Fisher & Paykel Refrigerator Error Code 1

Error code 1 means the refrigerator's compressor failed to start after 6 attempts by the control system. The system stops trying to start the compressor and displays this code to flag the fault. The refrigerator will not be cooling effectively when this code is active. A technician needs to check the compressor windings and the power/control module to determine which component has failed.

No, it is not safe to rely on the refrigerator for food storage when error code 1 is active. The compressor is not running, which means the appliance is not maintaining safe cooling temperatures. Perishable food should be moved to another refrigerator or cooler until the fault is repaired.

Repair costs vary significantly depending on which component has failed. Replacing the power/control module is generally the less expensive option, typically ranging from around $150 to $400 including parts and labor. Compressor replacement is a major repair involving refrigerant recovery and recharge, and costs can range from $400 to $900 or more depending on the model and local labor rates. In some cases, the repair cost may approach the value of an older unit, making replacement worth considering.

Diagnosing this code requires testing the compressor windings with a multimeter, which is within reach of a skilled DIYer with proper tools and safety precautions. However, if the compressor itself has failed, replacing it involves working with the sealed refrigeration system, which requires EPA-certified refrigerant handling. Replacing the power/control module is a less complex repair that some experienced DIYers can manage. Most homeowners should contact a qualified appliance technician for this fault.

A reset may temporarily clear the code, but the fault will return if the underlying problem with the compressor or control module is not addressed. The code appears only after the system has already made 6 failed start attempts, so the failure is confirmed rather than intermittent. A reset alone is not a fix and should not be relied on to restore cooling.