Frigidaire Dishwasher Error E1 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E1 means your Frigidaire dishwasher cannot read the water temperature because the thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed or is disconnected. Without a working thermistor, the dishwasher cannot regulate wash temperature and will stop the cycle as a safety measure. You can often fix this by checking the sensor wiring, but a faulty thermistor usually needs to be replaced.

Affected Models

FFCD2413US
FFBD2420SS
FGID2466QF
FFBD2411NS
FGID2479SF

Common Causes

Thermistor (temperature sensor) has burned out or failed
Wiring harness connector to the thermistor is loose or corroded
Thermistor is covered in hard water scale or debris
Control board is not receiving signal from the thermistor
Thermistor resistance is out of the expected range

How to Fix It

Cancel the current cycle and run a power reset: turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power.

A power reset clears temporary faults. If E1 returns immediately, the thermistor is genuinely failing and needs inspection.
Open the dishwasher door and locate the thermistor — it is typically a small disc-shaped sensor clipped to the inner tub wall near the bottom, or attached to the sump assembly.

Consult your model's wiring diagram (available at Frigidaire.com under your model number) if you cannot locate it.
Inspect the thermistor and its wiring connector. Disconnect the connector and check for corrosion, bent pins, or loose fit. Reconnect firmly.

A loose connector is a common cause of E1 and is a free fix.
If there is visible lime scale on the sensor body, clean it gently with white vinegar on a cloth.

Scale buildup can insulate the sensor and cause false temperature readings.
Use a multimeter set to resistance (ohms) and test the thermistor across its two terminals. At room temperature (~70°F / 21°C) the reading should be approximately 10,000–50,000 ohms.

A reading of 0 (short) or OL (open/infinite) confirms the thermistor has failed and must be replaced.
Order and install a replacement thermistor for your model number. Unclip the old sensor, disconnect the wiring harness, and snap the new one into place.

Replacement thermistors for Frigidaire dishwashers typically cost $10–$25 and are widely available online.

When to Call a Professional

If you have tested the thermistor with a multimeter and the resistance reading is outside 10,000–50,000 ohms at room temperature, the part needs to be replaced. Replacing the thermistor involves working inside the dishwasher tub and handling electrical connectors — it is manageable for a handy homeowner but requires care. Call a technician if you are uncomfortable working with appliance wiring or if the error persists after replacing the thermistor, which may indicate a faulty control board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use my Frigidaire dishwasher while error E1 is showing?

No — the dishwasher will not complete a normal cycle because it cannot verify wash temperature. Using it repeatedly in this state will not damage the machine further, but your dishes will not be properly cleaned or sanitized.

Can I reset error E1 by just unplugging the dishwasher?

A power reset may clear the code temporarily, but if the thermistor has genuinely failed the error will return within the next cycle. You need to inspect and test the sensor to find a permanent fix.

How much does it cost to fix Frigidaire dishwasher error E1?

If you replace the thermistor yourself the part costs $10–$25. If you hire a technician, expect a total repair bill of $80–$150 including parts and labor.