Hi Neil,
I have the exact same problem with a machine that is about 2 years old, I have rung Hotmpoint and they said they will send an engineer if I want for £89.98 and he will fix it, as it is still within the 5 years free parts warranty - I only have to pay the fixed callout and labour charge of £89.98!
BUT.....I have been searching around the internet and although I haven't had time to take the machine apart yet, think that it is the condenser unit that is blocked?? Apparently this is on the top right hand side of the machine as you look at it from the rear after taking the back off!
I was also wondering if you had found the fault and managed to fix it, as any other suggestions would be greatly received.
Many Thanks
James
James Hodges
April 2006