Fisher & Paykel Washer 38 Code: Pressure Sensor Fault

Since agitating needs water, the tub was not empty at the start. 38 is stored when the reading later drops to empty mid-agitate, and the manual files it under Pressure Sensor Fault, Phases 1 to 6.

The entry in detail

• What was logged: an empty water level while agitating.
• Likeliest cause: the sensor hose got cut or slipped off mid-agitate.
• Alternative: the sensor itself is defective.
• Mechanical check: make sure the tube is whole and has not been cut.
• After that: if the tube looks fine, change the controller module (the Display Module in Phase 1).

The pressure tube

Through this tube the machine senses how high the water stands. Its two ends are named in the manual, one at the tub and one at the controller module, and the advice repeats across several codes: attached, uncut and clear.

Owner or technician

Because the tube is inside, anyone examining it must open the washer. Owners get neither a check nor a reset for 38 from the manual. Report the code and the moment it appeared, as the entry hinges on the reading taken in agitate.

Other tube and sensor codes

• Code 39 is the tube blocked, kinked or dropped off.
• Code 11 is a negative pressure measured while the level is read.
• Code 2 is a fault when the sensor’s reading is taken.

Check before replacing

The booklet begins with two reminders. First, the code on screen is the final fault logged and needs confirming. Second, each code’s list of sources usually ranks them from likeliest to least, although servicing convenience sometimes changes the order. This entry goes tube, then controller.

Smartdrive washer repair in Los Angeles

Call (310) 872-1939 with the model and the code to arrange service in Los Angeles. Read the washer repair page as well.

Source: Fisher & Paykel Smartdrive washer service manual 517766 (March 2003), section 19, Detailed Fault Codes