Asko Dishwasher F6 Error: Aquasensor / turbidity fault
Asko dishwasher F6 error is a common issue reported by Asko appliance owners. What Does Error Code F6 Mean on an Asko Dishwasher? Error code F6 appears on Asko dishwashers with an Aquasensor or turbidity sensor — found on D5000, D5100, and selected DBI models. The sensor uses an infrared LED and receiver to measure […]
No
DIY Fixable
From $140
Typical Repair Cost
30-60 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. The machine can often run on manual (non-Auto) program modes while F6 is active, but Auto and sensor-based programs will not function correctly. Address the fault when convenient.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. F6 resets with a power cycle and may not return if the sensor lens was contaminated and has since been cleaned by a descaling cycle. If the sensor is failed, the code will return on the next Auto program run.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: F6 returns on every cycle including manual programs, suggesting a deeper sensor or board fault, The sensor housing is visibly cracked or water has entered the sensor body.
Symptoms You May Notice
Auto or sensor wash programs produce inconsistent results
The dishwasher cuts wash time too short or runs excessively long because the turbidity sensor is giving incorrect water-clarity readings to the controller.
F6 code appears and cycle defaults to a fixed program length
On some Asko firmware versions, F6 causes the machine to fall back to a preset cycle time rather than halting, with the code displayed as a background alert.
Cycle halts partway through and F6 is shown
On stricter control board versions the cycle stops when the sensor signal is detected as invalid, requiring a reset and manual program selection to continue.
Recurring F6 faults in hard-water areas without regular descaling
Homes with very hard water see rapid limescale build-up on the sensor lens, causing F6 to appear every few months if descaling is not carried out regularly.
Possible Causes
Limescale or grease on sensor lens
Mineral deposits or detergent residue have coated the infrared optical sensor, blocking the beam and causing the controller to read the signal as a fault.
DIY PossibleDisconnected or corroded sensor harness
The two- or three-pin connector on the sensor harness has come loose or corroded, causing an open-circuit reading at the control board.
DIY PossibleFailed turbidity sensor
The sensor LED or receiver has failed, or the sensor PCB has been water-damaged, making replacement the only remedy.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Run a descaling cycle
Add a dishwasher descaler (citric acid-based or commercial Asko descaler) to the detergent tray. Run the hottest cycle available with the machine empty. The descaler dissolves the limescale film from the sensor lens as water circulates through the sump.
In very hard water areas (above 300 ppm TDS), descale monthly to prevent F6 recurrence.
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2
Locate and gently clean the sensor
Remove the filter assembly and look into the sump area with a torch. The turbidity sensor is a small black or clear-bodied component with a visible lens window, typically mounted in the side wall of the sump. If reachable, wipe the lens gently with a damp soft cloth. Do not use abrasive materials.
Do not use vinegar directly on the sensor lens as prolonged acid contact can discolour the housing.
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3
Reset and test on a normal cycle
Power the machine off for 30 seconds, then restart. Select the Normal (not Auto) wash program to bypass sensor-dependent cycle adjustment for the test run. Confirm F6 does not return.
If the Normal cycle completes without F6 but Auto still triggers it, the sensor may need replacement even if it appears clean.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Sensor output voltage is outside specification when measured with a multimeter at the harness connector
- The sensor LED is not illuminating when the pump runs (visible under darkened conditions)
- F6 persists after sensor replacement, indicating a control board input circuit fault
Need Professional Help?
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