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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code 246

Wash boost / bleach valve fault

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer codes

Wash boost / bleach valve fault: bleach valve detected as faulty via valve diagnostic circuit.

First step from the service manual

Check the valve harness is correctly fastened to the valve or the pins are not bent backwards.

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

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What 246 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer

Error code 246 on a Fisher & Paykel washer indicates a fault with the wash boost or bleach valve, detected through the machine's internal valve diagnostic circuit. This circuit monitors the electrical characteristics of each valve during operation. When the control board sends a signal to the bleach valve and the response falls outside expected parameters, code 246 is triggered. This can occur due to an open circuit, a short circuit, or incorrect resistance across the valve solenoid.

The bleach valve is a solenoid-operated water inlet valve responsible for dispensing bleach or wash boost additives into the drum at the appropriate cycle stage. The valve diagnostic circuit checks for proper solenoid continuity and correct electrical response. A fault can originate at the valve solenoid itself, in the wiring harness connecting the valve to the control board, or at the connector pins where the harness attaches to the valve body.

The first area to inspect is the harness connection at the valve. A loose connector or bent pins at the harness-to-valve interface can interrupt the circuit and produce this fault code without any actual solenoid failure. After confirming the harness is properly seated and the pins are straight and undamaged, further diagnosis should focus on the solenoid coil resistance and continuity, as well as the wiring between the valve and the control board for any breaks or chafing.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 246

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected valve harness connector

    Wiring / connection

    The harness connector at the bleach valve may not be fully seated, causing an intermittent or open circuit. Pressing the connector firmly into place and verifying it clicks securely is the first step.

  2. 02

    Bent or damaged connector pins

    Wiring / connection

    Pins inside the harness connector can become bent backward during handling or a previous repair, preventing proper electrical contact with the valve. Inspect each pin visually and straighten or replace as needed.

  3. 03

    Failed bleach valve solenoid

    Part replacement

    The solenoid coil inside the valve can burn out or develop an open or short circuit, causing the diagnostic circuit to flag a fault. A multimeter check of the solenoid coil resistance will confirm whether the valve itself has failed.

  4. 04

    Damaged or broken wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the control board and the bleach valve can chafe, break, or short against the cabinet over time. Inspect the full harness run for visible damage, especially near sharp edges or moving components.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    If the valve, harness, and connector all test correctly, the valve diagnostic circuit on the control board itself may be faulty. This is the least common cause and should only be considered after all other components are ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 246

What does 246 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Error code 246 means the washer's valve diagnostic circuit has detected a fault with the bleach or wash boost valve. The control board monitors the electrical response of this valve and triggers the code when the response is outside acceptable limits. This can be caused by a loose harness connection, bent pins, a failed solenoid, or damaged wiring.
Can I fix error code 246 myself?
Some causes of error 246 are DIY-friendly. Start by checking that the harness connector is firmly attached to the bleach valve and that none of the pins are bent backward. If the connection looks secure and the code persists, testing the valve solenoid with a multimeter is the next step, which requires basic electrical knowledge. A failed solenoid or damaged harness may require part replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my washer when error 246 appears?
Error 246 specifically affects the bleach or wash boost dispenser valve. The machine may still complete wash cycles, but the bleach or additive dispenser will likely not function correctly. It is generally safe to run the washer for regular cycles without additives, but continuing to use it without diagnosis could mask a wiring issue that may worsen over time.
How much does it cost to repair error code 246 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
If only the harness connector needs reseating, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing the bleach valve solenoid or valve assembly typically costs between $30 and $90 for the part. If a technician is needed for diagnosis and repair, total costs including labor generally range from $100 to $250 depending on your location and the extent of the fault.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear error code 246?
A reset may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying fault is still present, such as a loose connector, damaged wiring, or a failed solenoid, the code will return when the diagnostic circuit runs again. Resetting without addressing the root cause is not a lasting fix. Always inspect the harness and valve before assuming a reset has resolved the issue.

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