Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Unplug the dryer before inspecting any internal components.
- Attempt a power reset: leave the dryer unplugged for 2 minutes, then plug back in and start a test cycle.
- If E1 clears after the reset, it was a transient glitch — monitor for recurrence.
- If E1 returns, the thermistor or its wiring requires inspection. The exhaust thermistor is typically located on the exhaust duct near the rear of the drum.
- Check the wiring connector at the thermistor for looseness or corrosion — reseat the connector firmly.
- If the connector is secure and E1 persists, the thermistor or control board has failed — call a technician.
If the warning comes back after restart
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
- E1 returns after a power reset and the wiring connector is confirmed seated
What This Error Means
Error E1 on your Frigidaire dryer means: The dryer's exhaust temperature thermistor reported a temperature below 18°F (−8°C), which is outside the physically possible operating range. The control board has flagged the reading as a sensor failure rather than an actual temperature condition. Drying is suspended until the sensor circuit is verified. The dryer's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and halted the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is failed exhaust thermistor — the sensor has developed an open circuit, reporting a falsely low temperature. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most Frigidaire dryer errors can be resolved without a service call.
Many cases of E1 can be resolved by the homeowner. The steps below cover the full DIY checks — if they do not resolve the error, a technician is needed.
Temperature sensor faults prevent the dryer from controlling heat accurately. A power reset clears transient faults. If the code returns, the sensor or its wiring requires replacement — the dryer should not be used for temperature-sensitive fabrics while a sensor fault is active.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Frigidaire dryer may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Failed exhaust thermistor — the sensor has developed an open circuit, reporting a falsely low temperature
Check first: SAFETY: Unplug the dryer before inspecting any internal components.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Loose or disconnected wiring harness connector at the thermistor
Check first: Attempt a power reset: leave the dryer unplugged for 2 minutes, then plug back in and start a test cycle.
Common Causes
- Failed exhaust thermistor — the sensor has developed an open circuit, reporting a falsely low temperature
- Loose or disconnected wiring harness connector at the thermistor
- Damaged wiring between the thermistor and the control board
- Control board input circuit fault causing an incorrect sensor reading
What Not to Do
- Do not run the dryer with a known faulty temperature sensor — the dryer cannot control heat safely without accurate temperature feedback
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Frigidaire dryer 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
- Exhaust thermistor/temperature sensor ($15–$35)
- Wiring harness if damaged ($15–$30)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Frigidaire dryer parts.
Service option
Frigidaire service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
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
E1 returns after a power reset and the wiring connector is confirmed seated
- No heat is produced but E1 also appears — possible combined sensor and heater fault
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Keep the exhaust vent system clean — a restricted vent causes the thermistor to work in extreme temperature swings that accelerate sensor wear.
Related Error Codes
E2
The dryer's exhaust temperature thermistor reported a temperature above 250°F (121°C), which is beyond the normal operating ceiling. The control board treats this as a sensor failure (short circuit in the thermistor) rather than an actual temperature reading. Drying is suspended to prevent the dryer from running blind on temperature control.
E5B
The control board commanded the heating element to turn on but the temperature sensor did not register an increase in temperature within the expected time. The dryer is tumbling but producing no heat — clothes will not dry.
E64
The control board detected an open circuit in the heating element — either the element wire has broken, the element coil has burned through, or a wiring connection to the element has come loose. No heat will be produced while E64 is active.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Frigidaire 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 Frigidaire support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Frigidaire US Official Support
Model coverage note: Frigidaire dryer 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.