Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Error Code A3

The A3 code means the dishwasher was unable to drain water from the tub during a cycle. The control board detected that the drain operation did not complete successfully within the required time. This will pause or stop the active wash cycle and typically leaves standing water visible at the bottom of the tub.

A reset may clear the error code temporarily, but if the underlying drain problem has not been resolved, the A3 fault will return as soon as the dishwasher attempts to drain again. It is best to diagnose and fix the cause of the blockage or pump failure before running another cycle.

If the fix is a simple cleaning of the filter or clearing a kinked hose, there may be no parts cost at all. If the drain pump needs to be replaced, parts and labor can range from roughly $150 to $350 depending on your location and service rates. A professional diagnosis is recommended if basic checks do not resolve the fault.

Start by checking for standing water in the tub, then clean the filter and sump area at the bottom of the dishwasher. Next, inspect the drain hose for kinks, blockages, or a poor connection at the disposal or standpipe. If the drain path is clear and the error persists, the drain pump may need to be tested or replaced.

You should not continue running the dishwasher while A3 is active. Standing water in the tub can become unsanitary, and running the machine without resolving the drain fault risks water leaking onto the floor or straining the pump motor further. Address the drain issue before resuming use.