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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Error Code U6

Spray arm may have become dislodged from the rotor, or the water supply pressure to the product is too low…

Spray arm may have become dislodged from the rotor, or the water supply pressure to the product is too low (fill timeout after 175 seconds).

First step from the service manual

Check to ensure that the spray arm is correctly located on the motor rotor and that the motor rotor is correctly installed in the motor housing.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What U6 means on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher

The U6 error code on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher indicates one of two related conditions: the spray arm has become dislodged from the motor rotor, or the dishwasher has failed to fill with water within the 175-second timeout window. Both conditions can prevent the wash cycle from operating correctly. The control system monitors the fill process and the mechanical integrity of the wash system, triggering U6 when either fault is detected.

The spray arm and motor rotor work together as a closely coupled assembly. The spray arm must be securely seated on the rotor for the system to detect proper water circulation and for wash performance to be maintained. If the arm becomes unseated, the rotor may spin without driving water through the spray arm jets, and the control system will flag this as a fault. Physical inspection of the spray arm seating and the rotor housing should always be the first step before investigating water supply issues.

If the spray arm and rotor assembly are correctly installed and the error persists, the cause is likely a water supply problem. Low inlet water pressure or a restricted or closed water supply valve can prevent the dishwasher from reaching the required fill level within 175 seconds, triggering the timeout. The inlet water valve screen can also accumulate debris over time, reducing flow rate. Household water pressure below the minimum required specification will produce the same result.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of U6

  1. 01

    Spray arm dislodged from motor rotor

    Wiring / connection

    The spray arm can become unseated from the rotor during operation or when loading dishes. Inspect the spray arm to confirm it is fully and correctly snapped onto the motor rotor and that the rotor itself is seated properly in the motor housing.

  2. 02

    Low household water supply pressure

    Wiring / connection

    If water pressure to the home or at the dishwasher supply line is insufficient, the unit will not fill within the 175-second limit and will trigger U6. Check whether other fixtures in the home are also experiencing low pressure.

  3. 03

    Water supply valve closed or partially closed

    Wiring / connection

    The shutoff valve under the sink that feeds the dishwasher may be partially or fully closed, restricting flow. Confirm the valve is fully open and that the supply hose is not kinked.

  4. 04

    Blocked inlet valve filter screen

    Wiring / connection

    The water inlet valve contains a fine mesh screen that can accumulate mineral deposits and debris over time, significantly reducing flow rate into the tub. The screen can typically be removed and rinsed clean, though a damaged or failed inlet valve will require replacement.

  5. 05

    Faulty water inlet valve

    Part replacement

    If the inlet valve solenoid has failed, it may not open fully or at all, preventing adequate water fill regardless of supply pressure. A failed inlet valve requires replacement and typically costs between $30 and $80 for the part alone.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about U6

What does U6 mean on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
The U6 code means the dishwasher has detected that the spray arm may have come loose from the motor rotor, or that the appliance failed to fill with water within the 175-second timeout period. Both conditions prevent the wash cycle from completing. The code is the control system's way of alerting you to a mechanical or water supply problem that needs attention before the next cycle can run.
How do I fix a U6 error on my Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
Start by opening the dishwasher and checking that the spray arm is firmly seated on the motor rotor and that the rotor is correctly installed in its housing. If the spray arm assembly looks correct, check that the water supply valve under the sink is fully open and that the inlet hose is not kinked. If those steps do not resolve the error, inspect the inlet valve filter screen for blockage or consider testing the inlet valve itself for proper operation.
Is it safe to use my dishwasher when it shows a U6 error?
You should not attempt to run a wash cycle while the U6 error is active. If the spray arm is dislodged, water will not be distributed correctly and dishes will not be cleaned. If the fill timeout has triggered, the dishwasher may not have enough water to operate safely. Resolve the underlying cause before starting another cycle.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear a U6 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code, but if the underlying problem has not been fixed, the U6 code will return when the dishwasher attempts to fill or run a cycle again. Resetting without addressing the spray arm seating or the water supply issue is not a lasting solution. Always inspect and correct the root cause first.
How much will it cost to repair a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher with a U6 error?
If the cause is simply a dislodged spray arm or a closed supply valve, there is no parts cost involved. If the water inlet valve needs to be replaced, parts typically range from $30 to $80 depending on the model, with additional labor costs if a technician is needed. If the motor rotor or spray arm components are damaged and require replacement, costs will vary based on part availability and the extent of the damage.

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