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Hotpoint Washing Machine Error Codes F01–F18: Complete Troubleshooting Guide, Causes, Solutions and Repair Advice

Hotpoint washing machines are widely used in the UK and Europe, and many electronically controlled models use F-series fault codes to help identify problems ...

Bison Technical Team Enterprise IT specialists

Updated 26 Aug 2026 15 min read 0 total views

Hotpoint washing machines are widely used in the UK and Europe, and many electronically controlled models use F-series fault codes to help identify problems involving the motor, heater, drain pump, door locking system, temperature sensing system and electronic control modules.

An error such as F01, F05, F08 or F18 should not automatically be interpreted as proof that a particular component must be replaced. A fault code identifies the circuit or operating condition in which the appliance detected a problem. The actual cause can be something as simple as a blocked drain hose or loose connector, or as complex as a failed motor, heater or electronic control board.

Hotpoint's current UK washing-machine troubleshooting information officially lists F01, F02, F03, F05, F06, F07, F08, F09, F11, F12, F13, F15, F16 and F18 for washing machines.

This distinction is important because F04, F10, F14 and F17 are not currently included in Hotpoint UK's general washing-machine F-code list. Codes can vary according to appliance generation, platform and market, so those codes should not be assigned a universal meaning without checking the exact model's technical documentation.

Important: Check the Exact Hotpoint Model First

Before troubleshooting any F-code, record:

Full model number
Serial number
Whether the appliance is a washing machine or washer dryer
Front-loading or top-loading configuration
Exact error displayed
Which indicator lights are flashing
Stage of the programme when the fault occurs
Whether water remains inside the drum
Whether the drum rotates
Whether the appliance heats
Whether the door locks normally

Hotpoint itself advises owners to refer to the appliance manual when interpreting washing-machine errors because the displayed fault relates to the specific appliance.

This is particularly important with older Hotpoint platforms.

Hotpoint Error Code Quick Reference

Code	General Fault Area
F01	Electronic circuit board fault
F02	Motor circuit fault
F03	Temperature sensing fault
F04	Model/platform-specific – verify documentation
F05	Waste pipe blockage or pump/drain issue
F06	Door lock fault
F07	Electronic circuit board/heating circuit fault
F08	Heater fault
F09	Software fault
F10	Model/platform-specific – verify documentation
F11	Pump circuit fault
F12	Electronic control fault
F13	Dryer temperature sensing fault – washer dryers
F14	Model/platform-specific – verify documentation
F15	Heater control fault
F16	Drum lock position sensor fault – top loaders
F17	Model/platform-specific – verify documentation
F18	Internal data error

The officially listed meanings above follow Hotpoint UK's current washing-machine error-code guidance.

F01 – Electronic Circuit Board Fault

What F01 Means

Hotpoint identifies F01 as an electronic circuit board fault.

Typical symptoms can include:

Washing machine does not operate
Controls become unresponsive
Some programmes cannot be selected
Machine fails to start correctly
Fault returns immediately after power-up

First Troubleshooting Step

Hotpoint recommends:

Switch the washing machine off.
Disconnect it from the mains.
Leave it disconnected for at least 2 minutes.
Reconnect the power.
Wait approximately 30 seconds.
Try starting the appliance again.

This procedure comes directly from Hotpoint's F01 guidance.

If F01 repeatedly returns, professional diagnosis of the electronic control system is recommended.

F02 – Motor Circuit Fault

What F02 Means

Hotpoint identifies F02 as a motor circuit fault.

The primary symptom is:

Intermittent drum rotation or no drum rotation during the wash cycle.

Possible areas requiring technician investigation include:

Motor
Motor wiring
Electrical connectors
Motor feedback system
Control electronics

User Checks

Disconnect the machine from power before inspection.

Check whether:

The drum rotates freely by hand
Laundry is excessively overloaded
A foreign object is mechanically obstructing the drum

Persistent F02 normally requires electrical diagnosis rather than random component replacement.

F03 – Temperature Sensing Fault

What F03 Means

Hotpoint defines F03 as a temperature sensing fault.

The appliance may fail to heat correctly during washing or, where applicable, drying.

The temperature-control system can involve:

Temperature sensor/thermistor
Sensor wiring
Connectors
Heating system
Electronic controller

A technician can test the sensor and wiring electrically and compare measurements with specifications for the exact model.

F04 – Verify Against Exact Model

F04 should not be given one universal Hotpoint washing-machine definition.

Hotpoint UK's current general washing-machine error-code page does not list F04 among its standard codes.

If your machine displays F04:

Record the complete model number.
Photograph the display or flashing-light pattern.
Check the appliance manual.
Use model-specific service information.
Do not replace a pressure sensor, PCB or another component solely because a generic internet list assigns that meaning to F04.

This prevents incorrect diagnosis across different Hotpoint platforms.

F05 – Waste Pipe Blockage or Pump Issue

F05 is one of the most useful Hotpoint codes for DIY troubleshooting.

Hotpoint describes F05 as a waste-pipe blockage or pump issue.

Typical symptoms include:

Water remains inside the drum
Washing machine fails to drain
Door remains locked
Programme stops before completion
Machine may refuse to spin

Hotpoint recommends checking the pump filter where the model has a user-accessible filter, the waste-water hose and the under-sink plumbing for blockages.

Troubleshooting F05

1. Switch Off the Machine

Disconnect the appliance from the mains.

2. Check the Drain Hose

Look for:

Kinks
Crushing
Twisting
Blockages
Incorrect routing

3. Check Under-Sink Plumbing

If connected beneath a kitchen sink, make sure the waste connection is not obstructed by food, grease or other debris.

Hotpoint specifically identifies blocked under-sink plumbing and drain hoses as possible reasons a washing machine will not empty.

4. Check the Pump Filter

If your model has a user-serviceable filter, follow the manual before opening it.

Warning: Water may escape when the filter is removed.

5. Consider Pump Failure

If the drainage path is clear but the appliance still cannot pump water out, the drain pump or its electrical circuit may require testing.

F06 – Door Lock Fault

Hotpoint identifies F06 as a door lock fault.

Possible symptoms include:

Door will not close
Door cannot be opened normally
Programme will not start
Door appears closed but the machine does not recognise it

Hotpoint recommends first checking the door-lock area for an obstruction.

Check for:

Clothing trapped between door and seal
Debris around the latch
Damaged door handle
Misaligned door
Damaged latch
Door-lock mechanism problem

Do not bypass or electrically defeat the door interlock. It is an important safety device.

F07 – Electronic Circuit Board / Heating Circuit Fault

Hotpoint describes F07 as an electronic circuit board fault/heating circuit fault.

Typical symptoms include:

Programme pauses partway through washing
Water does not heat
Drain pump may continue running

Hotpoint recommends professional service when this fault remains.

A technician may investigate:

Heater circuit
Heater wiring
Electronic controller
Connectors
Associated sensing circuitry

F08 – Heater Fault

Hotpoint identifies F08 as a heater fault.

A common reported symptom is that the washing programme pauses partway through the cycle.

Potential diagnostic areas include:

Heating element
Heater connections
Wiring harness
Heater control circuit
Related electronic components

Because heater testing involves mains-voltage circuitry and electrical measurements, internal testing should be performed by a competent person.

F09 – Software Fault

Hotpoint defines F09 as a software fault.

Symptoms may include:

Machine does not operate
Multiple lights flash
Display behaves abnormally
Programme cannot be selected

Hotpoint recommends professional repair for persistent F09 faults.

A recurring software/control fault can require investigation of the electronic control system rather than mechanical parts such as the pump or motor.

F10 – Verify Against Exact Model

F10 is another code where model verification is essential.

It is not included in Hotpoint UK's current general washing-machine F-code list.

Do not confuse appliance categories either. For example, Hotpoint uses F10 for a heating-element fault on certain dishwashers, demonstrating why a code found online should never automatically be transferred from one appliance category to another.

If a Hotpoint washer displays F10, use the exact model manual or service documentation.

F11 – Pump Circuit Fault

Hotpoint identifies F11 as a pump circuit fault.

Typical symptom:

Water remains inside the washing machine because it is not being pumped out.

F11 differs conceptually from a simple blockage diagnosis because it specifically points toward the pump circuit.

A technician may investigate:

Drain pump
Pump electrical resistance
Wiring
Connectors
Control-board pump output

Before arranging service, however, checking for obvious drain restrictions is sensible.

F12 – Electronic Control Fault

Hotpoint identifies F12 as an electronic control fault.

The major symptom is that the washing machine does not operate or turn on normally.

Check basic external items first:

Wall socket
Plug
Supply
Fuse where applicable
Power lead

Hotpoint recommends testing whether the socket is live using another appliance when investigating an apparently dead washing machine.

If mains power is available and F12 remains, electronic diagnosis is appropriate.

F13 – Dryer Temperature Sensing Fault

Washer Dryers Only

Hotpoint specifies F13 as a dryer temperature sensing fault for washer dryers.

The typical complaint is:

The washer dryer washes but does not dry the clothes correctly.

Potential diagnostic areas can include the drying temperature sensing circuit and associated wiring/electronics.

If you have a washing-machine-only model, verify the code carefully because F13 is specifically associated with washer-dryer functionality in Hotpoint's current guidance.

F14 – Verify Against Exact Model

F14 is not included in Hotpoint UK's current general washing-machine error-code list.

Therefore:

Do not replace components based only on a generic F14 description found online.

Record the model and serial number and obtain model-specific information.

This is particularly important when troubleshooting older Hotpoint/Indesit-derived platforms and washer-dryer variants.

F15 – Heater Control Fault

Hotpoint defines F15 as a heater control fault affecting washing machines and washer dryers.

Possible symptoms include:

Washing Machine

Water does not heat
Programme pauses during washing

Washer Dryer

Drying does not operate correctly
Programme pauses during drying

These symptoms correspond to Hotpoint's current F15 description.

Because the problem concerns heater control rather than simply proving the heating element itself is defective, proper electrical diagnosis is important.

F16 – Drum Lock Position Sensor Fault

Top-Loading Machines Only

Hotpoint identifies F16 as a drum lock position sensor fault on top-loading machines.

Typical symptoms:

Drum stops in the wrong position
Drum does not lock in the required position

Hotpoint recommends professional service for this condition.

If you have a conventional front-loading machine displaying F16, verify the exact model before assuming this definition applies.

F17 – Verify Against Exact Model

F17 is not included in Hotpoint UK's current standard washing-machine error-code list.

If F17 appears:

Record the exact model
Check the manual
Confirm whether it is a washer or washer dryer
Record accompanying flashing LEDs
Obtain model-specific diagnostic information

Avoid using an unrelated appliance's F17 definition.

F18 – Internal Data Error

Hotpoint identifies F18 as an internal data error.

Symptoms may include:

Display not functioning properly
Controls not responding
Some functions unavailable
Machine behaves unpredictably

Hotpoint recommends a power reset:

Disconnect the appliance from the mains.
Leave it disconnected for at least 2 minutes.
Reconnect it.
Wait approximately 30 seconds.
Attempt to start it again.

If F18 remains, professional repair is recommended.

Hotpoint Washing Machine Flashing Lights

Not every Hotpoint washer displays an F-code directly.

Some machines communicate faults through flashing LED combinations. Hotpoint provides a flashing-light diagnostic interface for applicable machines, and different LED combinations can correspond to codes such as F01, F02, F03, F05, F06, F07, F08, F09, F12, F13, F15, F16 and F18.

Therefore, when reporting a fault, record exactly:

Which LEDs flash
Their positions
Whether they flash simultaneously or sequentially
Whether another LED remains continuously illuminated

A photograph or short video can be useful when arranging service.

Safe Hotpoint Washing Machine Reset Procedure

For faults where a reset is appropriate:

Turn the appliance off.
Disconnect it from the mains.
Wait at least 2 minutes.
Reconnect the appliance.
Wait about 30 seconds.
Start a suitable programme.

Hotpoint specifically recommends this power-reset procedure for F01 and F18.

A reset should not be repeatedly used to conceal a recurring fault.

If the same code keeps returning, investigate the cause.

What to Check Before Calling an Engineer

A few safe checks can eliminate simple external causes.

Power

Verify:

Plug is fully inserted
Socket works
Correct fuse is installed where applicable
Appliance is actually switched on

Door

Verify:

Door closes completely
Clothing is not trapped
Latch area is clean
Door has not dropped out of alignment

Water Supply

Check:

Water supply is turned on
Inlet hose is not kinked
Hose is correctly connected

Hotpoint notes that loss of cold-water supply can cause some machines to stop during the rinse stage.

Drainage

Check:

Drain hose
Pump filter where user-accessible
Under-sink waste connection
Hose installation height

Laundry Load

If the machine refuses to spin, redistribute an unbalanced load. Hotpoint notes that some models indicate an unbalanced load through a final-spin indicator.

Safety Precautions

Always Disconnect Power

Hotpoint advises unplugging the appliance from the mains before carrying out repairs or replacement work.

Do not work internally on a washing machine while it remains connected to mains electricity.

Never Bypass the Door Lock

The door interlock is a safety device.

Do not bridge wires or bypass the lock to force the appliance to operate.

Be Careful When Draining Water

If the machine contains water and you open a filter or emergency drain, water can escape rapidly.

Protect flooring and follow the manufacturer's manual.

Electrical Repairs Require Competence

PCB, motor, heater and mains-voltage testing should be performed only by people with suitable electrical knowledge, equipment and safety procedures.

Why the Model Number Matters

Hotpoint has produced many washing machines and washer dryers over many generations.

The same-looking error code can therefore be interpreted differently depending on:

Model
Production generation
Control-board platform
Appliance type
Market
Front-load/top-load configuration

This is why this guide deliberately marks F04, F10, F14 and F17 as model-specific/unverified rather than assigning potentially incorrect universal meanings.

Hotpoint's current UK washing-machine error page lists 14 standard F-code topics rather than every number from F01 through F18.

When Should You Call a Technician?

Professional diagnosis is advisable when:

Error immediately returns after reset
Circuit breaker repeatedly trips
Burning smell is present
Machine leaks internally
Drum does not rotate despite being mechanically free
Heater circuit fault persists
Pump is electrically dead
Electronic control error remains
Wiring appears burnt
Connectors show heat damage
Door lock cannot operate
Motor circuit error remains
Internal electrical testing is required

Hotpoint provides official washing-machine repair and troubleshooting support in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does F01 mean on a Hotpoint washing machine?

F01 indicates an electronic circuit board fault according to Hotpoint UK. Try the recommended power reset. If the error returns, professional diagnosis is recommended.

2. What does F02 mean?

F02 indicates a motor circuit fault, commonly associated with intermittent or absent drum rotation.

3. What does Hotpoint F03 mean?

F03 is a temperature sensing fault and can result in the appliance failing to heat correctly.

4. What does F05 mean?

F05 indicates a waste-pipe blockage or pump/drain problem. Check the pump filter where applicable, drain hose and under-sink waste connection.

5. Why is my Hotpoint washing machine door locked with F05?

The machine may still contain water. Many washers prevent the door from unlocking when the water has not drained safely.

6. What does F06 mean?

F06 indicates a door lock fault. Check that nothing is obstructing the door-lock mechanism.

7. What is Hotpoint F07?

F07 relates to an electronic circuit board/heating circuit fault on machines covered by Hotpoint's current guidance.

8. What does F08 mean?

F08 is a heater fault and may cause the programme to pause partway through a wash cycle.

9. What does F09 mean?

F09 indicates a software fault. Multiple flashing lights, an unusable display or inability to select programmes can accompany it.

10. What does F11 mean?

F11 indicates a pump circuit fault and may leave water inside the drum.

11. What does F12 mean?

F12 is an electronic control fault and can cause the machine not to turn on or operate.

12. What does F13 mean?

On Hotpoint washer dryers, F13 indicates a dryer temperature sensing fault and can result in clothes not drying.

13. What does F15 mean?

F15 is a heater control fault affecting applicable washing machines and washer dryers.

14. What does F16 mean?

F16 indicates a drum lock position sensor fault on top-loading machines.

15. What does F18 mean?

F18 indicates an internal data error. Hotpoint recommends disconnecting the machine for at least two minutes and then reconnecting it before trying again.

16. How do I reset a Hotpoint washing machine?

For F01 and F18, Hotpoint recommends disconnecting the machine from mains power for at least two minutes, reconnecting it, waiting about 30 seconds and trying again.

17. Can a blocked filter cause a Hotpoint error code?

Yes. A blocked pump filter, where fitted and user-accessible, can contribute to drainage problems associated with F05.

18. Why won't my Hotpoint washing machine spin?

Possible causes include an unbalanced load or a drainage problem. Hotpoint recommends redistributing an unbalanced load and checking drainage when appropriate.

19. Can I repair an F-code myself?

Simple checks such as correcting a kinked hose, clearing an accessible filter or removing an obstruction around the door may be appropriate. Internal electrical repairs involving motors, heaters, wiring and control boards should be left to a suitably competent technician.

20. Are Hotpoint error codes the same on every model?

No. Always verify the code against the exact model and appliance type.

21. Why isn't F04, F10, F14 or F17 given a fixed meaning here?

Because Hotpoint UK's current general washing-machine error-code guide does not list these four codes. Assigning meanings from another appliance, model family or unofficial list could result in incorrect diagnosis.

22. Can flashing lights represent an F-code?

Yes. Applicable Hotpoint washing machines can communicate faults through combinations of flashing indicator LEDs.

23. Why does my Hotpoint washer stop during the rinse cycle?

One possible cause is loss of cold-water supply. Hotpoint recommends checking that the cold-water supply is turned on.

24. Should I replace the PCB whenever an electronic fault appears?

No. A fault code identifies an area requiring diagnosis; it does not prove a particular component has failed. Wiring, connectors, power conditions and related components should be considered before expensive parts are replaced.

25. Where can I obtain official Hotpoint information?

Use the official Hotpoint UK washing-machine error-code guide and the manual for your exact appliance model.

Final Troubleshooting Advice

Hotpoint F-codes are extremely useful diagnostic indicators, but they should be treated as the starting point of diagnosis rather than an automatic instruction to replace a component.

Start with safe external checks such as:

Power → Water Supply → Door → Drainage → Load → Reset → Model-Specific Diagnosis

For F05, investigate drainage first. For F06, inspect the door-lock area. For F01/F18, the manufacturer's power-reset procedure is worth trying. Motor, heater, pump-circuit and electronic-control faults generally require progressively more technical diagnosis.

Most importantly, confirm the complete model number before ordering replacement parts or performing internal repairs.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for general educational and troubleshooting purposes only. Hotpoint error-code meanings, components, wiring and diagnostic procedures can differ by model, production series, country and appliance type.

Always consult the user manual and official service information for the exact appliance before proceeding. Disconnect the washing machine from mains electricity before inspection or maintenance. Electrical, electronic, heater, motor, PCB and internal wiring repairs should be carried out only by a suitably qualified or competent appliance technician.

Neither the author nor the website publishing this information accepts responsibility for injury, appliance damage, property damage, incorrect parts replacement or other loss resulting from the use of this information.