Fisher & Paykel Cooktops F5 Error: Flame failure fault
Fisher & Paykel cooktop error code F5 is a mid-severity fault meaning Flame failure detection (FFD) fault — gas valve closes after ignition. A flame failure detection fault means the gas safety system is not working correctly. FFD faults do not have a software reset.
~50%
DIY Fixable
From $110
Typical Repair Cost
30 min–2 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A flame failure detection fault means the gas safety system is not working correctly. If the FFD circuit cannot confirm a stable flame, continued operation risks unburned gas entering the kitchen. Do not use the affected burner until the fault is resolved.
Can I reset the code?
No. FFD faults do not have a software reset. Cleaning the thermocouple and reseating the burner cap resolves many cases. A degraded thermocouple requires physical replacement by a gas appliance technician.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Any smell of gas when the burner is not intentionally lit, Burner self-extinguishes even when holding the knob for 10 seconds.
Symptoms You May Notice
Burner lights then extinguishes after 1–3 seconds
The burner ignites normally but the gas valve closes and the flame dies as soon as the knob is released to the run position.
Must hold knob in for an extended time
Holding the ignition knob depressed for longer than usual allows the burner to stay lit, but releasing the knob extinguishes the flame.
Clicking resumes after flame extinguishes
The ignition system re-activates after the burner self-extinguishes, as if detecting an unlit state.
Possible Causes
Contaminated FFD thermocouple
Grease or food residue on the thermocouple probe prevents adequate heat transfer, delaying the thermoelectric signal that keeps the gas valve open.
DIY PossibleFaulty thermocouple
The thermocouple has degraded and can no longer generate sufficient voltage to hold the gas safety valve open even when the flame is present.
Requires ProfessionalMisaligned burner cap affecting flame impingement
The burner cap is not seated correctly, directing the flame away from the thermocouple tip and preventing it from reaching operating temperature.
DIY PossibleFFD safety valve seat contamination
Debris has partially blocked the gas valve seat, causing erratic gas flow that destabilises the flame and triggers the FFD circuit.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
-
1
Clean the thermocouple probe
Ensure the cooktop is off and cool. Locate the thermocouple — a small metallic probe standing beside the burner. Clean it gently with a dry cloth or soft toothbrush to remove all grease and carbon deposits.
Do not use abrasive materials or bend the thermocouple probe — it is a precision sensor that is easily damaged.
-
2
Reseat the burner cap
Remove and firmly reseat the burner cap, ensuring it sits level and that the alignment tab or notch is correctly engaged. The flame must impinge directly on the thermocouple tip to heat it adequately.
Even a 2–3 mm misalignment of the burner cap can redirect the inner flame cone away from the thermocouple, causing an apparent FFD fault.
-
3
Test hold time
Relight the burner and hold the knob depressed for a full 10 seconds before releasing. If the burner stays alight, the thermocouple needed longer to reach temperature — this can indicate a partially contaminated or weakening thermocouple.
Increasing hold time from the usual 3–5 seconds to 8–10 seconds is a reliable sign the thermocouple is degrading and should be replaced proactively.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermocouple replacement requires gas-line awareness and access beneath the cooktop
- Gas valve seat cleaning or replacement must be performed by a licensed gas fitter
- Any suspected gas leak requires gas company attendance, not DIY repair
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Cooktops Repair Service Schedule Appointment