Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Top-Load Code 253: SmartPump drawing high current

What 253 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart top-load washers with a SmartPump, code 253 is a SmartPump over-current error. The Motor Control Module detected the smart pump drawing high current, so it shuts the pump circuit off to protect itself. The washer stops during pumping or draining and shows 253. The tub may still hold some water until a technician drains it.

Common causes of 253

SmartPump drawing excess current
Debris or a blockage making the pump work too hard
Pump wiring or Motor Control Module output problem

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn the washer off and switch off its breaker. 2. Check the drain hose for kinks and make sure the standpipe is not blocked. 3. Restore power and select drain/spin. 4. If 253 returns, stop using the washer and call us; any water in the tub will need draining by a technician.

! Why to stop there

The SmartPump sits inside the cabinet and may hold water.
A blocked pump and a failing pump look alike from outside.
We quote in writing first and cover the work with a 30-day workmanship warranty.

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.

→Same appliance

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 233Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 233: EEPROM read error from the motor control module 250Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 250: Smart Pump lost sync 234Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 234: Lid lock open circuit 252Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 252: motor bridge test failed

253253 questions

What does over-current mean for a pump?

The pump is pulling more electrical current than it should. The control cuts power to it, then shows 253. Causes range from blockage to a failing pump.

Could a blocked hose cause it?

A kinked or blocked drain can make the pump work harder, so check the hose first. A clear drain with a repeat of 253 points at the pump or control.

Is it safe to run another cycle?

We suggest not to. A pump drawing high current can overheat and put stress on the control board. A repeat could damage the control further.