Frigidaire Dishwasher Error E2 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E2 means your Frigidaire dishwasher started a cycle but the water temperature never reached the required level within the allowed time. This is usually caused by a failed heating element, a faulty thermostat, or a broken thermistor feeding incorrect data to the control board. Most repairs involve testing and replacing one of these components.

Affected Models

FFCD2413US
FFBD2420SS
FGID2466QF
FFBD2411NS
FGID2479SF

Common Causes

Heating element has burned out and can no longer heat the water
High-limit thermostat has tripped and is blocking power to the heating element
Thermistor is giving an inaccurate temperature reading to the control board
Incoming water from the hot water supply is too cold (below 120°F / 49°C)
Control board relay for the heating circuit has failed

How to Fix It

Before anything else, run your kitchen hot water tap until the water is hot. Then start the dishwasher immediately — this ensures the machine starts with already-hot water from the supply line.

Frigidaire dishwashers expect incoming water at 120°F (49°C). Cold incoming water can trigger E2 before the heating element can compensate.
Power-cycle the dishwasher: turn off the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power and run a short cycle to see if E2 returns.

Occasional E2 errors caused by a one-time cold-water event will clear with a reset.
Locate the heating element — a looped metal rod at the bottom of the tub. Visually inspect it for burn marks, breaks, or corrosion.

Any visible break or burnt spot means the element has failed and needs replacement.
With power OFF, disconnect the heating element wires and test the element with a multimeter set to continuity. A working element will beep or show a low resistance reading.

No continuity (OL reading) confirms the element is burned out. Replacement elements for most Frigidaire models cost $20–$40.
If the heating element tests fine, test the thermistor as described in the E1 guide. A faulty thermistor reporting cold temperatures can cause E2 even when the water is actually hot.

Thermistor and heating element faults together account for the vast majority of E2 errors.
Inspect the high-limit thermostat (a small disc clipped near the heating element). Test it for continuity — it should always show continuity when cold.

A tripped or failed high-limit thermostat cuts power to the heating circuit. If it shows no continuity, replace it before suspecting the control board.

When to Call a Professional

If you have confirmed the heating element is broken with a multimeter (no continuity), replacing it is a straightforward DIY repair for most homeowners. If the heating element tests fine but E2 still appears, the fault likely lies with the control board, which is more complex to diagnose and replace. Call a technician if the error persists after you have replaced both the thermistor and heating element, as the control board may need to be tested or replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Frigidaire dishwasher show E2 only in winter?

In winter, groundwater is colder and your hot water supply line may deliver cooler water than in summer, especially if the dishwasher is far from your water heater. Always run the hot tap before starting the dishwasher in cold weather.

Can I run my dishwasher with error E2 showing?

The machine will not complete the cycle because it cannot confirm proper wash temperature. Your dishes will not be sanitized properly, so it is best to resolve the issue before running a full load.

How much does it cost to fix Frigidaire dishwasher error E2?

A replacement heating element costs $20–$40 for the part alone and takes about 30 minutes to replace yourself. A technician repair including diagnosis, parts, and labor typically runs $120–$200.