Problem summary
Error code F5 on KENWOOD KDW6 models indicates a fault with the dishwasher's water supply, pump system, or associated electrical controls. The machine will typically stop mid-cycle or fail to start when this code appears.
Likely causes
Based on 65 similar repairs by SMC Services engineers, the most common causes are:
Hose issue (20% of cases) The inlet or drain hose may be kinked, blocked, or disconnected. Water cannot flow freely to or from the appliance, triggering the F5 error.
Motor fault (15% of cases) The circulation pump or drain pump motor may have failed or developed an electrical fault. This prevents water from circulating or draining properly.
PCB fault (14% of cases) The printed circuit board (main control board) may have a defect that prevents it from sensing water flow or controlling the pump circuit correctly.
Why this needs an engineer
F5 errors involve the water supply circuit, the pump system (which includes a sealed motor), and mains-voltage electrical controls. Diagnosing which component has failed requires specialist test equipment, and repairs often involve:
- Removing or replacing hoses under pressure
- Accessing the pump motor (a sealed, integrated component)
- Testing or replacing the PCB
- Electrical fault-finding on mains circuits
Attempting to disassemble these systems without proper equipment risks water damage, electrical injury, or further damage to the appliance. Even a simple hose replacement on this model should be checked by a qualified engineer to ensure all connections are watertight and safe.
When to call SMC Services
Contact us immediately if your KDW6 is showing F5. The sooner we attend, the less likely water damage will occur inside the cabinet. We'll run a full diagnostic to identify whether the fault is a hose, motor, or control board issue, and advise you on repair costs and timescale.
If you're in Northern Ireland, SMC Services can usually book a repair within 2-3 working days.