Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Check food temperatures immediately — if items are warming, move to alternative cooling.
- If visible frost is on the freezer back wall, a manual defrost may provide temporary relief: unplug for 24–48 hours with doors open and towels on the floor.
- Contact Fisher & Paykel service — defrost heater and thermostat replacement requires evaporator access.
If the code comes back
- Fault 2 appears — always. This confirms the defrost system has already failed across multiple cycles.
What This Error Means
The Fault 2 fault code on your Fisher & Paykel Refrigerator means: The automatic defrost system has failed — previous defrost cycles were aborted after 40 minutes without completing. Frost has likely accumulated on the evaporator, and the refrigerator's cooling performance will decline as the frost thickens.
Most common cause: defrost heater failure.
Contact Fisher & Paykel service for Fault 2. This is not a user-fixable fault — the defrost heater and/or thermostat must be replaced.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Fisher & Paykel refrigerator may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Defrost heater failure
Check first: SAFETY: Check food temperatures immediately — if items are warming, move to alternative cooling.
Common Causes
- Defrost heater failure
- Defrost thermostat failure preventing the heater from activating
- Timer or control board not initiating defrost cycles
What Not to Do
- Do not use a hair dryer to defrost the evaporator — this can damage plastic components and refrigerant lines
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Fisher & Paykel refrigerator display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
Fisher & Paykel service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Fisher & Paykel refrigerator parts.
Common parts
- Defrost heater (~$30–$80) (varies) - consult technician
- Defrost thermostat (~$10–$25) (varies) - consult technician
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
Fault 2 appears — always. This confirms the defrost system has already failed across multiple cycles.
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Keep the freezer door gasket in good condition — a leaking seal allows warm humid air in, which dramatically increases frost buildup
Related Error Codes
Extra notes
- This page is based on Fisher & Paykel support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-10
Based on: Based on Fisher & Paykel support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Fisher & Paykel North America Support
Model coverage note: Fisher & Paykel refrigerator code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.