F08

Heating Element Relay Error

Home Appliance Error Codes Indesit Washing machines

Can you still use it? No, unplug it

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 45 minutes – 2.5 hours

Typical cost SAR 200 to 1,500

What it means

This code appears on electronic Indesit washing machines when the main board detects a fault in the heater relay, such as a stuck relay or current leaking from the heating element. The machine stops and should be unplugged because the fault is electrical, and the same number can mean something else on other brands. Codes differ between some Indesit series, so check your manual to confirm.

Models covered: Indesit washing machines on the electronic EVO platform; the code shows on the display or as blinking lights. Older mechanical models do not show codes.

Symptoms4

The code shows right after start-up or when heating begins.
The home earth-leakage switch may trip.
Water stays cold and the cycle stops.
Water may overheat if the relay is stuck on.

Possible causes5

Current leaking from the heating element to the frame due to corrosion or scale.
Stuck or failed heater relay on the main board.
Moisture or water on the heater connector.
Damaged heater wiring.
Faulty temperature sensor giving a misleading reading.

How to diagnose5

Unplug the machine at once and do not restart it more than once as a test.
Note whether the earth-leakage switch trips at start-up; this is useful for the technician.
The technician unplugs the machine before opening it, then measures the heater and its insulation to the frame against the manufacturer specification.
The technician checks the heater connector and wiring for moisture or burning.
If the heater is sound, the heater relay on the board is checked.

How to fix5

Dry the heater connector and fix whatever let water reach it.
Repair the heater wiring.
Replace the heater if it leaks current.
Replace the temperature sensor if it reads wrongly.
Repair or replace the main board, then run a hot program and watch the temperature.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The heater alone is a mid-priced part; the cost reaches the top of the range if the main board must be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Why does the earth-leakage switch trip with this code?

A corroded heater can leak current to the frame, and the switch trips to protect you; never bypass it, call a technician.

Does scale affect the heater?

Yes. Hard water leaves a layer on the heater that makes it run hotter and fail sooner; regular descaling reduces this.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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