How to Fix Frigidaire Washer Error Code E38

If your Frigidaire washer displays the E38 error, this is a fairly common problem that can often be resolved with some straightforward troubleshooting steps. We’ll walk you through the most likely causes and how to fix the issue yourself without the need to call in a repair technician. 

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The troubleshooting information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What does the error code mean?

Error code E38 on a Frigidaire washer indicates that the air trap is clogged. The air trap is a component connected to the pressure sensor, which monitors the water level in the washer drum. When the air trap becomes clogged, it can prevent the pressure sensor from accurately detecting the water level, leading to an error condition. This error can result in issues such as continuous water entry, incorrect water level readings, and potential overfilling. Addressing this error involves checking for clogs in the air trap, inspecting and potentially replacing the water valve assembly, pressure sensor switch, and, if necessary, the main control board.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Troubleshooting steps

Step 1: Check water supply

1. Unplug the washer from the power source and observe if the water stops entering the washer.
2. If the water stops, check the wiring to the valve assembly for shorts.

Step 2: Test the water valve assembly 

1. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the water valve solenoids, place the multimeter probes on the terminals of each solenoid, and check for a reading between 500-1500 ohms. 
3. If the reading is outside this range, the valve is faulty and should be replaced.

Step 3: Check and pressure sensor switch

1. Remove the top panel using a screwdriver to remove the screws, slide the top panel back, and lift it off. Locate the pressure sensor switch near the air trap.
2. Disconnect the wiring harness from the pressure sensor switch and remove the hose connected to the sensor.
3. Set your multimeter to the continuity setting.
4. Disconnect the pressure sensor switch, place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the sensor, and check for continuity. 
5. If there is no continuity, the pressure sensor switch is faulty and needs replacement.

Step 4: Inspect and clean the air trap

1. Locate the air trap near the bottom of the washer, connected to the pressure sensor.
2. Inspect the air trap and its hose for any clogs or debris.
3. Clean out any blockages found.

Step 5: Final checks

1. After checking and replacing any necessary parts, test the washer to ensure the problem is resolved. 
2. If the problem persists, replace the main control board.

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

Be sure to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Keep Reading:

Install a Washer Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

How a washing machine pressure sensor works

How does a front load washer work?