Frigidaire Dryer Error Code E5 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

E5 on a Frigidaire dryer means the main control board detected an internal error. The board is the brain of the dryer — it controls all functions. A reset fixes many E5 errors, but a failing board may need to be replaced.

Affected Models

Frigidaire Electric Dryer
Frigidaire Gas Dryer
Frigidaire Gallery Dryer
Frigidaire Affinity Dryer

Common Causes

A power surge or fluctuation caused a control board glitch
A wiring harness connector has come loose between the board and a component
The main control board itself has a failed component
The dryer is on an extension cord or undersized circuit causing voltage drops

How to Fix It

Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet. Wait a full 2 minutes before plugging it back in.

Two minutes allows all capacitors on the control board to fully discharge and reset — more effective than a quick unplug.
Plug the dryer back in and start a cycle. If E5 was triggered by a power surge or brief outage, this reset will clear it.

Many E5 errors after thunderstorms or power interruptions resolve with this simple step.
Make sure the dryer is plugged directly into a dedicated 240V wall outlet — not an extension cord or power strip.

Extension cords cannot safely carry dryer loads. Voltage drops can trigger control board errors repeatedly.
If E5 returns, unplug the dryer again and check the wiring harness connectors at the control board. Disconnect and firmly reseat each connector.

Vibration from normal dryer use can slowly loosen wire connections over months of use.
If E5 still persists, call a Frigidaire-certified technician to run diagnostics on the control board before ordering replacement parts.

Control boards for Frigidaire dryers typically cost $80 to $200 for the part alone.

When to Call a Professional

If E5 returns after multiple resets, the control board is likely failing. Replacing a control board is not a DIY job for most people — it must be matched exactly to your model. A technician can diagnose and replace it for $130 to $250 including parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E5 covered under Frigidaire warranty?

Most Frigidaire dryers come with a 1-year limited warranty. A control board failure within that period should be covered. Contact Frigidaire at 1-800-374-4432 with your model and serial number.

How do I know if my control board is failing vs just needing a reset?

If E5 clears after a reset and doesn't come back for weeks, it was likely a one-time glitch. If E5 returns every few cycles or immediately after reset, the board is failing. A technician can run a diagnostic mode to confirm.

Can I use a surge protector with my Frigidaire dryer?

Standard home surge protectors are not rated for 240V dryer loads. Your dryer needs a direct connection to a dedicated wall outlet with its own circuit breaker. If you are worried about power surges, have an electrician install a whole-home surge protector.