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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code 36

Water Leak Fault

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer codes

Water Leak Fault - The Motor Controller module has needed to top up the water level more than 4 times during agitate, indicating siphoning or a leak.

First step from the service manual

Check the height of the drain hose outlet (min 33.4 in / 850mm, max 47 in / 1200mm); check hose guide is fitted and hose does not protrude more than 3/4 in beyond guide.

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

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What 36 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer

Error code 36 on a Fisher & Paykel washer is a Water Leak Fault triggered by the Motor Controller module. During the agitate cycle, the controller continuously monitors the water level inside the drum. If the water level drops and the machine is forced to top up the water more than four times within a single agitate cycle, the controller logs this fault and halts operation. The repeated top-ups indicate that water is leaving the tub faster than normal operation would account for, pointing to either a siphoning condition or an active leak somewhere in the system.

Siphoning is the most common cause and is directly related to drain hose installation. If the drain hose outlet is positioned too low, water can continuously drain out by gravity or siphon action, causing the tub to lose water even while the machine is running. Fisher & Paykel specifies a minimum drain hose outlet height of 33.4 inches (850mm) and a maximum of 47 inches (1200mm). Additionally, the hose guide must be fitted correctly, and the hose must not protrude more than 3/4 inch beyond the guide. Incorrect positioning at either extreme can allow continuous siphoning during the wash cycle.

If drain hose height and positioning check out, the fault points toward a genuine water leak. Potential leak sources include a deteriorated door seal or tub seal, loose or cracked hose connections between the fill valve, tub, and pump, or a failing water inlet valve that does not fully close. A cracked tub or damaged pump housing can also result in gradual water loss sufficient to trigger this error repeatedly. Inspecting the cabinet interior and floor beneath the machine for moisture is a logical next step after ruling out the siphoning scenario.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 36

  1. 01

    Drain hose installed at incorrect height

    Wiring / connection

    If the drain hose outlet sits below 33.4 inches (850mm) or above 47 inches (1200mm), water can siphon continuously out of the tub during agitation. Measure the outlet height from the floor and reposition if outside the specified range.

  2. 02

    Drain hose protruding too far beyond the hose guide

    Wiring / connection

    The drain hose must not extend more than 3/4 inch past the hose guide, and the guide must be properly fitted. Excess protrusion allows siphoning regardless of correct outlet height.

  3. 03

    Leaking or loose hose connections

    Part replacement

    Hoses connecting the water inlet valve, tub, and pump can develop loose clamps or cracks over time, allowing water to drip out during operation. Inspect all hose connections inside the cabinet for moisture or mineral deposits indicating a slow leak.

  4. 04

    Failed or worn tub seal or door seal

    Part replacement

    A deteriorated tub seal or outer drum seal allows water to escape from the tub during the agitate cycle. Look for water pooling beneath the machine or visible damage to rubber sealing components.

  5. 05

    Faulty water inlet valve not fully closing

    Part replacement

    A water inlet valve that fails to seat properly can cause overfill or uncontrolled water movement, but a valve that partially sticks open can also contribute to abnormal water level behavior. If other causes are ruled out, the inlet valve should be tested and replaced if it does not close fully.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 36

What does 36 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Error code 36 is a Water Leak Fault. It means the Motor Controller had to refill the tub with water more than four times during the agitate cycle, indicating that water is leaving the tub due to siphoning or a physical leak. The machine halts to prevent further water loss or potential damage. Checking the drain hose installation is the first recommended diagnostic step.
How do I fix error code 36 on my Fisher & Paykel washer?
Start by verifying the drain hose outlet height is between 33.4 inches (850mm) and 47 inches (1200mm), that the hose guide is properly fitted, and that the hose does not protrude more than 3/4 inch past the guide. If the installation is correct, inspect inside the cabinet for signs of moisture, leaking hoses, loose clamps, or damaged seals. Fixing siphoning issues requires no parts, but leaks from hoses or seals will require replacement components.
Will resetting the washer clear error code 36?
A reset may clear the error temporarily and allow the machine to restart, but the fault will return if the underlying cause is not corrected. If the drain hose is improperly positioned or a leak is present, the Motor Controller will detect water loss again during the next agitate cycle and trigger the fault again. Always resolve the root cause before relying on a reset.
Is it safe to keep using my Fisher & Paykel washer when error code 36 appears?
It is not recommended to continue running the machine while this error is active. The fault indicates water is escaping the system, which can cause water damage to flooring and surrounding structures. If a leak from a hose or seal is the cause, running additional cycles will worsen the problem. Diagnose and resolve the issue before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair error code 36 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
If the fault is caused by incorrect drain hose positioning, the fix costs nothing beyond your time to adjust the installation. If replacement parts are needed, hoses and hose clamps are relatively inexpensive, typically in the range of $10 to $40. Tub seals and inlet valves can range from $30 to $120 or more depending on the model, and labor costs from a repair technician will add to that total.

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