Fisher & Paykel FabricSmart Front Loader Questions & Answers

It appears that the difference is simply a bit less water used in the cycles. Personally, if I need to be sure of full rinsing, and I've maximised on the quantity of items for the cycle, or it's for items worn next the skin, I do an extra rinse - which can defeat the objective of saving water. Also to be aware of - don't overdo the quantity of detergent; more does not necessarily mean a better wash, and it will always be a problem for rinsing properly. Front loaders need less anyway. The F&P we have is definitely the best machine we've ever had.

Thank you Kate.

Sensor in what way?

I haven’t had any issues with this on this model. I did with my old Bosch front loader and learnt my lesson as it got mouldy as I left the door closed when not in use. That is the key, keep door open to let the machine dry after use. If worried about it just wipe through the seal area to dry off after use

I don't use the tray for liquid. I have some of the liquid ball holders from an Omo bottle and I just put the liquid in that and straight into the wash, I find it cleaner and easier to use.

I use powder and haven't had that issue. I have once seen a little extra water left in the softener tray but never again, I only use vinegar. Best to contact the manufacturer.

The book has details, but one of the reasons i choose this machine was its ability to take bigger load weight in all cycles versus the European models. I always just fill the machine up, but i tend to use cotton cycles for everyday, and the 15 minute cycle to freshen things. No issues yet.

thank you

Thankyou Linda - you just made it easy to choose this over its European rival - yes we were confused about load capacity and cycle types too!

Sorry I don't have an answer but if the appliance is within warranty I would definitely call fisher and paykel and alert them to the issue- the machine might be faulty.

hold the keylock till it goes out/ stops flashing (3 - 6 seconds) - your control panel is locked so children cannot play with it.

What is SE?

I use mostly powder in mine and have never had a problem (there was a choice report a few years ago that said that powder actually gives better results, and it tends to be better value). But you do need to make sure you use special front loader powder - it will say it on the packet, some are for both top and front loaders, as I think top loader powder sometimes suds more which isn’t good for the machine.

I use liquid. This machine has a removable dispenser for liquid which is where you put powder (once the dispenser is removed). Top loading detergent has too many bubbles and will stop your clothes from washing properly.

I’ve had mine for 18 months and haven’t ever had an issue with clothes not seeming clean. You have a good selection of cycles to pick from

So which machine did you finally decide on

i have the same inquiry too! Could anyone tell me which one should choose between FabricSmart and WashSmart 8.5kg (WH8560F1 and WH8560P2)? Many thanks!

Hi Barbara you would need to get a very strong stand as these machines are very heavy. I dont think you can find a table strong enough. Best to try sell this one and get a top loader. Maybe have a chat with Fisher Paykel they might be considerate.

My mum had a little platform built which raises it up. Whatever you use will have to be very sturdy as they are heavy and vibrate a lot when spinning.

Leave the door open so mould does not build up on the rubber seal.

Everyday wash takes 59 minutes on most temps (a little higher for the hottest) and reduces down to 45 minutes with timesaver on.

There is a 30 minute wash cycle and I always use that

Thanks both! On the fabricsmart model there is no 30 minute wash. The timesaver does look like it will materially reduce wash times. Thanks again

You probably just need to shop around. I just googled it and the 8.5kg is $875 and 8kg $799 at Harvey Norman

Thank you. I googled quite a few and didn’t get that price.