Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 1: Motor control module EEPROM write error

What 1 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart and EcoSmart top-load washers such as the WA37T26EW and WA42T26GW, and on SmartDrive top-loaders in Phase 1, code 1 means the motor control module hit an error while writing to an EEPROM address, the memory chip that stores the machine's settings. The cycle stops and the display shows the number instead of a normal countdown. The washer will usually not complete a wash until that memory is written correctly again.

Common causes of 1

Motor control module could not write to its EEPROM memory
Control electronics that lost or corrupted stored settings
A power disturbance while the module was saving data

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Press the power button to stop the cycle, then unplug the washer for one full minute. 2. Plug it back in and start a short rinse and spin with an empty drum. 3. Check that the outlet is working and that no extension cord or power strip is in use. 4. If the number returns, stop using the machine and book service. The memory is on the control module, which is not an owner repair.

! Why to stop there

The EEPROM sits on the motor control module and needs board-level work or a replacement module
Repeated restarts will not repair a memory write problem and can corrupt more stored settings
Opening the cabinet puts you near mains power and a moving drum

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

KEY LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "KEY LOC": control panel is locked no tAPFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "no tAP": water not reaching the washer out OF bALFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "out OF bAL": load needs rebalancing Sud LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "Sud LOC": too many suds, washer paused 248Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 248: Smart Pump top-up error 249Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 249: pump timed out, no level change 232Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 232: Communications timeout after 5 seconds 250Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 250: Smart Pump lost sync

11 questions

What does code 1 mean on my top-load washer?

It reports that the motor control module had an error writing to its EEPROM, the memory that keeps your washer's settings. It is a control electronics message rather than a water or load problem.

Can I clear it by unplugging the washer?

A one-minute power-down is worth trying once and sometimes clears a one-time glitch. If code 1 comes back on the next cycle, the memory write is failing repeatedly and the module needs a technician.

Does the washer need a new module?

Not always, but the module is where the problem lives. We inspect it, confirm the code, and give you a written price before replacing anything. Our work carries a 30-day workmanship warranty.