Hotpoint Washing Machine Error Codes: The Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Help & Advice > Hotpoint Washing Machine Error Codes: The Complete Troubleshooting Guide

At Domex, we repair thousands of Hotpoint appliances every year. That means our experienced engineers know exactly how to identify and read Hotpoint washing machine error codes as well as how to fix them.

In some cases, fixes are simple and you can try a few simple steps to resolve the issue yourself. However, other cases require professional assistance, which is where we come in.

If you’re unsure of what to do, keep reading below to learn what your Hotpoint washer’s error code is, what you can do about it and when it’s time to get expert help. Let’s start.

Full List of Official Hotpoint Washing Machine Error Codes

Before we get started, it’s important to distinguish between old vs new Hotpoint error codes. Flashing light codes appear on older models without a digital display. Meanwhile, more modern models with a digital display will sometimes show an error code that consists of a letter (F) and a number. In the section below, we start with the newer models with a complete Hotpoint fault codes list.

Official Hotpoint digital-display error codes

Flashing LED Error Codes (For Older Hotpoint Models Without a Digital Display)

As mentioned above, some older Hotpoint and Indesit washer models don’t show F-codes. Instead, they show specific flashing patterns. Here’s a list of these so that you can make the right decision about whether a DIY fix is feasible or whether you need to call an engineer.

Hotpoint LED error pattern table explained

A Detailed Explanation of the Top 10 Hotpoint Error Codes

F01: PCB/Power issue

What it means

The Hotpoint washing machine F01 error code often means a printed circuit board (PCB) fault or a general power supply issue. This can stop the machine from responding or completing a wash cycle.

Common causes

• Loose or damaged wiring to the PCB
• Short-circuited components
• Power surge or electrical overload
• Moisture reaching the control board

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Turn off and unplug the machine for at least 10 minutes.
2. Check the power socket by plugging in another appliance.
3. Inspect the plug and power cable for signs of damage.
4. If comfortable, remove the top panel and check for loose connectors to the PCB (do not touch components).
5. Plug back in and try a cycle.

When to call a professional

• The machine trips the electrics.
• You smell burning or see scorch marks.
• The error comes back immediately.
• PCB components are visibly damaged (a board replacement is usually required).

F02: Motor/brushes

What it means

 The F02 error points to a problem with the washing machine motor or carbon brushes.

Common causes

• Worn-out motor brushes
• Faulty tachometer
• Overloaded drum putting strain on the motor
• Loose wiring to the motor

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Turn off and unplug the machine.
2. Remove the back panel to access the motor (if comfortable).
3. Check for obvious loose connections.
4. Inspect the motor brushes. If they are shorter than 1cm, they need replacing.
5. Reassemble and run a test cycle.

When to call a professional

• You’re not comfortable removing panels.
• Motor brushes need replacing.
• The drum spins erratically or not at all.
• You suspect a faulty motor or tachometer.

F03: Temperature sensor

What it means

The F03 error indicates a problem with the NTC temperature sensor, which monitors water temperature.

Common causes

• Faulty or wet temperature sensor
• Limescale buildup on the heating element
• Damaged sensor wiring
• Faulty heater causing incorrect readings

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Unplug the appliance.
2. Remove the back panel.
3. Locate the NTC sensor on the heater housing.
4. Check wiring for looseness or damage.
5. Clean away visible limescale.
6. Reassemble and test.

When to call a professional

• The heater is not working at all.
• The sensor needs replacing.
• The machine overheats or fails to heat.

F05: Drainage/pump blockage

What it means

The Hotpoint F05 error means the washing machine cannot drain water properly. This is usually due to a blocked pump, blocked filter or faulty drain pump.

Common causes

• Blocked pump filter
• Clogged drain hose
• Foreign object in the sump hose
• Faulty pump motor

Step-by-step DIY fix

To carry out a DIY Hotpoint error code F05 fix, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the machine: Always disconnect power before opening filters or panels.
2. Open the filter flap: Usually located at the bottom front of the washer.
3. Prepare towels/bowl: Residual water will pour out.
4. Remove debris: Clear coins, hairpins, fluff, buttons or lint.
5. Check drain hose: Ensure it’s not kinked or blocked. Remove it and run water through if necessary.
6. Run a test cycle: Choose a short rinse-and-spin to confirm drainage.

When to call a professional

• Error returns immediately after cleaning
• Machine floods or leaks water during draining
• Burning smell from the pump area
• Pump not turning despite cleaning the filter

Many people ask: is a Hotpoint F05 error dangerous? The answer is not usually, but if you notice smoke, leaks or electrical smells, you should unplug your washer immediately and seek professional help.

F06: Door lock fault

What it means

The Hotpoint washing machine F06 door lock error is linked to the door lock mechanism. The machine won’t start if it cannot confirm the door is securely locked.

Common causes

• Faulty door lock assembly
• Broken or bent door latch
• Loose wiring on the lock
• Damaged PCB communication to the lock

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Ensure the door is firmly closed.
2. Clean around the latch to remove debris.
3. Unplug the machine and inspect the door seal for obstructions.
4. Press firmly on the door and try restarting the cycle.

When to call a professional

• Door lock needs replacing
• Machine won’t unlock
• The error persists every cycle

F07: Triac/heater circuit fault (board issue)

What it means

Error F07 usually means a triac fault on the main control board, affecting the heater circuit.

Common causes

• Damaged triac on the PCB
• Heater wiring fault
• Short circuit from moisture
• Faulty heater relay

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Unplug the machine.
2. Check heater wiring for burning or looseness.
3. Ensure no water has leaked onto internal components.
4. Restart the machine.

When to call a professional

• PCB needs repairing or replacing
• Heater relay is damaged
• The machine stops mid-cycle repeatedly

F08: Heater element or relay fault (element issue)

What it means

The Hotpoint error F08 indicates the heater element or heater relay is faulty.

Common causes

• Burned-out heating element
• Faulty relay on the PCB
• Wiring damage
• Limescale on the element

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Switch off and unplug the machine.
2. Inspect heater connections at the back.
3. Check for visible limescale.
4. Reset the machine and test.

When to call a professional

• Heating element replacement needed
• PCB relay fault
• Clothes are always cold after a cycle

F09: Software/configuration error

What it means

The F09 error refers to a software glitch or a configuration memory error.

Common causes

• Corrupted EEPROM
• Power surge
• Faulty PCB
• Failed firmware configuration

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Unplug for 15–30 minutes.
2. Plug back in and press Start/Pause + On/Off together to reset (on some models).
3. Ensure stable power supply.

When to call a professional

• Software reprogramming is needed
• PCB must be replaced
• Error appears randomly during cycles

F11: Pump error

What it means

Error F11 shows a drain pump failure. It is similar to F05 but is related directly to the pump operation rather than to blockages.

Common causes

• Failed pump motor
• Loose pump wiring
• Damaged impeller
• Blockage stopping pump rotation

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Clean the pump filter.
2. Check wiring connections at the pump.
3. Spin the pump impeller manually to feel for resistance.
4. Test a short cycle.

When to call a professional

• Pump motor replacement is needed
• Burning smell from the pump
• Impeller won’t spin even when cleared

F12: Communication error

What it means

The F12 error indicates a communication fault between the machine’s main PCB and the display module.

Common causes

• Loose data cable
• Faulty PCB
• Moisture in the control panel
• Failed display board

Step-by-step DIY fix

1. Unplug for 10 minutes.
2. Check the display for moisture or condensation.
3. Ensure stable power.
4. Restart the machine.

When to call a professional

• Display panel replacement
• Full PCB diagnostics required
• Machine becomes unresponsive

Recall Warning: Certain Hotpoint/Indesit models were recalled due to a fire risk caused by defective door lock systems. Check Hotpoint’s official recall page to see if your model was affected.

Universal Troubleshooting Steps Before You Start

Whichever Hotpoint washer error you’re faced with, there are a few universal troubleshooting steps you can take before you start. Here’s what you need to do:

• Perform a master reset: To perform a hotpoint washer error reset, unplug the washing machine for 10–15 minutes to allow all internal components to fully discharge. Reconnect the power and restart the machine. This often clears minor electronic glitches.
• Safely power cycle the machine: Turn the machine off using the control panel, then switch it off at the wall and unplug it. Wait at least 60 seconds before plugging it back in to ensure a clean restart.
• Drain manually: If your Hotpoint washing machine won’t drain, you need to attempt a manual drain. Place a shallow tray and towels under the filter flap, then slowly open the drain cap to let the water out in a controlled way. Continue draining until water stops flowing, then close the cap securely
• Check the filter safely: With the machine unplugged, open the filter access door and unscrew the filter slowly to release trapped water. Remove any debris, rinse the filter and screw it back in tightly before closing the flap to effectively unblock the Hotpoint filter.
• Check the door lock: Is your Hotpoint door lock faulty? Ensure the door closes firmly with a clear “click” and inspect the latch for visible damage or obstructions. If the door doesn’t sit flush or feels loose, it may indicate a worn or faulty lock mechanism.
• Run an empty test cycle: After troubleshooting, select a short rinse or spin cycle and run the machine with no laundry inside. This helps confirm whether the error has cleared and whether the machine can operate normally.

When You Should NOT Attempt a Repair

While the universal troubleshooting steps may help in some cases, there are certain situations when you should never attempt to undertake a repair yourself and rather call in an engineer. These cases include when the machine exhibits:

• A burning smell
• Water is leaking onto the electrics
• The washer is making loud grinding noises
• There is exposed wiring
• You experience repeated tripping of electrics

If any of these symptoms occur, book a Domex Hotpoint washing machine engineer immediately.

Real-Life Examples From Our Engineers

Our engineers have fixed thousands of Hotpoint washers over the years and they have some interesting stories to share about their experience. Read below to learn more about how they approached certain problems and how they led to a successful fix every time

The Weary Motor Brushes of Croydon

We had a call from a flat in Croydon where the customer was worried because their Hotpoint drum simply wasn’t turning, occasionally flashing up an F02 mid-cycle. They could hear the motor giving a little hum, but the drum was barely budging.

Our engineer quickly tested the motor circuit and discovered that the carbon brushes were seriously worn down. Essentially, they weren’t making enough contact to drive the motor properly, which the control board registered as a motor circuit fault (F02).

After fitting new, genuine Hotpoint brushes and double-checking the wiring, the drum sprung back to life, turning smoothly. We ran a full wash to make sure everything was working optimally and just let the customer know that heavy, frequent washes over a long period can speed up that brush wear.

The Door Lock and the Dreaded Recall

A family in Romford contacted us because their Hotpoint washer just flat-out refused to start, displaying the F06 door lock error every time they tried. They also mentioned a faint, worrying burning smell coming from the door area.

Before even laying a finger on the machine, our eagle-eyed engineer checked the Hotpoint recall list and confirmed that this exact model had been flagged in a previous safety campaign concerning faulty door locks. He immediately isolated the appliance from the mains and firmly advised the customer not to use it under any circumstances.

We helped them get straight in touch with Hotpoint to confirm the recall status and arrange the proper support from the manufacturer. This really highlights why an F06 fault is not to be sniffed at, particularly if you smell burning or feel heat around the door.

Not in Croydon or Romford? We cover a much wider area – check our service coverage page to see if we visit your postcode.

FAQs

• How do I reset a Hotpoint washing machine?

To reset most models, turn the appliance off, unplug it for 10–15 minutes, then power it back on. This acts as a master reset Hotpoint washing machine method. Some models also support a button-press reset. If the error persists after trying how to reset Hotpoint washing machine steps, there may be a deeper control board or wiring issue.

• Why does my Hotpoint washer have all lights flashing?

Flashing lights often mean a general electronic fault, wiring issue or software error affecting the machine. It may also occur during an electrical fault Hotpoint washing machine event such as a power surge. Try a reboot or reset. If lights continue flashing, the model may be one of the Hotpoint washing machine models affected by errors and that’s when you should have an engineer inspect it.

• Can I fix an F02 error myself?

The F02 error relates to worn motor brushes or tachometer issues. You can inspect the motor connections and, if confident, replace carbon brushes on Hotpoint motors. However, if the Hotpoint drum not turning issue continues or you’re unsure about removing panels, this is a good time to consider when to call an engineer for safe diagnosis.

• What causes the F08 error?

Error F08 usually means the heater element or relay has failed. Limescale, wiring faults and burned components are common causes. If your Hotpoint washing machine is not heating, the element may be worn and you might need to replace Hotpoint heater element parts. This fault often requires a technician because it can be linked to PCB relay failure.

• What is the difference between F07 and F08?

F07 points to a heater circuit or triac issue on the control board, while hotpoint error F08 refers to a faulty heater element or relay. In simple terms, F07 is usually a control board problem, while F08 is caused by the element itself. Both may lead to a Hotpoint washing machine not heating, but the repair steps differ.

• Why is my Hotpoint washer not spinning?

A Hotpoint washing machine not spinning can be caused by blocked filters, drainage problems, worn brushes or imbalance in the drum. Clearing the filter may help. Many users start by trying to clear Hotpoint pump blockage issues. If the drum struggles or stops mid-cycle, it may indicate motor wear or an F02-related problem.

• What should I do if my machine beeps but won’t start?

A beeping Hotpoint washer often means the door isn’t locking, a start sequence hasn’t been confirmed, or there’s a deeper fault. Some models are part of the Hotpoint recall door lock issue, which can trigger failure to start. Check the latch, control panel and run a reset. If you smell anything unusual, like a Hotpoint washing machine burning smell, unplug immediately and get professional help.

Final Tips and How to Avoid Future Errors

As we wrap up, there are a few tips we’d like to share with you to keep your Hotpoint washer in top shape while aiming to reduce the appearance of error codes.

• Perform regular cleaning on an empty cycle.
• Clean the filters regularly.
• Check the pockets of your clothes for small items before washing to prevent any blockages.
• Keep a load balance.
• Perform a maintenance wash once a month

Still seeing an error code? Domex engineers are fully trained in Hotpoint appliances and carry genuine parts.

Book a repair today and get a fast, reliable fix.