Opening the dishwasher after a wash cycle only to find all your dishes still soaking wet is a frustrating experience. This often indicates an F31 error code on LG dishwashers, meaning there is an issue with the heated dry fan. Before calling for service, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially fix the problem yourself. This includes inspecting the fan motor, checking the thermistor and heater connections, examining the wiring, and testing the control board. With some basic tools and safety precautions, you may be able to resolve the F31 error on your LG dishwasher and get your dishes drying properly again.
Causes of the F31 error code
The F31 error code on an LG dishwasher means there is an issue with the heated air dry fan. This fan is important for removing moisture from dishes after the wash cycle is done. Let’s take a closer look at why problems might occur.
Issues with the heated air dry fan motor
The heated air dry fan motor is responsible for blowing hot air through the dishwasher during the drying part of the cycle. This helps evaporate moisture from washed dishes, so they are dry when the cycle ends.
If the fan motor is having problems, it might not spin as fast as it should. Or it might make strange noises when it runs. Maybe it doesn’t turn on at all! This would cause the dishes to stay wet instead of drying properly.
Some common issues with fan motors include:
- Broken or worn-out motor parts inside
- Loose connections that don’t power the motor well
- Dust and grime buildup that prevents smooth spinning
Does this help explain why an unhealthy fan motor could display the F31 error? Let me know if you need any clarification on these motor issues.
Function of the heated air dry fan in the drying cycle
During the drying part of the cycle, hot air from the dishwasher heating element is blown across the dishes by the fan. The spinning hot air evaporates water quickly, so everything is dry by the end.
If the fan doesn’t work or spin slowly, hot air won’t circulate as it needs to. Dishes would take much longer to dry or may stay wet. The dishwasher detects this issue and stops with an F31 error code.
Safety Precautions
Now that we know what may cause the F31 error, it’s important to troubleshoot safely. Working inside an appliance involves risks if we’re not careful. Let’s review some tips:
Powering off and unplugging the appliance
The first step is always to turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the outlet. How else can we work on it without the risk of electric shocks? Always double check it’s unplugged before touching any internal parts.
Working safely and preventing accidents
When fixing appliances, it’s easy to get hurt if we’re not watching our work areas. Make sure yours is clean, well-lit, and clutter-free so nothing can trip you up. Also, wear safety gear like work gloves – you’ll thank yourself if you slip and grab a sharp edge!
Maintaining a clean and well-lit workspace
Good lighting lets you see clearly inside cramped appliance areas. Keep yours dusted weekly so you don’t inhale harmful particles while fixing things. Don’t let hazards build up where you work.
Handling internal parts with care
Inside appliances have small pieces that can be cut. Carefully remove parts, keeping fingers away from sharp edges. Don’t force stubborn screws either – you may break something. Go slowly and steady wins the race!
Referring to the user manual for specific instructions
Your dishwasher manual knows its own insides best. Always check it first before doing repairs for proper steps. Following directions closely helps avoid mistakes or breaking things, doesn’t it?
Wearing protective gear
At a minimum, wear sturdy shoes/boots to protect your toes. However, gloves, safety glasses, and even dust masks are good for extra protection. Why take chances on nasty cuts or breathing yucky air?
Tools Needed
Some basic tools are required to properly troubleshoot the F31 error. Let’s look at the essential gear:
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat head)
Many dishwasher panels and parts are held in place with screws. Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers allow us to easily access the internals. Make sure to have different sizes, too, for larger and smaller screws.
Multimeter with needle probes
A multimeter tests electrical components like motors and connections. Needle probes help access tight appliance spaces. This tool helps locate faulty wiring or parts that are not getting power.
Socket set and Allen wrench set
Some bolts need socket wrenches, while Allen wrenches services thin hex screws. A variety of sizes lets you remove nearly any bolt safely without strips or breaks.
Torx drivers (T10/T15/T20)
Not all screws are Phillips! Torx screws require the correct Torx bit size. Don’t guess sizes – check your manual so you don’t skip important steps.
Pliers, flashlight, work gloves, and cleaning rags
Pliers help grip small parts for removal. A flashlight illuminates dark areas better than relying on room lights. Work gloves and rags keep our hands clean while fixing.
Troubleshooting Steps
With safety and tools covered, let’s dive into fixing the issue. Troubleshooting has five basic steps:
Step 1 – Check the fan motor
The drying fan motor must work properly to allow the dishes to dry fully. Let’s test it:
- Locate the fan motor inside the dishwasher, usually at the bottom near the rear.
- Inspect for dust buildup, loose parts, or damage that may cause issues.
- Use a multimeter set to ohms to test motor wire connections for power and continuity.
- If tests show the motor is faulty, replace it with a new matching part.
Does checking the motor help solve the F31 error code? Let’s proceed to the next step.
Step 2 – Check the thermistor and heater connections
These monitor and supply heat for drying. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove any blocking panels to safely access internal parts.
- Look for the thermistor and heating element, commonly in the lower rear.
- Check that the wire connections are tight without corrosion, preventing good power flow.
Fix any loose or corroded connections found in step two before moving forward.
Step 3 – Check the wiring
Inspect all wiring for damage like cracks, abrasions, or loose connections:
- Look for worn insulation hiding broken wires inside appliance walls.
- Tighten any loose wire connections found along the way.
- Use a multimeter to test each individual wire for continuity.
- Replace entire wiring harnesses as needed when major issues are found.
Step 4 – Check and/or replace the control board
If problems persist after the first three steps:
- Push any reset buttons usually found on the front control board.
- Carefully locate the control board, usually near the user controls.
- Check for burn marks, cracks, or corrosion indicating faulty board.
- Test incoming power to the board to ensure it is within safe limits using a multimeter.
- Replace the entire board if tests or visual inspections show faults.
Step 5 – Run a test cycle
Being thorough means rechecking after parts changes:
- Turn the dishwasher back on after repairs or part swaps.
- Run a short empty cycle to test without dishes.
- If the F31 error returns, re-troubleshoot from Step 1.
- If the dishwasher runs and dries fully, the problem is solved!
Conclusion
Now that we’ve gone through troubleshooting the F31 error code step-by-step let’s summarize a few key points:
Resolving the F31 error code
By carefully checking the drying fan motor, wiring connections, thermistor/heater, and control board – we can isolate what is causing the issue. Replacing worn parts is often the solution. Did troubleshooting help solve your F31 error in the end?
Importance of following safety precautions and troubleshooting steps
Working on appliances means risks if we skip important safety tips. Things like unplugging the machine first and wearing proper gear keep us safe. Methodically checking components also prevents guesswork that could damage appliances.
Always refer back to manuals for any models you work on. Proper repair sequences were designed with safety in mind. Following instructions closely avoids potential mistakes too.