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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Dishwasher Oven Error Code 49

Faulty cold water valve

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven codes

Faulty cold water valve

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What 49 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven

Error code 49 on a Fisher & Paykel washer indicates a fault with the cold water inlet valve. This valve is an electrically operated solenoid component responsible for controlling the flow of cold water into the machine during fill cycles. When the control board detects an issue with the valve's operation or electrical circuit, it triggers error code 49 and typically halts the wash cycle to prevent overfilling or water damage.

The fault can originate in several areas: the solenoid coil within the valve itself may have failed open or short circuit, the wiring harness connecting the valve to the control board may have developed a break or poor connection, or the valve body may be physically blocked or stuck in an open or closed position. In some cases, low water pressure or a kinked supply hose can cause the valve to behave erratically, which the control system interprets as a valve fault.

Because this error involves the water inlet system, the control board monitors the valve's electrical response and cross-references it with water level sensor feedback. If the expected fill does not occur within a set timeframe, or the valve circuit reads outside normal parameters, code 49 is logged. Diagnosing this fault typically involves checking the solenoid coil resistance, inspecting wiring continuity to the valve, and confirming adequate water supply pressure before concluding the valve itself needs replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 49

  1. 01

    Failed solenoid coil in the cold water valve

    Part replacement

    The solenoid coil inside the inlet valve can burn out or fail, preventing the valve from opening or closing properly. This is the most frequent cause of code 49 and typically requires measuring coil resistance to confirm failure.

  2. 02

    Wiring harness fault or loose connector

    Wiring / connection

    A broken wire, corroded terminal, or loose connector between the control board and the cold water valve can interrupt the electrical signal. Inspect the harness along its full length and check connector seating at both ends.

  3. 03

    Valve blocked or stuck due to debris

    Wiring / connection

    Mineral scale or debris from the water supply can clog the valve screen or jam the valve mechanism. Check the inlet filter screen for blockage and clean or replace as needed.

  4. 04

    Insufficient water supply pressure

    Wiring / connection

    If household water pressure is too low, the valve cannot open fully and the control board may register this as a valve fault. Verify that the cold water supply tap is fully open and that inlet hoses are not kinked.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the control board itself may fail to correctly drive or sense the cold water valve circuit, generating a false code 49. This is typically only considered after the valve and wiring have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 49

What does 49 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer, dishwasher, oven?
Error code 49 on a Fisher & Paykel washer signals a fault with the cold water inlet valve, which controls the flow of cold water into the machine. The appliance stops the cycle to prevent potential overfilling or water-related damage. The fault can involve the valve's solenoid coil, its wiring, or the water supply itself. A technician should inspect the valve circuit and supply conditions to pinpoint the exact cause.
Can I fix error code 49 on my Fisher & Paykel washer myself?
Some causes of error 49 can be addressed without professional help, such as checking that the cold water tap is fully open, straightening a kinked supply hose, and cleaning the inlet filter screen. However, testing the solenoid coil resistance or replacing the valve requires basic electrical knowledge and access to internal components, so less experienced users should consider calling a technician for those steps.
Is it safe to use my washer while error code 49 is showing?
It is not recommended to continue using the washer while code 49 is active. The machine has detected a problem with its cold water supply valve, and running a cycle could result in incomplete fills, cycle failures, or in some fault scenarios, uncontrolled water flow. Leave the washer off until the fault has been diagnosed and resolved.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear error code 49?
Resetting the washer by powering it off and back on may temporarily clear the error code, but the fault will almost certainly return if the underlying cause has not been corrected. A reset is useful as a first step to confirm whether the issue is intermittent, but it does not fix a failed solenoid, damaged wiring, or a blocked valve.
How much does it cost to repair error code 49 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Repair costs depend on what is causing the fault. Cleaning a blocked inlet screen or reconnecting a loose wire connector is low cost and often requires no parts. Replacing the cold water inlet valve typically involves parts costs in the range of $40 to $120, plus labor if a technician is called. If the control board is at fault, parts and labor costs will be higher, generally ranging from $150 to $350 or more depending on the model.

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