I have a Fisher & Paykel 5.0 Smart Drive - about 10 years old. Over the weekend it stained some clothes (Ive since found out it is screet, a mix of detergent and softener), and now the machine works up to the rinse stage and then just hums. I have emptied it by hand, and spoken to F&P who suggest it is probably a blocked pump, but will charge me $200 just for a call-out fee! Is anyone able to tell me how to unblock the pump myself please? If possible, step by step instructions as I have never tried anything like this before. Thankyou so much!

Donna, March 2009

First try this. Power off at wall. Empty as much water out of bowl as you can using a small jug. Pull machine forward & tip it back against the wall. Underneath on front right you will see the pump with a small plastic fan on it. Try turning fan back & forward. It will feel tight at first or even catch on something. Keep moving it until it moves freely. Put machine back on it's feet & power on. Advance to final spin & start. Hopefully pump will now run & spit the rubbish out. If it stops and hums, repeat as before. If after 2 - 3 attempts the pump remains stuck then the pump will have to be removed to clear the problem. Post back the result & if needed I will take you through removing the pump.

Lincoln Appliance NZ, March 2009