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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Dryer Error Code 151

Drum failure (alternate display code for E7).

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel dryer codes

Drum failure (alternate display code for E7).

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What 151 means on a Fisher & Paykel dryer

Error code 151 on a Fisher & Paykel dryer is an alternate display code for E7, indicating a drum failure. This means the control system has detected a problem with the drum's operation, either in its rotation, the motor driving it, or the components responsible for detecting drum movement. The dryer's electronic control board monitors drum behavior throughout the cycle, and when it receives an abnormal signal or no signal at all from the relevant sensing circuit, it triggers this fault code and halts operation to prevent further damage.

Drum failure faults typically involve the drum motor, the motor's start capacitor, the drive belt, or the drum rotation sensor. If the drum is not spinning when it should be, the control board interprets this as a failure condition. A seized drum, a snapped or slipped drive belt, or a failed motor can all present as code 151. In some configurations, the drum position or rotation feedback circuit may also be implicated.

Because code 151 shares its underlying meaning with E7, both codes should be approached with the same diagnostic process. Technicians should inspect the drum for physical obstructions or bearing seizure, check the integrity of the drive belt, test the motor windings for continuity and correct resistance, and evaluate the capacitor if the motor is present but fails to start. The control board itself should be considered only after mechanical and motor-related causes have been ruled out.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 151

  1. 01

    Broken or slipped drive belt

    Part replacement

    The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it snaps or slips off the drum, the drum will not rotate and the control board will log a drum failure fault. You can often confirm this by manually trying to spin the drum with the dryer unplugged, as a drum with no belt will spin very freely.

  2. 02

    Failed drum motor

    Part replacement

    The motor is responsible for driving drum rotation. If the motor windings have failed or the motor has seized, the drum will not turn and code 151 will be triggered. Testing motor winding continuity and resistance with a multimeter can help confirm this fault.

  3. 03

    Faulty start capacitor

    Part replacement

    The start capacitor provides the initial electrical boost to get the motor spinning. A failed capacitor can prevent the motor from starting even if the motor itself is in good condition. This component should be tested when a motor failure is suspected but the windings test normal.

  4. 04

    Drum obstruction or seized drum bearings

    Wiring / connection

    Physical blockages inside the drum or worn and seized drum support bearings can prevent the drum from rotating freely. This places excessive load on the motor and drive system, potentially triggering the fault. Check for items caught between the drum and cabinet, and assess bearing condition by rotating the drum by hand.

  5. 05

    Defective control board

    Part replacement

    If the motor, belt, capacitor, and drum bearings all test correctly, the electronic control board may be misreading or failing to receive rotation feedback signals. The control board is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other components have been evaluated.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 151

What does 151 mean on a Fisher & Paykel dryer?
Code 151 indicates a drum failure and is an alternate display for the E7 fault code on Fisher & Paykel dryers. It means the control board has detected that the drum is not operating as expected, which could involve the drum motor, drive belt, start capacitor, or drum rotation sensing. The dryer will typically stop running when this code appears.
Can I fix error code 151 on my Fisher & Paykel dryer myself?
Some causes of code 151 are within reach of a confident DIYer. Checking for drum obstructions, inspecting the drive belt for breakage, and visually assessing belt alignment are reasonable starting points with the dryer unplugged. Motor and capacitor testing requires a multimeter and comfort working with electrical components. Control board replacement is generally best left to a qualified technician.
Is it safe to use my Fisher & Paykel dryer when code 151 is showing?
No, you should not attempt to run the dryer while code 151 is active. The fault indicates the drum is not functioning correctly, and continuing to operate the appliance could cause further damage to the motor, drive components, or control board. Keep the dryer unplugged until the fault has been diagnosed and repaired.
How much does it cost to repair a Fisher & Paykel dryer showing error code 151?
Repair costs vary depending on the faulty component. A replacement drive belt is typically a lower-cost fix, generally in the range of $20 to $60 for parts. Motor or capacitor replacement will cost more, with parts and labor potentially ranging from $150 to $350 or higher depending on your location and the specific model. Control board replacement tends to be the most expensive repair option.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel dryer clear error code 151?
A power reset may temporarily clear the code, but it will return as soon as the dryer attempts to run and encounters the same drum failure condition. Code 151 reflects an underlying mechanical or electrical fault that a reset cannot resolve. The root cause must be identified and repaired before the dryer will operate normally again.

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