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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code HOT and COLD flashing

Both water supplies have an issue

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer codes

Both water supplies have an issue - faucets not turned on, inlet hose screens blocked, drain hose too low causing siphoning, or supply water flow rate too slow.

First step from the service manual

Check that both faucets have been turned on.

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

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What HOT and COLD flashing means on a Fisher & Paykel washer

When both the HOT and COLD indicators flash simultaneously on a Fisher & Paykel washer, the machine has detected that water is not entering the drum at an adequate rate from either supply line. The washer monitors incoming water flow during the fill phase, and when neither the hot nor the cold inlet meets the expected flow threshold, both indicators flash to signal a system-wide water supply problem rather than a fault isolated to one inlet valve or temperature circuit.

The most common triggers for this condition involve the physical supply setup rather than a failed component. Both water supply faucets must be fully open for the machine to fill correctly. If either faucet was inadvertently left closed or is only partially open, flow will be insufficient. Similarly, the inlet hose screens, which are small mesh filters seated where the hoses connect to the back of the washer, can accumulate mineral deposits and debris over time, restricting flow from both lines simultaneously.

A less obvious but important cause is drain hose positioning. If the drain hose is installed too low, water can siphon out of the tub as fast as it fills, creating the appearance of a fill failure even when supply pressure is adequate. The drain hose outlet must be positioned at the correct height as specified for the installation. Slow municipal or well water supply pressure can also trigger this condition if the flow rate falls below the minimum required for the fill cycle to complete within the expected time window.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of HOT and COLD flashing

  1. 01

    Supply faucets not fully open

    Wiring / connection

    If either or both of the hot and cold faucets behind the washer are closed or only partially open, the machine will not receive adequate water flow. Turn both faucets counterclockwise until fully open and restart the cycle.

  2. 02

    Blocked inlet hose screens

    Wiring / connection

    Each inlet hose connects to the washer through a small mesh filter screen that catches sediment and debris. Over time these screens can become clogged enough to restrict flow from both lines. Remove the hoses from the back of the washer, inspect the screens, and rinse or replace them as needed.

  3. 03

    Drain hose positioned too low causing siphoning

    Wiring / connection

    If the drain hose outlet is too close to the floor or lower than the required installation height, water will continuously siphon out of the tub during filling. Check that the drain hose is routed and secured at the correct height for your model.

  4. 04

    Insufficient household water supply pressure or flow rate

    Wiring / connection

    Low water pressure from the municipal supply or a private well can result in a fill rate too slow for the washer to complete its fill cycle within the expected window. Check other fixtures in the home for low pressure, and consider whether a whole-home pressure issue or partially closed main shutoff valve is involved.

  5. 05

    Faulty water inlet valve

    Part replacement

    If supply faucets, hose screens, and drain hose position have all been confirmed correct and the error persists, one or both solenoids in the water inlet valve assembly may have failed, preventing the valve from opening. This component would need to be tested and replaced if defective.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about HOT and COLD flashing

What does HOT and COLD flashing mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
When both the HOT and COLD indicators flash at the same time, the washer has detected that water is not entering the machine at a sufficient rate from either supply line. This points to a problem affecting both water supplies simultaneously, such as closed faucets, clogged inlet hose screens, a siphoning drain hose, or low household water pressure. It is a fill-related alert rather than a mechanical component failure in most cases.
How do I fix the HOT and COLD flashing error on my Fisher & Paykel washer?
Start by confirming that both the hot and cold water faucets behind the washer are turned fully on. Next, shut off the faucets, disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the machine, and inspect the small mesh screens inside the hose connections for buildup or debris, cleaning or replacing them as needed. Also verify that the drain hose is routed at the correct height to prevent siphoning. If all of these checks pass and the error continues, low household water pressure or a faulty inlet valve may be the cause.
Is it safe to continue using my washer when HOT and COLD are flashing?
The washer will not proceed with the wash cycle when this error is active, so there is no risk of running a cycle without water. However, you should resolve the underlying cause before attempting to run a load, as forcing repeated fill attempts with a restricted or siphoning setup can stress the inlet valve and other components over time.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear the HOT and COLD flashing error?
A reset may clear the displayed error temporarily, but if the root cause such as closed faucets, blocked screens, or an incorrectly positioned drain hose has not been corrected, the error will return as soon as the washer attempts to fill again. Address the underlying supply issue first, then restart the machine for a lasting fix.
How much does it cost to repair a Fisher & Paykel washer with the HOT and COLD flashing error?
In many cases there is no parts cost at all, since the fix involves simply opening the supply faucets, cleaning the inlet hose screens, or adjusting the drain hose height. If the water inlet valve has failed and needs replacement, parts typically range from around $30 to $90 depending on the model, with additional labor costs if a technician is needed. Diagnosing the simple causes yourself first can save significant repair expense.

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