Got frustrating error codes flashing on your dryer? Don’t sweat it! This quick guide breaks down how to troubleshoot and fix the common E71 error on Frigidaire models. With a few basic tools and easy step-by-step instructions, you can diagnose and solve the problem in no time. Learn what’s causing the E71, safety tips before diving in, and tips to test and replace the faulty part. Take control and save money by repairing appliance issues yourself – let’s do this!
Understanding the E71 Error
Do you have a Frigidaire dryer displaying an E71 error code? This error indicates a problem with the outlet control thermistor in your dryer. Don’t worry – this issue can often be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps.
What Does the E71 Error Mean?
The E71 error code means there is an issue with the outlet control thermistor in your Frigidaire dryer. The thermistor is a sensor that checks the temperature of the air leaving the dryer. It lets the control board know if the air is too hot or too cold.
When you see an E71 error, it usually means one of these things is happening:
- There is an open circuit in the thermistor wiring
- The thermistor wires are loosely connected
- There is a problem with the control board
- A power surge or electrical issue damaged the thermistor
Any of these can prevent the thermistor from accurately reading the outlet air temperature. Without this vital temperature data, the dryer doesn’t know when to turn the heat on or off. So it displays the E71 error code instead.
What Causes the E71 Error?
What might have caused this thermistor problem in your Frigidaire dryer? Here are some possible causes to check:
- Damaged thermistor wires: The thermistor wiring could be broken or disconnected. This can happen due to normal wear and tear over time.
- Loose connections: Vibration from the dryer can loosen wire connections. This could interrupt the circuit and cause an open wire.
- Bad control board: If the control board is malfunctioning, it may fail to read the thermistor properly. This will trigger the E71 error.
- Power surge: A power surge or spike could have damaged the outlet control thermistor or control board.
- Electrical issue: Any problem with your home’s electrical supply could affect the dryer’s thermistor circuit and cause the E71 code.
Before trying to fix an E71 error yourself, it’s important to understand what’s causing it in your specific Frigidaire dryer. The troubleshooting steps will be easier once you’ve narrowed down the likely cause.
Preparing for Troubleshooting
Before you start digging into your Frigidaire dryer to troubleshoot the E71 error, take some time to gather the right tools and supplies. Rushing into appliance repairs can lead to mistakes or injury. Being prepared will make the job much smoother.
Tools and Materials Needed
To accurately diagnose and fix an E71 thermistor error, you’ll want these handy:
- Multimeter: This tool measures electrical resistance and voltage. You’ll use it to test the thermistor circuit.
- Insulated work gloves: Wearing gloves protects your hands from sharp parts and hot surfaces inside the dryer.
- Dryer manual: Review the steps in your model’s repair manual before getting started.
Safety Tips to Remember
Working on an appliance can be dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Unplug the dryer before doing any work. This prevents electric shock.
- Allow the dryer time to cool completely before servicing. Avoid burns.
- Work slowly and carefully. Rushing can lead to mistakes and injuries.
- Make sure the area is well-lit and free of clutter. You don’t want any tripping hazards.
- Never work on an appliance with wet hands. That’s very unsafe around electricity.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts.
- Avoid touching any exposed wires or connectors when testing with a multimeter.
- Take pictures or label wires before disconnecting anything. This makes reassembly easier.
- Use extreme caution when testing live voltages. Electric shock is possible.
- Consult the user manual for model-specific safety steps. Don’t overlook anything important.
With the right tools and safety gear, you can troubleshoot that E71 error confidently. The extra preparation will pay off with a successful repair!
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Now that you’re prepared with tools and safety knowledge, it’s time to troubleshoot the E71 error in your Frigidaire dryer. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Locating the Thermistor
Pinpointing the location of the outlet control thermistor is the first step:
- Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. This cuts off electrical power to the dryer for safety. Don’t skip this crucial first step!
- Open the dryer cabinet door and find the thermistor. It’s mounted to the blower housing near the back of the drum. Consult your specific model’s repair manual to see labeled diagrams of the exact location.
- The thermistor is a small plastic sensor with two wire terminals. It should be positioned to check the air temperature as it exits the dryer through the vent.
- If you’re having trouble finding the thermistor, look for a small plastic piece with two wires near the blower housing. It may be tucked away out of plain sight.
Once you’ve visually located the outlet control thermistor, you can move on to inspecting the wiring.
2. Inspecting Wires and Connections
- Closely examine the thermistor’s wires for any damage. Look for cracking, fraying, exposed wire, burn marks, or other deterioration. Damaged wires can cause an open circuit.
- Follow the thermistor wires through the dryer’s interior to where they connect to the main control board. The control board is the “brains” of the appliance and controls all functions.
- Check that the wire connections to the control board are snug and secure. Give them a gentle tug to see if they are loose. Loose connections can definitely cause the E71 error code to appear.
- Also, inspect the nearby wiring in the dryer for any damage. An issue anywhere in the electrical system can potentially disrupt the thermistor circuit and throw the E71 code.
Loose, damaged, or unsecured wires are the most common cause of a faulty thermistor circuit and the resulting E71 error code.
3. Testing the Thermistor with a Multimeter
The final troubleshooting step is to test the thermistor itself:
- Set your digital multimeter to test resistance, displayed in Ohms (symbol Ω). Consult the multimeter’s manual for how to do this.
- Touch the multimeter’s two probes to the thermistor’s wire terminals. This allows you to measure resistance through the thermistor.
- Check the multimeter reading. At room temperature, resistance through the thermistor should be between 4.9kΩ to 6.2kΩ (or 4,900 to 6,200 Ohms).
- If the resistance reading is way outside this range, the thermistor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. This is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward repair.
- If the resistance is in the proper range, and wiring/connections check out okay, the control board may actually be the culprit instead. Replacing the board could be needed.
Carefully testing the thermistor resistance with a digital multimeter isolates whether the thermistor itself is bad or if the issue lies with the wiring or control board. This saves time and money by pinpointing what part actually needs replacement to fix your E71 error for good.
Conclusion
If you’ve been struggling with a frustrating E71 error on your Frigidaire dryer, I hope this guide gave you a clear roadmap to fix the problem once and for all. While appliance issues can feel overwhelming, a little education and troubleshooting go a long way.
Let’s quickly recap the key steps:
- Understanding what the E71 code means – a problem with the outlet thermistor sensor
- Gathering the right tools and supplies for appliance testing and repairs
- Following safety precautions like unplugging the dryer and wearing gloves
- Locating the thermistor inside your dryer model
- Inspecting the thermistor wiring for damage and loose connections
- Using a multimeter to test the thermistor resistance
- Identifying if the thermistor itself is bad or if the issue lies with the wiring or control board
- Replacing any damaged parts
With some patience and the proper testing, you can often fix an E71 error yourself and save the cost of a service call. Doesn’t it feel good to tackle repairs yourself?