Hotpoint dishwasher F5 error

[js6969]

Hi. I have a Hotpoint FDFEX 11011 G dishwasher about 6 years old and never had problems before. The F5 error started a few weeks ago so there's a problem with the drain pump. The cycle starts but stalls after about 5 minutes. Then if you turn it all off and start the cycle again it works OK.

Drainage pipe isn't blocked. I have about an inch of residual water in the filter drain but I gather that's OK because it stops the seals from drying out.

Before I swap out the drain pump for a new one is there anything else to look at given it works OK after a restart?

Oh, my level of expertise is not an expert but competent at fixing quite a few things.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[blup]

I have never had any luck changing pumps and end up getting a new machine with as long a warranty as is available.

You said "Code F5 so there is a problem with drain pump", but it might also be an intermittent level sensor fault which tells the machine it is over full/flooding when the fresh water is pumped in at the start of the washing cycle. It corrects itself when you restart it.

Blup

 

[js6969]

Thanks Blup. Is the level sensor something you can swap out yourself as a competent DIYer or does it need a professional?

 

[blup]

There are plenty of videos of youtube but getting one that matches your make and model is the challenge.

Blup

 

[js6969]

It looks like rain tomorrow. Just perfect for trolling YouTube then! Thanks.

 

[js6969]

Blup you're a genius! Sorry for delayed reply but a £16 level sensor from Hotpoint was just what it needed. I am being philosophical and treating the unneccesary £54 drain pump as a future repair already avoided. Thanks verrrrry much for your advice.

 

[foxhole]

The level sensor can be tricked by grease, sometimes all that is required is some washing liquid and boiling water.

 

[Ckeware]

Where is the level sensor located please?

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

Where is the level sensor located please?

Generally near the top of the case of the machine, with two wires on it, with a pipe running down to the lowest part of the machine.

The sensor takes the form of a diaphragm, which has a microswitch at the back of it. Water level rises, goes up the pipe, forcing air up the pipe against the diaphragm, diaphragm then operates the switch at a preset pressure - of fill level.

Sometimes the pipe can become choked with debris, the easy fix is to disconnect from the pressure switch, and blow/flush out from the top end.