Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Turn off power at the circuit breaker before reaching into the sump.
- Pull out the lower dish rack to expose the filter assembly in the center of the tub floor.
- Turn the cylindrical fine-mesh filter counterclockwise about a quarter turn and lift it straight up.
- Lift out the flat glass trap (coarse filter) that sits beneath it.
- Rinse both parts under hot running water. Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub grease and debris from the mesh — do not use abrasive scrubbers that can damage the mesh.
- If mineral deposits are visible, soak the filter parts in white vinegar for 15 minutes, then rinse.
- Inspect the sump opening (the hole below where the filter sits) and remove any debris visible inside.
- Replace the glass trap first, then insert the cylindrical filter and twist it clockwise until it locks.
- Restore power and run a short cycle to confirm the error is cleared.
If it's still not draining
- If the drain path looks clear but the code returns, the issue is more likely in the pump path or another less accessible restriction.
- If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
What This Error Means
Error i40 on your Electrolux dishwasher means: The dishwasher has detected restricted water flow through the sump or filter assembly. The glass trap and cylindrical filter at the bottom of the tub are blocked with food debris, grease, or mineral deposits, preventing normal wash circulation. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused operation.
The most frequent cause is food debris and grease coating the cylindrical filter and the flat glass trap beneath it. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most Electrolux dishwasher errors are resolved without a service call.
Error i40 is DIY-safe. No special tools are required and the fix typically takes under 30 minutes. Follow all steps in sequence.
Regular filter maintenance is the single most effective way to prevent wash and drain errors on Electrolux dishwashers. The cylindrical fine-mesh filter and the flat glass trap beneath it should be cleaned at least once a month under a running tap.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Electrolux dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Food debris and grease coating the cylindrical filter and the flat glass trap beneath it
Check first: SAFETY: Turn off power at the circuit breaker before reaching into the sump.
Water may remain inside the appliance instead of clearing normally.
Likely cause: Hard water mineral deposits forming a crust on the filter mesh that reduces flow
Check first: Pull out the lower dish rack to expose the filter assembly in the center of the tub floor.
Performance may drop because airflow, filtering, or draining is restricted.
Likely cause: Broken glass or fine debris lodged in the sump below the filter assembly
Check first: Turn the cylindrical fine-mesh filter counterclockwise about a quarter turn and lift it straight up.
Common Causes
- Food debris and grease coating the cylindrical filter and the flat glass trap beneath it
- Hard water mineral deposits forming a crust on the filter mesh that reduces flow
- Broken glass or fine debris lodged in the sump below the filter assembly
- Filter not locked correctly after a previous cleaning, allowing debris to bypass and re-clog the sump
What Not to Do
- Do not use abrasive pads or stiff wire brushes on the filter mesh — the fine mesh tears easily and a torn filter allows debris into the pump
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Electrolux dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Filter assembly if the mesh is torn or warped ($15–$35)
- Circulation pump if impeller is blocked or damaged ($60–$130)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Electrolux dishwasher parts.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
i40 returns immediately after a thorough filter cleaning
- The filter mesh is torn or the glass trap is cracked — a damaged filter allows debris into the pump and circulation system
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Clean the filter and glass trap once a month — pre-rinsing dishes is not required, but scraping large food pieces off plates before loading significantly reduces filter clogging
Related Error Codes
Extra notes
- This page is based on Electrolux support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-09
Based on: Based on Electrolux support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Electrolux US Official Support
Model coverage note: Electrolux dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.