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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code 249

SmartPump timeout fault

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer codes

SmartPump timeout fault - water level has not changed for 3 minutes while draining, generally pump system blockage or restriction.

First step from the service manual

Check that the drain hose has not been kinked.

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

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What 249 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer

Error code 249 on a Fisher & Paykel washer is a SmartPump timeout fault. It triggers when the water level sensor detects no change in water level for a continuous 3-minute period while the machine is actively attempting to drain. The SmartPump system monitors drain progress in real time, and when water is not evacuating at an expected rate, the control board logs this fault and halts the cycle to prevent potential overflow or mechanical damage.

The most common root cause is a blockage or restriction somewhere in the drain circuit. This includes the drain hose, the pump filter or coin trap, or the pump impeller itself. Foreign objects such as coins, lint accumulation, or small garments can lodge in the pump housing or filter and prevent the impeller from moving water effectively. A kinked or improperly routed drain hose is also a frequent culprit, as it can create enough back-pressure to stall drainage entirely.

Less commonly, the fault can point to a failing pump motor that lacks sufficient torque to evacuate water within the expected window, or a blocked household standpipe that creates a siphon restriction. Because the fault is specifically tied to no water level change over 3 minutes rather than an immediate pump failure signal, intermittent or partial blockages are especially worth investigating before condemning the pump itself.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 249

  1. 01

    Kinked or pinched drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    If the drain hose has been bent sharply or compressed behind the machine, water cannot flow freely and drainage stalls. Pull the washer away from the wall and inspect the full length of the hose for any kinks or tight bends.

  2. 02

    Blocked pump filter or coin trap

    Wiring / connection

    Lint, coins, hair, and small debris accumulate in the pump filter over time and can restrict or fully block water flow. Locate the filter access panel, remove the filter, and clean out any debris.

  3. 03

    Foreign object in pump impeller

    Wiring / connection

    Small items like buttons, coins, or fabric fragments can pass the filter and jam the pump impeller, preventing it from spinning. Accessing and clearing the pump housing is required to resolve this.

  4. 04

    Blocked or poorly positioned standpipe

    Wiring / connection

    If the household drain standpipe is clogged or the drain hose is inserted too deeply into it, a siphon effect or back-pressure can prevent proper drainage. Check that the drain hose is inserted no more than the recommended depth and that the standpipe itself is clear.

  5. 05

    Failed or weakened drain pump motor

    Part replacement

    If the pump motor has worn bearings or a failing winding, it may run but lack enough torque to move water within the 3-minute window. If all blockages have been cleared and the fault persists, the pump assembly likely needs replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 249

What does 249 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Error code 249 is a SmartPump timeout fault. It means the washer detected no change in water level for 3 consecutive minutes while trying to drain. The control board stops the cycle and displays this code to indicate a blockage or restriction in the pump system. The most common causes are a kinked drain hose, a clogged pump filter, or a foreign object in the pump impeller.
How do I fix error code 249 on my Fisher & Paykel washer?
Start by checking the drain hose for any kinks or tight bends, and straighten it if needed. Next, locate and clean the pump filter or coin trap, removing any lint, coins, or debris. If the error persists after those steps, check the pump impeller for obstructions and verify that the household standpipe is not blocked or causing a siphon. If everything in the drain circuit appears clear and the fault continues, the drain pump motor may need to be tested and potentially replaced.
Is it safe to use my Fisher & Paykel washer when error 249 is showing?
It is not recommended to continue running the washer while error 249 is active. The machine has already halted the cycle because it cannot drain properly, and forcing another cycle could leave standing water in the drum or stress the pump motor further. Resolve the drainage blockage before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair error code 249 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
If the cause is a kinked hose or a clogged filter, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. If a foreign object has jammed the pump impeller and a technician is needed, expect a service call fee in the range of $80 to $150. Replacing a failed drain pump assembly, including parts and labor, typically runs between $150 and $350 depending on your location and parts availability.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear error code 249?
Resetting the washer may clear the displayed code temporarily, but it will not resolve the underlying problem. If the blockage or restriction causing the drainage failure is still present, the fault will return as soon as the machine attempts to drain again. The physical cause must be identified and corrected before the error will stay cleared.

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