The Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code UO indicates to the “VENT OPEN” Error. You will get this error during the wash cycle when the main control board is not able to get a signal from the Vent assembly. So, the control panel is not able to determine whether Vent Plunger is closed or not. There is an optical sensor that detects the plunger open/closed status. If there is any faulty wiring between the mainboard and the vent assembly, then you can get this error. You may also have to check the Vent assembly and the optical sensor.
How To Fix Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code UO
Many new and old Frigidaire dishwasher has features to protect the equipment from any kind of malfunctions. You can see the error code in the display panel that will tell you what type of problem dishwasher is facing.
Usually, when you get the UO error, you can hear the water filling into the water tank, and then you hear 4-5 click sounds. After this, the UO error is shown on the dishwasher display. You will press the Cancel button, and the water will drain out, but when you start the wash cycle again, you will get the error back. It can be very frustrating sometimes, but if you know the cause, you will know the solution.
Reset the UO Error code
There is a wax motor that helps in operating the subunit. When it gets the signal from the control panel, it pushes the plunger that, in turn, blocks the Vent hole. Please note that the Vent hole should remain closed at the beginning of the wash cycle. It helps in stopping any steam that may leaks out from the dishwasher. The Vent will only open when the program is in the drying mode. A fan will blow out all the moisture from the dishes and hence making the dishes clean and dry.
Many times, there can be a fault in the dishwasher’s component that will send the wrong signal to the control panel. Sometimes these errors are temporary, and you can quickly fix it by turning ON and OFF the Frigidaire Dishwasher. Let’s see the steps on how to do it.
- Switch OFF the dishwasher.
- Wait for 15-20 minutes.
- Restart the dishwasher.
If the problem is temporary, then you will see the error will go away. If there is any fault in components, then you have to follow the below steps.
Faulty Wire Harness
You need to check the wiring connection from the motor fan to the control panel. Normally this wiring will be at the bottom of the dishwasher. Check if you see any visible signs of burnt or broken wire. We suggest you take a multimeter and do the electrical continuity test. If you see any rust around the terminals, then it is a good indication that wire is faulty, and you need to replace it. A defective wire harness will stop the electric signal flow, and hence the control panel will not know about the status of the ventilation hole. It will result in the Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code UO.
We suggest you clean the rusty terminal using a wire brush and apply a dielectric grease on it. Many times it will solve the issue.
You can use a screwdriver and tighten all the connections. You can also take a soldering machine to connect the broken wire. If the wiring harness is fully damaged, then it is better to replace it as you cannot repair all the cables. Take the help of a qualified electrician while doing this step.
Check the Valve and Sensor
The official recommendation is to replace the whole Vent assembly, but before you do it, we suggest you check the Valve and sensors as well. If you are using hard water to wash the dishes, then there is a chance that there may be excess lime build up in the valve. It can cause the UO error. So, clean the valve and remove any lime or soap residue that is stuck in it. Let’s see how you can do it.
- Switch OFF the Frigidaire dishwasher.
- Disconnect the main water supply.
- Remove the bottom panel.
- Remove the screws in the fixing ring.
- Now you need to turn over the vent and pump fan.
- Remove the vent cover using a screwdriver.
- You can now see the rubber valve.
- Remove it by disconnecting the wires with the help of a plier.
- Clean the Valve under running water and ensure all debris is removed.
- Carefully place all the components back into the dishwasher.
Many times it will fix the issue. If the issue still persists, then you may have to check the optical sensor. The primary function of the optical sensor is to tell the correct position of the water sprayer. You can find the sensor at the back of the water valve.
Remove the sensor and clean it by using a brush (typically made of nylon) and a disinfectant solution. Hopefully, this will solve the UO error code.
Check the Vent Unit
If there is a fault in the Vent Unit, the Frigidaire will repair it for absolutely no cost if your dishwasher is under warranty. According to Frigidaire, any faulty Ventilation unit should be replaced to fix the Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code UO. But it may not solve the problem all the time as there can be other reasons for fault as well.
Many users suggest that if your dishwasher is not under warranty and you want to save the money, then check the vent unit yourself to solve the problem. So, for doing that you should follow the below instructions.
- Ensure that the Vent Hole is closed at the beginning of the wash cycle.
- Check the sensor and circuit board and ensure that they are in good condition.
- If required install the new sensor.
If you have to replace the ventilation unit, then we recommend taking the help of an expert technician. You can also all the Frigidaire and they can assist you with it.
You need to also check the wax motor and see if it is working properly or not. If the wax motor is faulty, then it will not be able to close or open the plunger’s slider. You cannot repair the wax motor and hence it is better to replace it with the new one. You can inquire about the cost of it on amazon or any repair shop near you.
We hope that we are able to solve your problem. We have also given the solution for Frigidaire Error Code on our website. Please check it out as well.