mypros+
Error code reference

Frigidaire Washer Error Code EF1

Washer clogged drain pump.

Frigidaire codesFrigidaire washer codes

Washer clogged drain pump.

First step from the service manual

Unclog the drain pump.

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 EF1.

  • 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 EF1 means on a Frigidaire washer

The EF1 error code on a Frigidaire washer indicates a clogged drain pump condition. The drain pump is responsible for evacuating water from the wash tub at the end of each cycle phase. When the pump becomes restricted or blocked, water cannot exit the machine at the required rate, and the control board triggers EF1 to alert the user and halt the cycle to prevent overflow or motor damage.

The most common cause of EF1 is debris accumulation inside the drain pump housing or the pump filter screen. Items such as coins, lint, small clothing articles, hair ties, and other foreign objects can pass through the drum and lodge in the pump impeller or filter, reducing or completely blocking water flow. In some cases, a kinked or pinched drain hose can produce similar symptoms by restricting the discharge path.

Diagnosing EF1 begins with accessing and inspecting the drain pump filter, which on most Frigidaire front-load washers is located behind a small access panel at the lower front of the machine. The filter should be unscrewed carefully with a towel and container in place to catch residual water. Any debris found should be removed, and the filter and pump housing should be rinsed clean. If the pump impeller itself is jammed or damaged after clearing the obstruction, the pump assembly may require replacement to restore normal drain function.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of EF1

  1. 01

    Clogged drain pump filter

    Wiring / connection

    Lint, coins, hair ties, and small debris collect in the drain pump filter over time and restrict water flow. Locate the filter behind the lower front access panel, remove it, and clear any buildup.

  2. 02

    Foreign object in the pump impeller

    Wiring / connection

    Small items like buttons or coins can bypass the filter and jam the pump impeller, preventing it from spinning. You may hear a humming sound from the pump motor if the impeller is seized.

  3. 03

    Kinked or clogged drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    A bent, kinked, or internally blocked drain hose restricts water discharge and can trigger EF1. Inspect the hose from the pump to the standpipe or sink drain for obstructions or sharp bends.

  4. 04

    Blocked household drain standpipe

    Wiring / connection

    If the home drain line where the washer hose discharges is slow or clogged, water backs up and the washer cannot drain properly. Test by checking if other nearby drains are slow.

  5. 05

    Damaged or failed drain pump

    Part replacement

    If the pump impeller is cracked or the pump motor has failed after a jam, clearing the clog will not restore function and the pump assembly will need to be replaced. A failed pump typically produces no sound or a constant hum during the drain cycle.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about EF1

What does EF1 mean on a Frigidaire washer?
EF1 on a Frigidaire washer means the drain pump is clogged and the machine cannot properly evacuate water from the tub. The washer halts the cycle and displays this code to prevent overflow or pump motor damage. Clearing the blockage from the pump filter or impeller is the primary fix.
How do I fix the EF1 error on my Frigidaire washer?
Start by locating the drain pump filter, typically behind a small panel at the lower front of the washer. Place a towel and shallow container beneath the cap, then unscrew the filter slowly to drain residual water. Remove any debris from the filter and housing, then reinstall and run a drain or rinse cycle to confirm the blockage is cleared. If the error persists, inspect the drain hose for kinks and check the pump impeller for damage.
Is it safe to use my Frigidaire washer when EF1 is displayed?
You should not continue using the washer while EF1 is active. The machine has already stopped the cycle to protect itself, and attempting to run another cycle with a blocked pump can overheat the pump motor or cause water to back up into the tub. Address the clog before resuming laundry.
Will resetting my Frigidaire washer clear the EF1 error?
Resetting the washer by unplugging it for a few minutes may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but it will not resolve the underlying clog. The EF1 code will return as soon as the washer attempts to drain again if the blockage has not been physically removed. Always clear the obstruction first before attempting a reset.
How much does it cost to repair an EF1 error on a Frigidaire washer?
If the issue is simply a clogged filter or debris in the pump, the repair can be done at no parts cost with just a few minutes of cleaning. If the drain pump impeller is damaged or the pump motor has failed, a replacement drain pump assembly typically costs between $40 and $120 for the part, with professional labor adding $80 to $200 depending on your area.

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