When a Jenn-Air dishwasher throws Error Code FA, it’s flagging a venting problem—steam isn’t evacuating the tub the way it should. That trapped moisture lingers after the final rinse, leaving dishes wet, glasses hazy, and the interior humid long after the cycle ends. The good news: many FA issues are simple to spot and fix with basic checks.
What FA Really Means (in plain English)
Your dishwasher needs to vent hot, moist air near the end of the cycle so dishes can dry. FA means the system that opens the vent or moves air across it isn’t doing its job. Depending on model, drying is handled by a motorized vent door, a wax motor, or a small fan. If that path sticks shut—or the fan doesn’t run—humidity gets trapped and the control raises FA.
You may notice a warm, steamy whoosh when you crack the door after cycles, water droplets clinging to the tub walls, or persistent “wet plastics” even with heated dry selected.
Symptoms you might see
- Dishes and plastics come out wet or clammy, even on heated dry
- Fogged glasses or a new haze on clear items
- A musty smell after a day with the door closed
- FA code returns at the end of most cycles
Why FA Happens (common, real-world causes)
Most FA faults trace back to a stuck vent door, a weak or failed vent motor/fan, or blocked airflow caused by loading, debris, or a mis-seated filter assembly. Less often, wiring to the vent module or a control output issue is to blame. High humidity kitchens and heavy rinse-aid dosing can also exaggerate post-cycle moisture if the vent isn’t opening fully.
Quick Safety Note
Always disconnect power at the breaker before removing toe-kicks or panels. Sharp sheet metal and live circuits live behind those covers—take it slow.
DIY Steps to Clear FA (keep it simple first)
Power reset
Turn the breaker off for 5 minutes, then back on. FA caused by a one-off glitch will clear and stay gone on the next full cycle.
Loading and airflow sanity check
Make sure tall items (cutting boards, sheet pans) aren’t parked in front of the vent area on the inner door or top left/right (location varies by model). Avoid overpacking plastics against the door.
Filter & sump clean
Pull the filter assembly, rinse under warm water, and clear any lint or food fibers. Reinstall firmly—an air gap around a loose filter basket can disturb airflow patterns and compromise drying.
Inspect the vent door
Open the door and look for the vent grille. If accessible, gently press—does the flap feel stuck or gummy? Wipe away detergent residue and mineral film. Do not pry hard; you’re looking for obvious stickiness, not forcing it.
Run a quick test
Choose a shorter cycle with heated dry. Listen near the end: you should hear a soft fan or a click of the vent door. If you hear nothing and FA returns, the vent motor/fan may have failed or the door is binding internally.
If FA reappears after these checks—or you find a cracked vent housing, broken louvers, or moisture inside the control console—stop and arrange service. Running for weeks with a failed vent can leave persistent odors and may stress the control board.
What a Technician Will Do (so you know what to expect)
A pro will meter the vent motor or wax actuator, confirm the fan runs under load, and check wiring continuity from the control to the vent module. They’ll inspect the vent channel for warping and replace the vent assembly if the motor is weak, the flap is distorted, or the fan bearings are noisy. If the vent hardware checks out, they’ll verify the control’s output and update parts accordingly.
Practical Fixes You Can Do (no overkill)
- Clean away hardened detergent around the vent grille and door gasket
- Reseat the filter assembly so it locks flat and airtight
- Run a hot wash with dishwasher cleaner to dissolve residue that can gum the vent area
- Use rinse-aid correctly (too little hurts sheeting; too much can leave tacky film)
Prevent FA from Coming Back
- Mind vent clearance: Don’t block the vent with tall items or utensil caddies
- Use the right cycle: Select heated dry (and “ProDry/Extra Dry” if your model has it) for mixed loads
- Monthly maintenance: Clean filters and run a tub cleaner to prevent film buildup on the vent door
- Load smarter: Angle plastics so water sheds; avoid nesting bowls that trap droplets
- Room conditions: If your kitchen is very humid, crack the door a few minutes after cycle end to help moisture escape
When to Call a Pro
- FA returns on multiple cycles after a reset and cleaning
- You can’t hear the vent click or fan at the end of a cycle
- Visible warping or cracks at the vent, or moisture in the control fascia
- Burning or electrical smells during dry
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