What 246 Means
Fault 246 is the bleach valve problem. The AquaSmart dispensing system uses separately identified valves, and F&P identifies this one by its red clip. The controller has read the valve diagnostic circuit and concluded that this valve is failing, most likely because its harness is not connected correctly or the coil is open circuit.
Common Causes of 246
- The bleach valve harness not connected correctly
- An open circuit bleach valve coil
- Bent pins in the valve connector
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Unplug the machine and look at the valve block behind the dispenser. The valves are color-clipped, so confirming the red-clipped one still has its connector fully seated is a check you can actually make.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- Turn off both taps and unplug the machine before the valve block is touched, because these are mains solenoids on a pressurised connection.
- Bleach residue corrodes terminals faster than plain water, so a connector here may look sound and still be failing.
- The valves sit close together on one block, and a careless pull on one harness disturbs its neighbors.
- Replacing a valve block for a coil the harness had simply come off is a common and entirely avoidable expense.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.