FixByModel
E23

Frigidaire E23: Drain pump control relay failed

The electronic control board detects a fault in the relay that switches the drain pump, or a broken connection to the pump. This is a control-board level issue rather than a simple clog.

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Failed drain pump relay on the main control board
  2. Loose or disconnected wiring to the drain pump
  3. Faulty main electronic control board
The drain path — check in this order
1Drum
2Sump hose
3Filter
4Drain pump
5Drain hose

Schematic illustration of a typical washing machine — not your exact model.

Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Power cycleUnplug the washer for a couple of minutes and restart to rule out a one-time glitch.
2Check pump wiringWith power off, inspect the wire harness between the control board and drain pump for loose or damaged connectors.
3Rule out the pumpVerify the drain pump itself is not seized, since a shorted pump can trigger the relay fault.
4Call a technicianIf wiring is intact, the control board relay has failed and the board should be diagnosed and replaced by a pro.

Still showing E23?

If you’ve worked through every step and E23 keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Frigidaire washing machines. Front-load models (Affinity, Gallery, Professional); E24 is the related pump-triac variant

FAQ

What does Frigidaire E23 mean?

Drain pump control relay failed. The electronic control board detects a fault in the relay that switches the drain pump, or a broken connection to the pump. This is a control-board level issue rather than a simple clog.

What causes Frigidaire E23?

The most likely cause is failed drain pump relay on the main control board. Other causes include Loose or disconnected wiring to the drain pump; Faulty main electronic control board.

Can I fix Frigidaire E23 myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.