Hotpoint Washing Machine Error Codes: F06, F18, and More Explained

Hotpoint washing machines display fault codes as a series of flashes on the end-of-cycle LED, or as F-codes on digital displays. Here's what the most common codes mean and how to respond.

Hotpoint F06 Error Code

The F06 error indicates a motor or door lock issue. The machine can't detect the drum spinning or there's a problem with the door interlock assembly.

Common causes:

• Faulty door interlock/lock assembly
• Motor brushes worn down (common on older machines)
• Motor control board failure
• Wiring issue between door lock and control board

What to try: Check that nothing is caught in the door preventing it from locking fully. If the door clicks but the F06 persists, the door interlock needs testing and likely replacement.

Hotpoint F18 Error Code

The F18 code indicates a drain/pump issue. The machine cannot complete drainage within the expected time.

What to try:

1. Check and clean the pump filter (located behind the small access panel at the bottom front)
2. Ensure the drain hose isn't kinked or blocked
3. Check the drain hose height — it should rise to at least 60cm before entering the drain
4. If the filter and hose are clear, the pump motor may need replacement

Hotpoint F09 Error Code

F09 typically indicates an electronic control board fault. Try resetting the machine by turning it off at the wall for 5 minutes. If F09 persists after reset, the control board needs professional diagnosis.

Hotpoint Flashing Lights Error Codes

On older Hotpoint models without a digital display, errors are shown by the end-of-cycle light flashing in a sequence. Count the flashes in each group to identify the code number.

Hotpoint F01 Error Code

The F01 error code on Hotpoint washing machines indicates a main PCB (printed circuit board) fault or a triac failure on the control board. The triac controls the motor — when it fails, the machine displays F01 and refuses to start a cycle.

• Symptoms: Machine won't start, display shows F01, no drum movement.
• Cause: A faulty motor control triac on the main PCB, or in some cases, a short circuit in the motor wiring.
• Fix: The PCB needs to be inspected and repaired or replaced. This is not a DIY repair — it requires a qualified appliance engineer. In some cases, the motor triac can be replaced without swapping the entire board, which is cheaper.

Ariston Washing Machine Fault Codes

Ariston washing machines (made by the same parent company as Hotpoint — Whirlpool/Indesit Group) share a similar fault code system. Common Ariston codes include:

• F01: Main PCB fault (same as Hotpoint F01 — triac or motor control failure).
• F02 / F03: Motor speed sensor fault. The motor is running but the control board can't read the drum speed correctly. Often a faulty tachometer (speed sensor) on the motor.
• F05: Drain fault — water not emptying within the expected time. Check the pump filter and drain hose first.
• F06: Door interlock fault — the machine can't confirm the door is locked. Usually a faulty door lock assembly.
• F07: Heating element fault — water not reaching the set temperature. The heating element or NTC temperature sensor needs testing and replacement.
• F08: Heating relay fault on the PCB — similar to F07 but the fault is in the board's relay rather than the element itself.
• F11: Drain pump fault — the pump is receiving a signal but not performing correctly. Usually a seized or failed pump.

To identify an Ariston fault code on machines without a digital display, count the number of flashes of the wash indicator light before a 5-second pause — that number is the fault code number.

Frequently Asked Questions