One great thing about the Frigidaire dishwasher is that it shows error codes right on the display panel to make it easier for you to troubleshoot and fix different issues.
If you happen to see a UO error code on your Frigidaire dishwasher panel, then it means there is a problem with the vent.
Dealing with a vent issue can be frustrating for you. However, there is no need to worry. In this article, you will learn what the UO error code means and the right troubleshooting tips to get your dishwasher running smoothly again.
What does UO mean on the Frigidaire dishwasher?
The UO error code on a Frigidaire dishwasher means that the vent is open. The vent and fan are located at the back of the dishwasher tub in the top right corner. Their role is to dry the dishes at the end of the cycle. Therefore, if the dishwasher detects that the vent is open, it won’t start the cycle.
Normally, you will see water filling in the water tank, followed by four or five click sounds. After that, the UO error code displays on the LED display. When you press the Cancel button, water will drain out of the dishwasher, but the error persists.
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Troubleshooting the UO error code
Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix issues with the vent on a Frigidaire dishwasher.
1. Restart the dishwasher
Restarting the dishwasher is the simplest way of clearing error codes. The UO error code may be a false signal emitted by the control board because of a system glitch and a restart is all you need to fix it.
To restart your dishwasher, unplug it from the power supply and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before plugging it back.
Once it has rebooted, check where the error code has cleared from the LED display. For accuracy, perform a diagnostic test by simultaneously pressing the Air Dry and Start buttons for three seconds. If not, the internal parts such as the wiring, vent, and cap are faulty and require to be cleaned or replaced.
2. Check the wiring and connections
Frigidaire manufacturers advise that you start by checking the wiring and connections between the vent assembly and the main control board.
If they are in good condition, the vent may be faulty and require replacement. If this method, however, does not clear the error code, you should replace the control board.
3. Tighten the metal cap
The vent is a metal cylinder at the top right corner of the sink. If it is faulty, it stops the cycle and needs replacement. First, detach the metal cap and ensure that the internal plastic cap is screwed on.
If it’s not or the vent has no cap, screw the metal cap in place. You can find a metal cap at the hardware store. Make sure to buy one that is compatible with the model of your dishwasher.
Next, replace the inner and outer cap to close the vent and clear the error code. If the error code is still showing, the vent is faulty and needs to be checked.
4. Clean the vent
Another effective way of fixing the error code on the Frigidaire dishwasher is by cleaning the vent. This is because vents may clog and fail over time.
You should start by removing the outer and inner caps of the vent. The next step is to place a siphon on the vent’s opening. You can also use a paper towel tube because it easily fits in the dishwasher vent opening.
Blow into one end of the siphon or paper towel tube to clear out any food or gunk that has blocked the vent. Alternatively, you can clean the vent using your fingers.
Replace the metal cap and switch on the dishwasher to see whether it runs smoothly and the error code clears off the display. If not, repeat the process above to clean the remaining junk in the vent.
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5. Faulty valve and sensor
If the vent and wiring are in a good condition and the error code is still displaying on the LED display, you should check the valve and sensor. First, clean the limescale and soap residue that may have built up inside the valve and sensor using hard water.
Below are steps on how to do it:
- Turn off the Frigidaire dishwasher and unplug it from the power supply.
- Detach the bottom panel and unscrew the screws holding the fixing ring.
- Turn over the vent and pump fan assembly.
- Take off the vent cover using a screwdriver to reveal the rubber valve.
- Disconnect the wires using a plier to remove them.
- Run the valve under running water to remove the residue or wipe it with a paper towel or microfiber cloth.
- Finally, reconnect all the components in the dishwasher and reboot it.
This method fixes the UO error code most of the time. If it does not, you should check the optical sensor. Its function is to tell the correct position of the water sprayer or plunger.
The sensor is located on a flat plate at the back of the valve. Remove the residue clogging it using a nylon brush and lens solution. Hopefully, this will clear the UO error code.
6. Replace the control board
If the UO error code persists, the main control board is faulty and needs to be replaced. You should contact a professional technician to diagnose the control board and replace it with a functioning one. It is an important element in a Frigidaire dishwasher and if faulty, the dishwasher will not work.
Restored Frigidaire dishwasher
The UO error code on a Frigidaire dishwasher means that the vent is open, preventing dishes from drying after the cycle. There are several reasons behind it, including a system glitch, loose meta cap, clogged vent, valve, and sensor.
The above troubleshooting tips will solve these problems and clear the error code. If, however, it persists, contact a professional technician or Frigidaire customer service to help you and fix your dishwasher back to normal.