Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Code F3: water temperature too high

What F3 means

On Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer DD603 and DD605 series dishwashers, F3 means the controller sensed water hotter than 185 F (85 C). Incoming water that is too hot, a heating element stuck on, a temperature sensor or the controller can all be behind it. Power must be cycled to reset the isolation relay, and owners see the drawer stop mid-cycle.

Common causes of F3

Incoming water hotter than the DishDrawer allows
Heating element that stays on
Temperature sensor giving a wrong reading
Controller not switching the heater off

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Switch the unit off at its breaker to reset the isolation relay. 2. Check your water heater setting and keep incoming water below 149 F. 3. Wait for the drawer to cool, then restore power and run a short cycle. 4. If F3 returns, turn the breaker off and call us.

! Why to stop there

An element stuck on can overheat water and the tub.
Sensor and controller tests need the base opened.

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 DishDrawer & Dishwasher codes

F6Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Code F6: lid motors did not reach stall current F7Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Code F7: no lid motor current detected F8Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Code F8: ground leakage detected F9Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Code F9: power supply or controller error F30Fisher & Paykel Built-In Dishwasher Code F30: flooding switch activated F40Fisher & Paykel Built-In Dishwasher Code F40: water flow error F50Fisher & Paykel Built-In Dishwasher Code F50: electronics error F90Fisher & Paykel Built-In Dishwasher Code F90: data or electronics error

F3F3 questions

Why does F3 need a power cycle?

The controller trips an isolation relay when it senses unsafe heat. That relay stays open until power is removed and restored, so a simple door open and close does not clear F3.

What water temperature should I supply?

Keep the incoming hot water at or below 149 F. Hotter supply can trigger F3 by itself, so lowering the water heater setting is a safe, quick check.

Does F3 lock the other drawer?

On a double model, F3 is one of the codes that also stops the other drawer. We confirm which drawer is affected and quote a written price before repairs.