Code: F08🧺 Indesit Washer

Indesit Washing Machine F08 Error Code: Heater Fault (Programme Pauses Mid-Wash)

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Based on 2 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Indesit Service UK lists F08 as "Heater fault", with the symptom that the programme pauses part way through a wash cycle, and advises calling 0800 030 8901 to book an engineer. Indesit's WIL10 technical documentation (the French service file for this control platform, which Hotpoint shares) gives the engineer's definition: the wash heater relay is stuck (flagged when the machine is empty), or the pressure switch is stuck on full, so the board sees empty and full signals at the same time. Its checks are the J3 connector contacts on the board; the pressure switch at J3, where pins 2 and 4 should have continuity only when the tub is empty, pins 2 and 3 only with water in the tub, and pins 2 and 1 only when water is above the normal level (more than half way up the door glass); the J3 to pressure switch wiring; and the heater connections at J3 pins 5 and 6. The listed repairs are replacing the pressure switch and then the board. F08 is different from F07, which Indesit lists as a circuit board or heating circuit fault where the machine doesn't heat and the pump runs continuously, and from F03, the temperature sensor fault.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Switch the machine off and unplug it. If water is left in the drum, drain it through the pump filter at the bottom front, with towels and a shallow tray ready.
  2. Try one power reset: leave it unplugged for a couple of minutes, plug back in and run a short wash. If F08 returns, the fault is real.
  3. If you're comfortable working on appliances: with the machine unplugged, remove the top panel and find the pressure switch (a round switch with a thin hose running down to the tub). Check the hose is fitted, not kinked and not blocked, and that the switch connector is pushed fully home.
  4. With a multimeter on continuity, the WIL10 service file says the empty contact (pins 2 and 4 at the J3 connector) should close only with the tub empty. Continuity on the full contact (pins 2 and 3) with an empty tub means the switch is stuck on full and should be replaced.
  5. Check the wiring between the board, the pressure switch and the heater for chafing, burn marks or loose terminals.
  6. If the switch and wiring check out, the heater relay on the board is the likely fault, so book an engineer.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • You'd rather not open the machine: Indesit's own advice for F08 is to book an engineer on 0800 030 8901.
  • The pressure switch and wiring test fine but F08 persists: the next step is the main board, which must match your exact model.
  • There's a burning smell, scorched wiring or a tripped breaker: stop using the machine and have it checked.
  • The machine is under warranty: contact Indesit service rather than opening it up.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Indesit washing machine pressure switch

The most common F08 repair per the WIL10 service file. Match it to the model and serial number on the label inside the door.

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Digital multimeter

To check the pressure switch contacts for continuity with the tub empty and to test the wiring.

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Indesit washing machine main control board

Only if the pressure switch and wiring test fine; boards must match the exact model and may need programming.

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Sources

  1. Indesit Service UK: Washing Machine Error Codes (F08 heater fault; programme pauses part way through a wash cycle; book an engineer on 0800 030 8901; F07 and F03 for contrast)
  2. Indesit WIL10 technical documentation, French, p.14 (F08: wash heater relay stuck when empty, or pressure switch stuck on full; J3 contacts, pressure switch continuity pins 2-4, 2-3 and 2-1, J3 wiring, heater connections pins 5-6; replace pressure switch, then board) (PDF)

Last reviewed 2026-10-26. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.