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Error code reference

Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code E:20

Faulty heat pump motor winding; wash cycle abruptly ends with Clean/Sanitized LEDs lit.

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What the E:20 error code actually means

Your dishwasher detected a problem with the internal pump motor that heats the water and helps with drying. The machine stopped mid-cycle to protect itself from further damage. This typically means either the pump motor has worn out internally or there is a wiring connection problem between the motor and the control board.

Diagnostic procedure

The full E:20 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Check continuity between heat pump (m2) and power module. Measure heat pump resistance between any 2 terminals (~15.2 Ω at room temp).
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Most common causes of E:20

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Failed heat pump motor winding
  2. 2Shorted motor winding insulation
  3. 3Open or damaged wiring harness between M2 and power module
  4. 4Corroded or loose M2 connector terminals
  5. 5Failed power module

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Questions people ask about E:20

What does E:20 mean on a Frigidaire dishwasher?
E:20 signals a fault in the heat pump motor winding, identified as M2 in the system. The dishwasher detects an electrical abnormality in the motor circuit and shuts down the wash cycle immediately, lighting the Clean and Sanitized LEDs. The fault is confirmed by measuring motor winding resistance at the heat pump terminals, which should read approximately 15.2 ohms at room temperature.
Is it safe to use my dishwasher when E:20 appears?
No, you should not continue running the dishwasher while E:20 is active. The code indicates a motor winding fault that can place abnormal load on the power module and wiring. Continued use risks additional component damage and should be avoided until the underlying fault is diagnosed and corrected.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the E:20 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the code and allow a cycle to start, but E:20 will return if the underlying motor winding fault or wiring issue is still present. The wash cycle will again end abruptly once the control system detects the fault. A reset is not a fix and should only be used as part of the diagnostic process, not as a long-term solution.
Can I fix E:20 myself, or do I need a technician?
A knowledgeable DIYer comfortable with a multimeter can perform the initial diagnostics by checking continuity in the wiring harness and measuring resistance at the heat pump terminals. If the harness has a loose connector, that can often be repaired without special tools. Replacing the heat pump motor or power module is a more involved repair that may be better suited to a technician with experience on this platform.
How much does it cost to repair a Frigidaire dishwasher showing E:20?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A wiring harness repair or connector replacement is typically the least expensive option, often falling in the range of $50 to $150 including labor. A replacement heat pump motor assembly generally costs between $100 and $250 for the part, plus labor. A power module replacement can range from $150 to $350 or more depending on parts availability and local labor rates.

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