Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Code i20 — Drain Issue
What this means
The i20 error code on Frigidaire dishwashers indicates a drain failure — water is not being pumped out of the tub. Related codes i40 and iF0 also indicate drain-related issues (clogged filter or restricted drain line). Standing water in the bottom of the tub after a cycle is the primary symptom. Common causes include a clogged drain filter, a blocked drain hose, or a failed drain pump motor.
Alternate codes: i40, iF0
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsClean the drain filter
Remove the lower rack. Locate the cylindrical filter at the bottom center of the tub. Twist and lift it out. Remove the flat fine-mesh filter beneath it. Rinse both filters under running water, scrubbing with a soft brush to remove food debris and grease.
Frigidaire recommends cleaning the filter after every 30 cycles for optimal performance.
Check the drain hose
Pull the dishwasher out from the cabinet slightly. Inspect the drain hose running from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. Look for kinks, clogs, or crushed sections.
Disconnect the hose from the disposal/drain and blow through it — if air won't pass, the hose is clogged.
Check the garbage disposal connection
If the drain hose connects to a garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear any food buildup. Also verify the knockout plug inside the disposal inlet was removed during dishwasher installation.
A forgotten knockout plug is one of the most common causes of brand-new dishwasher drain failures.
Test the drain pump
If the filter and hose are clear, the drain pump motor may have failed. Listen for the pump during a drain cycle — silence means the motor has died. Access the pump from underneath and test for continuity with a multimeter.
The drain pump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher sump — you'll need to lay the dishwasher on its back or side to access it.
When to call a professional
Drain pump replacement requires removing the dishwasher from the cabinet and working underneath. A professional can complete this in under an hour.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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