Troubleshooting Frigidaire dishwasher error codes UF, UC and UO

If your Frigidaire dishwasher is displaying an error code, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. However, with the right knowledge and tools, you can easily troubleshoot and fix these issues, getting your dishwasher back up and running in no time. By the end of this article, you will be able to diagnose and fix any of these error codes and get your dishwasher working properly again. So, let’s get started!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Frigidaire dishwasher 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 information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What the error codes means

• UF- Vent motor rpm too low or stopped
• UC- Vent stuck closed
• UO- Vent stuck open

These errors indicates that the vent fan in the dishwasher is not functioning properly. The vent fan is responsible for drawing in cooler, drier air from outside the tub and pushing it down into the tub during the drying portion of the cycle. This helps to remove hot, moist air from the tub and create a dry environment for the dishes to dry. The error codes can be caused by a faulty vent fan motor, or a problem with the vent fan’s electrical connection. 

When the vent fan is defective, blocked or damaged, it can cause the dishwasher to not dry the dishes properly. This can result in wet or damp dishes, which can be a problem for the dishwasher’s performance and the quality of the cleaning.

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.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts. 
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short circuiting when testing. 
• 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.
• 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. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.

Tools needed

• 5/8″ wrench
• 5’16” nut driver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver

Accessing the vent

1. Make sure the dishwasher power cord is unplugged or the breaker is off. Open the dishwasher door completely.
2. Gently pull out the top rails a little to remove the end caps. Each end cap has a catch at the bottom. Release the catch and pull off the end caps from the rails. Repeat this step for both rails. 
3. Pull out the top dishwasher rack and set it aside.
4. Locate the nut in the upper right corner inside the tub. Unscrew the nut by hand. Once removed, set the nut aside.
5. Place a towel on the floor beneath the sink. When disconnecting the fill line and drain hose, some water may spill.
6. Disconnecting the fill line, which is connected to the hot water valve. Make sure that the water valve is turned off. Use a 5/8 inch wrench to loosen the hose. Set the fill line aside.
7. Follow the drain hose to its connection point, which could be the garbage disposal or an air gap. Loosen the clamp using a 5/16 nut driver and detach the drain hose. Set it down.
8. Use a phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting bracket screws that secure the cabinet to the countertop.
9. Lift the dishwasher door and carefully pull the dishwasher out so that it is fully removed from the cabinet.
10. Remove the cover that protects the vent fan motor electrical harness by using a small flat head screwdriver. Set the cover aside. Carefully detach the wiring harness from the vent blower.
11. Check for any damage to the wiring to the fan and for any blockages preventing the fan from running. If there is no obvious damage, replace the fan motor and run a test to check if the error code reappears. 

Additional information

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