Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher E20 / A20 Error Code: Drain Fault, Water Not Draining (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)
What the code means
Fisher & Paykel's dishwasher fault code table lists A20 and E20 together as a "Draining issue." The service manual for the DW60FC full-size dishwasher calls A20 a water level alert and gives the cause as "The dishwasher did not drain sufficiently," and the DW60U user guide lists A20 as a drain fault. A is Fisher & Paykel's prefix for user alerts, which are problems you can often fix yourself, unlike F faults that usually need a technician. Fisher & Paykel also lists the turbidity sensor in the sump under this code, because a dirty sensor can upset the drain check. This page covers full-size dishwashers; DishDrawer models use their own drain fault codes.
Likely causes
- A drain hose that is kinked, crimped or bent behind or under the dishwasher, often after the machine was pushed back into the cabinet.
- A blocked drain connection at the sink waste pipe or garbage disposal.
- A new install where the drain spigot on the waste pipe or disposal was never drilled or knocked out, which Fisher & Paykel names specifically.
- A clogged drain filter or food and glass fragments blocking the drain pump.
- A dirty turbidity sensor in the sump, which Fisher & Paykel says may need cleaning.
- A drain pump that isn't running, or in rare cases a faulty controller, which the service manual lists as the last things to check.
Safe DIY checks
Switch the dishwasher off at the wall before removing the filter, sump insert or pump cover, and let it cool if it was just running, since the filter area can be hot. Watch for broken glass or sharp objects in the pump. Leave removing panels and replacing the pump or controller to a qualified technician.
- Turn the dishwasher off at the wall before reaching into the base or the sump.
- Check the drain hose behind the dishwasher and under the sink and straighten any kinks or bends. Make sure it is connected the way the installation instructions show.
- Check the drain connection is clear. If the dishwasher or a garbage disposal was just installed, make sure the drain spigot on the disposal or waste pipe was drilled out.
- Twist out the drain filter, clean it under hot water, and sponge out any water left in the base, as the user guide's maintenance section describes.
- With the filter out, remove the sump insert and pump cover and clear any food or blockage from the pump. Take care, because broken glass or sharp objects may be what's jamming it.
- Gently clean the turbidity sensor in the sump with a soft brush such as a toothbrush to remove any buildup.
- Put everything back, press and hold CANCEL to stop the beeping and clear the code, then run a short cycle. If E20 or A20 returns, note the code and book a Fisher & Paykel service technician.
🛠 When to call a pro
- Checking the drain pump actually runs in diagnostic test mode, and replacing it if it doesn't, which is a step in Fisher & Paykel's service table for A20.
- Checking for blockages in the drain path that can't be reached from inside the tub.
- Checking the turbidity sensor and its wiring if the sensor reading is suspect.
- Replacing the controller, which the service manual lists only after the drain connection, hose and pump have been ruled out.
Parts that commonly fix it
Always match the part number to your exact model.
Dishwasher cleaner
Helps clear grease and buildup in the filter and sump area that can slow draining.
Search eBay →Dishwasher drain pump
Only if a technician confirms the pump isn't running. Match the part to your model number.
Search eBay →Sources
Last reviewed 2026-10-24. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.