What this error means
Heating relay fault — the relay controlling the heating element has failed
The F07 error indicates that the relay on the main control board responsible for switching the heating element on and off has failed. This is a control board fault rather than an element or sensor fault. A relay that has stuck open means the element never receives power despite the sensor and element both being healthy. A relay that has stuck closed means the element runs continuously, creating a serious overheating risk.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Door glass feels cold during a hot programme — relay stuck open, element never powered
- Door glass feels warm or hot during a cold programme or spin phase — relay stuck closed
- F07 displayed during or shortly after the wash heating phase
- Laundry comes out cold despite selecting a high-temperature programme
Diagnostic steps
With the machine unplugged and cooled, plug back in and run a 60-degree programme. After 15 minutes, place your hand on the door glass. If completely cold, the relay is stuck open — the element never receives power. If the glass is hot during a 30-degree programme or during the spin phase when heating should be off, the relay is stuck closed.
With the machine unplugged, remove the rear panel and test the heating element resistance (expected 20 to 50 ohms) and earth continuity (must be OL). Also test the NTC thermistor (expected 10,000 to 50,000 ohms at room temperature).
With the machine completely unplugged, remove the top panel by undoing the two rear screws. The main control board is typically mounted in a plastic housing beneath the top panel. Photograph all wiring connections before touching anything.
The heating relay is a small rectangular black component soldered to the control board surface, typically near the high-current wiring terminals. It may be labelled REL or K with a number. A failed relay sometimes shows a slightly bulged case, a crack at the solder joint, or a burn mark on the board surface immediately around it.
With the rear panel accessible, inspect the high-current wiring from the control board to the heating element. Look for heat damage, melted insulation, or a connector that is not fully engaged. A short circuit in this wiring can cause relay failure.
F07 on Indesit machines almost always requires the main control board to be replaced. Once the replacement board is fitted and the element and sensor have been confirmed healthy, run a full 60-degree test cycle to confirm F07 has cleared.
When to call an engineer
- Heating relay shows visible bulging, cracking at solder joint, or board burn marks around it
- Element confirmed healthy but machine still does not heat — relay stuck open
- Element receives continuous power during cold programmes — relay stuck closed, safety risk
- F07 returns immediately after a full reset — control board must be replaced
Frequently asked questions
What is a heating relay and why does it cause F07?
Is F07 dangerous?
Can F07 be caused by a faulty heating element rather than the relay?
Can I replace just the relay rather than the whole board?
Parts you may need
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Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Element | £15 - £20 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Heating Element | £12 - £25 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.