Fisher & Paykel Dryers HC2 Error: Water tank full
Fisher & Paykel dryer error code HC2 is a low-severity fault meaning Water collection tank full (heat-pump models). HC2 is a routine maintenance notification on heat-pump dryers, not a safety fault. HC2 clears immediately when the tank is emptied and correctly reseated.
~95%
DIY Fixable
From $0
Typical Repair Cost
5 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Yes. HC2 is a routine maintenance notification on heat-pump dryers, not a safety fault. Empty the tank, reseat it firmly, and resume the cycle. The dryer is fully safe to use once the tank is cleared.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. HC2 clears immediately when the tank is emptied and correctly reseated. If HC2 appears again with a confirmed-empty tank, the level sensor requires inspection.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: HC2 returns immediately after emptying a confirmed-empty tank (sensor fault), Condensate has leaked from around the tank housing onto the floor.
Symptoms You May Notice
HC2 displayed — cycle paused
The dryer pauses mid-cycle and displays HC2. On most DH models the cycle can be resumed immediately after the tank is emptied.
No water tank alert light (older models)
Older DH models without a dedicated tank-full indicator use HC2 on the main display as the only notification.
Damp clothes at end of otherwise normal cycle
If HC2 was triggered late in the cycle and the dryer stopped early, the last portion of drying was not completed.
Possible Causes
Water tank at capacity
The condensate collection tank is full and must be emptied. This is normal operation rather than a fault — a typical load produces 0.5–1.5 litres of condensate.
DIY PossibleWater tank not seated correctly
The tank was not pushed all the way in after the last emptying, and the tank-full sensor is detecting an incorrect position.
DIY PossibleFaulty tank level sensor
The float sensor or optical sensor that monitors the tank level has failed, triggering HC2 even when the tank is empty.
DIY PossibleBlocked condensate drain (auto-drain models)
On DH models with a direct-drain option, a blocked drain hose prevents condensate from leaving the machine, filling the internal reservoir.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Remove and empty the water tank
Locate the condensate collection tank (typically a pull-out drawer at the top or side of the DH dryer cabinet). Remove it, empty it in a sink, rinse it out, and slide it firmly back into its housing until it clicks.
After emptying, push the tank all the way in until you feel or hear it seat. A partially inserted tank leaves the tank sensor in an ambiguous state.
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2
Power-cycle and resume the cycle
After reinserting the tank, power-cycle the dryer and restart the cycle. HC2 should clear immediately. If the same load needs to finish drying, select a short timed-dry cycle to complete it.
Consider setting a reminder to check and empty the tank every 2–3 loads rather than waiting for HC2. A full load can fill the tank in a single cycle on a large DH model.
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3
Check for a blocked auto-drain hose
On DH models plumbed with the optional direct-drain hose: disconnect the drain hose and confirm it is not kinked, blocked with lint, or elevated above the drain pump outlet height. Clear any blockages.
The drain hose must not rise above the pump outlet — gravity assists drainage and any uphill section reduces flow to a trickle.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Tank level sensor has failed and requires replacement
- Internal condensate drain pump has failed (no water collects in tank despite running cycles)
Need Professional Help?
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