess length can trap water.
Step 4: Inspect the Waste Connection
- Sink drain test: Run the sink to determine if it drains properly. A slow or clogged sink indicates a plumbing problem that impacts the dishwasher.
- Garbage disposal: If installed, check that the disposal knockout plug was removed at installation (a frequent mistake). Remove any clogs using a plunger or disposal wrench.
Step 5: Test the Dishwasher
- Restart: Replug the dishwasher, turn on the water, and run a brief rinse cycle.
- Observe: Check if the water drains through and if the A20 error reappears. If it’s disappeared, hooray you’ve fixed it!
Step 6: Hear the Drain Pump (Optional)
- Listen for humming: While the drain is working, you should hear the pump running. A quiet or struggling pump may indicate failure.
- Advanced check: If you’re comfortable, tilt the dishwasher back (unplugged!) and inspect the pump for debris or damage. This step is trickier, so proceed with caution.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried everything and the A20 error persists, it might be time to call in the experts. Here’s when to seek help:
- The drain pump sounds dead or makes unusual noises (e.g., grinding).
- You suspect a plumbing issue beyond the dishwasher.
- Water still won’t drain despite a clear hose and filter.
Contact Fisher & Paykel Customer Care or a local appliance repair service with the error code handy they’ll appreciate the heads up!
Preventing the A20 Error in the Future
Once you’ve tackled the A20 error, keep your dishwasher running smoothly with these tips:
- Clean the filter monthly: A quick rinse prevents buildup.
- Use the right detergent: Stick with dishwasher detergents hand soap or too much rinse aid can cause foaming and drainage issues.
- Scrape plates: Remove large food pieces before loading to reduce clogs.
- Check the hose occasionally: A quick glance can detect kinks before they become a problem.
The Fisher & Paykel A20 code might seem daunting, but don’t worry it’s often just a simple matter of patience and a little hard work. Take a look at your drain hose, clean your filter, and ensure everything’s been installed just so, and your dishwasher should be shining again in no time. And if worst comes to worst, call a professional for some help your dishes (and your sanity) will thank you!
Have you ever experienced the A20 error in the past? Share your experience or tips in the comments section I’d be glad to know how you resolved it! And if you liked this tutorial, bookmark it for when your dishwasher goes off course again.