Clear the EF1 error on a Frigidaire dryer with these troubleshooting steps

Is your Frigidaire dryer displaying the error code EF1? Don’t panic! Let’s unpack the meaning behind this error message and how you can resolve it so you can get your machine back up and running.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Frigidaire dryer 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.

Disclaimer: The error code 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 EF1 error code mean?

When your Frigidaire dryer displays the EF1 error, it likely indicates a vent blockage. If there’s a restriction in the dryer’s vent system, this can prevent hot air exhaustion, which can overheat your dryer and potentially cause a fire.

A blocked vent can significantly impact the dryer’s ability to dry laundry. When the vent is obstructed, hot air and moisture can’t escape from the dryer, which can lead to longer drying times.

Several factors can contribute to a vent blockage, including:

• Lint buildup in the vent hose, exhaust duct, or exterior vent hood
• Debris or foreign objects such as bird nests and leaves in the vent system
• An incorrect or or lengthy vent system with sharp bends, kinks or breaks
• Flexible foil ducting with folds or plastic ducting (rigid metal ducting is strongly recommended)

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

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 you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Read more: 9 Ways To Improve Your Dryer’s Performance

How to troubleshoot an EF1 error message

Follow these steps to clear the EF1 code from your Frigidaire dryer.

Step 1: Clean the vent & ducting

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Check the lint filter (also called a lint trap) and clean it as needed. The lint filter should be cleaned after each drying cycle. If the filter is damaged, replace it.
3. Clean any lint buildup both in and around the filter housing. You can use a vacuum cleaner to do this.
4. Disconnect the exhaust vent on the back of the dryer.
5. Inspect the entire length of the vent hose for any blockages from lint buildup or other debris. Use a dryer vent cleaning brush to clear the entire hose.
6. Check the exterior vent that the hose connects to for any obstructions. Clean it as needed.
7. Make sure the vent hose is reconnected correctly to the dryer and securely fastened.

If the vent and ducting look good, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Test the thermistors

1. Find the exhaust control thermistor and inlet control thermistor. They should be located near the blower housing or on the air duct.
2. Take a photo of the wires, then disconnect the wires connected to each thermistor.
3. Look over each thermistor. If there’s any visible damage, replace them as needed.
4. Look over the wiring and terminal connections. If you find any damage, replace the wiring.
5. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
6. Touch the multimeter probes to the terminals of the exhaust control thermistor and check the multimeter reading.
7. Touch the multimeter probes to the inlet control thermistor and check the multimeter reading.
8. Compare the resistance values you got for each thermistor with the table of acceptable values, which may be listed in the dryer’s technical sheet.

If the resistance values are outside the acceptable ranges, then the affected thermistor(s) should be replaced.

If both thermistors look and test OK, put the dryer back together and plug it back in. If the error code still shows, replace the control board as a last resort.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Frigidaire dryer 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.

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