## How to Fix Frigidaire Error E23 (Drain Pump Relay)
If your Frigidaire washing machine is displaying the “E23” error code, your machine has detected a fault related to the draining system. While the drain pump itself might be functioning fine, the signal that tells it when and how to run is failing.
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### 1. Explanation: What Frigidaire Error E23 Means
The E23 error code specifically points to an issue with the **Drain Pump Relay Circuit**.
* **What is the Drain Pump Relay?** This is a switch, usually located on the main electronic control board (PCB), that controls the power supplied to the drain pump motor.
* **What does the error indicate?** The machine’s control system is attempting to activate the drain pump but is not detecting the corresponding change in voltage or resistance that indicates the relay has successfully closed (turned on).
* **The Culprit:** Although you might immediately suspect the pump, the E23 error usually means the **Main Control Board** itself is defective, specifically the internal components (the relay or surrounding circuitry) responsible for powering the pump.
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### 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the Issue
Before immediately replacing the expensive control board, you should perform a quick inspection to rule out common, external faults.
#### Step 1: Power Cycle and Visual Check (Safety First)
1. **Unplug the Washer:** Disconnect the machine from the power outlet for at least 5 minutes. This allows the internal memory to clear.
2. **Inspect the Drain Pump:** Open the front access panel or remove the back panel (depending on your model) to locate the drain pump, usually found near the bottom of the tub.
3. **Check Connections:** Ensure the wiring harness connecting the main control board to the drain pump is securely fastened and free of any obvious damage (chafing, melting, or corrosion).
4. **Test the Pump (Manual Drain):** Open the drain pump filter cap (or access port). Ensure there are no foreign objects (coins, lint, socks) jamming the impeller, which can cause the control board to sense an electrical overload (though this usually triggers an E13 or E11).
5. **Re-test:** Plug the washer back in and attempt a drain or spin cycle. If the E23 error returns immediately, proceed to Step 2.
#### Step 2: Test the Drain Pump (Measure Resistance)
We need to verify that the pump motor itself is electrically sound.
1. **Disconnect Power:** Ensure the washer is unplugged.
2. **Access the Pump:** Locate the electrical connector leading to the drain pump. Disconnect it.
3. **Use a Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the resistance setting (Ohms, Ω).
4. **Measure Continuity:** Place the probes on the two terminals of the drain pump motor.
5. **Expected Reading:** A functional drain pump motor should usually show resistance between **10 and 20 Ohms**. If your reading is **zero (0)** or **infinite (OL)**, the drain pump motor is shorted or open, and you must replace the pump.
* *If the pump reads correct resistance (10-20 Ohms), the pump is good. Proceed to Step 3.*
#### Step 3: Confirm the Main Control Board Failure
Since the E23 error specifically flags the relay circuit, and you have confirmed the wiring and the pump motor itself are good (Steps 1 & 2), the failure must reside on the Main Control Board.
1. **Locate the Control Board:** This board is typically located in the back of the washer, near the top, or sometimes beneath the top panel.
2. **Visual Inspection:** Look closely at the board, especially around the large plastic relays. Signs of failure include:
* Burn marks or scorching.
* Swollen or leaking capacitors (small cylindrical components).
* A distinct “burnt electronics” smell.
3. **The Solution:** If the pump motor is confirmed good, the only resolution for the E23 error is to **replace the Main Control Board.** The control board is a sealed unit and its internal components (like the relay) cannot be reliably repaired in the field.
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### 3. Call to Action
The Main Control Board handles all machine operations and is an exact-fit part. Ensure you match the part number to your specific Frigidaire model.
Check the price for a replacement Main Control Board here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Frigidaire+Main Control Board&tag=trivian-20