mypros+
Error code reference

Frigidaire Washer Error Code E5B

Low voltage fault

Low voltage fault – the DC bus voltage has gone below 150 V.

First step from the service manual

Check whether wiring is proper.

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 E5B.

  • 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 E5B means on a Frigidaire washer

The E5B error code on a Frigidaire washer indicates a low voltage fault on the DC bus. Specifically, the inverter board has detected that the DC bus voltage has dropped below 150 volts. The DC bus is the internal DC power rail that the inverter uses to generate the variable-frequency AC power supplied to the drive motor. When this rail voltage falls below the minimum threshold, the control system shuts down motor operation to prevent damage to both the inverter components and the motor itself.

The most common cause of this fault is insufficient or unstable incoming AC line voltage. If the household supply voltage is low, drops under load, or the washer is connected through an undersized extension cord or a weak circuit, the rectified DC bus voltage will fall below the 150 V threshold. Wiring integrity is the first area to check: loose connections at the terminal block, a deteriorated power cord, or corroded contacts can all cause voltage drop under load.

Beyond supply-side issues, a failing or undersized capacitor on the DC bus can cause voltage sag, and a fault within the inverter board itself can produce an erroneous low-voltage reading. The power board that rectifies incoming AC to DC is also a suspect if wiring and supply voltage both check out. Systematically verifying the supply voltage at the outlet, inspecting all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion, and then evaluating the power and inverter boards in sequence will identify the root cause.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E5B

  1. 01

    Low or unstable household supply voltage

    Wiring / connection

    If the wall outlet voltage is below normal levels, the internal DC bus voltage will drop below the 150 V minimum threshold. Test the outlet voltage with a multimeter, especially while the washer is running under load.

  2. 02

    Loose or damaged wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    Loose terminals at the power inlet, internal wiring harness connectors, or corroded contacts can cause voltage drop under load. Inspect all wiring connections for tightness, corrosion, and signs of heat damage.

  3. 03

    Faulty power board

    Part replacement

    The power board rectifies incoming AC to produce the DC bus voltage. If it is failing, it may not maintain adequate DC bus voltage even when AC supply is normal. Look for burned components or failed capacitors on the board.

  4. 04

    Faulty inverter board

    Part replacement

    The inverter board monitors the DC bus voltage and triggers the E5B fault when it reads below 150 V. A defective inverter board can produce this fault erroneously or fail to sustain proper bus voltage. This is typically diagnosed after the power board and wiring have been ruled out.

  5. 05

    Inadequate power cord or circuit wiring

    Wiring / connection

    Using an extension cord, a long undersized run of outlet wiring, or a circuit shared with other high-draw appliances can cause voltage to sag when the washer motor draws current. Ensure the washer is on a dedicated, properly rated circuit.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E5B

What does E5B mean on a Frigidaire washer?
E5B is a low voltage fault indicating the DC bus voltage inside the washer's inverter system has dropped below 150 volts. The washer monitors this internal DC power rail to ensure the drive motor can operate safely. When the voltage falls below the threshold, the machine halts and displays E5B to prevent component damage.
Can I fix the E5B error myself?
Some causes are DIY-friendly. You can check the outlet voltage with a multimeter, inspect the power cord for damage, and verify all accessible wiring connections are tight and free of corrosion. If the supply voltage and wiring are fine, the fault likely involves the power board or inverter board, which are more complex repairs that require component identification and board replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my washer when E5B appears?
No, you should not continue operating the washer while this fault is active. Low DC bus voltage can cause the inverter and motor to operate outside safe parameters, potentially damaging these components further. Address the root cause before running another cycle.
Will resetting the washer clear the E5B error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying cause has not been corrected, the fault will return during the next wash cycle. Resetting is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it is not a fix. Diagnose and resolve the voltage or wiring issue first.
How much does it cost to repair a Frigidaire washer with an E5B error?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If the problem is simply a loose wire or a low-voltage outlet, the cost may be minimal. Replacing a power board or inverter board typically costs between $150 and $400 including parts and labor, depending on your location and the specific model. Getting a professional diagnosis first can help avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.

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

Get Started

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