Fisher & Paykel Washer, Dishwasher, Oven Error Code 49

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.