mypros+
Error code reference

Frigidaire Washer Error Code E38

Air chamber clogged or pressure sensor defective.

Frigidaire codesFrigidaire washer codes

Air chamber clogged or pressure sensor defective.

First step from the service manual

Check air chamber, replace pressure sensor.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for E38.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What E38 means on a Frigidaire washer

The E38 error code on a Frigidaire washer indicates a fault within the water level sensing system, specifically pointing to either a clogged air chamber or a defective pressure sensor (also called a pressure switch). This system works by trapping air in a small chamber connected to the tub via a hose. As the tub fills with water, the rising water compresses the air in the chamber, and the pressure sensor reads that compressed air pressure to determine the current water level. When the system fails to report accurate readings, the control board generates E38 to flag the malfunction.

The most common physical cause is a blockage in the air chamber or the small-diameter hose connecting it to the tub. Soap residue, lint, and mineral deposits can accumulate inside this hose or chamber over time, preventing accurate pressure changes from reaching the sensor. When the passage is partially or fully obstructed, the sensor cannot detect the correct water level, which can cause the washer to overfill, underfill, or halt mid-cycle.

If the air chamber and hose are clear, the pressure sensor itself may be faulty. The sensor is an electromechanical component that translates air pressure into an electrical signal for the control board. A failed sensor can produce out-of-range or erratic signals even when water level conditions are normal. Diagnosing between a clogged chamber and a defective sensor typically involves visually inspecting and clearing the hose and chamber first, then testing the sensor's electrical output or substituting a known-good unit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E38

  1. 01

    Clogged air chamber hose

    Wiring / connection

    Soap scum, lint, or mineral buildup inside the small hose connecting the tub to the air chamber blocks airflow to the pressure sensor. Disconnect the hose and inspect it visually or blow through it to check for obstructions.

  2. 02

    Blocked air chamber

    Wiring / connection

    The air chamber itself can accumulate residue that prevents it from accurately trapping and transmitting air pressure changes. Removing and rinsing the chamber often resolves this without part replacement.

  3. 03

    Defective pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    The pressure sensor may have failed electrically or mechanically, producing incorrect signals to the control board even when the air path is clear. If cleaning the hose and chamber does not clear the error, the sensor likely needs to be replaced.

  4. 04

    Kinked or disconnected air hose

    Wiring / connection

    Physical damage or a loose connection at either end of the air hose can interrupt the pressure signal just as effectively as a clog. Inspect the full length of the hose for kinks, cracks, or loose fittings.

  5. 05

    Control board communication fault

    Part replacement

    In less common cases, the control board may misinterpret or fail to receive the signal from an otherwise functional pressure sensor. This is typically considered only after the air chamber, hose, and sensor have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E38

What does E38 mean on a Frigidaire washer?
E38 indicates that the washer's water level sensing system has detected a problem, specifically a clogged air chamber or a defective pressure sensor. The pressure sensor relies on a clear air path through a small hose and chamber to measure water level in the tub. When that path is blocked or the sensor fails, the control board triggers E38 and may halt the cycle to prevent overfilling or other issues.
Can I fix E38 on my Frigidaire washer myself?
Yes, in many cases this is a DIY-friendly repair. Start by locating the air hose connected to the pressure sensor, then disconnect it and check for blockages or kinks. Cleaning out any soap residue or lint from the hose and air chamber often resolves the error without replacing any parts. If cleaning does not help, replacing the pressure sensor is the next step and is a straightforward swap for someone comfortable working inside the washer cabinet.
Is it safe to keep using my washer while E38 is displayed?
It is not recommended to continue running the washer while E38 is active. Because the water level sensor is not functioning correctly, the machine may overfill the tub, which can lead to water leaking onto the floor or damage to internal components. Address the error before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair an E38 error on a Frigidaire washer?
If the fix is simply cleaning the air hose and chamber, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. If the pressure sensor needs to be replaced, the part itself typically runs in the range of $15 to $50 depending on the model, with professional labor adding $75 to $150 or more. Diagnosing and cleaning the system yourself first can save significantly on total repair cost.
Will resetting my Frigidaire washer clear the E38 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but it will return as soon as the washer attempts to use the water level sensing system again if the underlying problem has not been resolved. To permanently clear E38, the clogged air chamber or hose must be cleaned out, or the faulty pressure sensor must be replaced.

Related Frigidaire washer codes

All Frigidaire washer codes
View all 100 Frigidaire washer codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass