I keep getting an FO code. I've cleaned the filter several times and the machine still won't run. The reset filter button doesn't seem to work. What does this code mean? What needs to be done to get the machine to work again? null

Question

Brando · Accepted Answer

I contacted Fridgidaire today via the live chat on their website regarding my dehumidifier that was displaying this error code. It was purchased in 7/2018 and is now 12/2019, so I thought that the 1-year warranty was expired and that they would not be able to do anything. I decided to try anyways, and they stated that this issue is a part of the unit's sealed system, which is actually covered for 5 years! I have to send them a few photos and some additional information, but they will be sending me a replacement unit. I recommend trying this before modifying any of the sensors or wiring internally on your own. (I'm a low voltage electronics tech, so that would have been my next step.. Contact them first!)

Answered by Brando 5 years ago

ASAP · Answer

It means that the sensor is going bad or went bad. Its about $20 ebay part or less and its located at the rear uper left side ( on filter screen cut out) I just refused to spend any money on this thing that lasted 2years. I just removed the sensor, cut the 4 wires and connected the brown and blue wires together to by pass the sensor and it works now.

Answered by ASAP 5 years ago

Jah357 · Answer

Like you, I have been getting the FO code on the display. After unplugging and plugging the unit back in again, it works for a brief period of time then it shuts off with the FO displayed. After reading many with the same issue and some stay to bypass the filter sensor which is located top left in the back of the dehumidifier behind the removable filter, I though how can a sealed sensor go bad and it could be that it is simply dirty like the filter and is clogged. So, I used a toothbrush with alcohol or hand sanitizer and clean the small grooves of the sensor front. So far, It’s now working over 48 hours without failing. So you may want to try this as it is the simplest/easiest way instead of opening the unit, cutting wires and disabling the sensor all together. Plus anyone can do this with out having tools.

Answered by Jah357 5 years ago

Skiptownes · Answer

I got the sensor out but there are 4 wires - red, blue, brown and orange. Which ones should be connected?

Santhosh · Answer

Whoever is getting this error, please contact Frigidaire rep (I chatted with a rep) and provide the serial number. Looks like, in my case and for my serail#, the issue was with the sealed system and this is covered under warranty and they are sending me a new unit.
I just have to provide them with the serial# and couple of other required information.

So, I request you to first contact the rep before fiddling around with censor etc.,

Thanks.

Fixit · Answer

Removed the sensor behind the filter (upper left corner) using a knife and hacksaw blade to cut out the sensor from the mount. Careful not to cut the wires covered in black plastic shrinkwrap on the left side.Cut the sensor from the attached wires. Stripped the black cover off. Connected the blue and brown wires together. Works great!

Answered by Fixit 5 years ago

Wapia · Answer

Please do not bypass the sensor because it is a serious risk of fire . Call your fire department and they will tell you that dehumidifiers are a great source of home fire !

RedBeard · Answer

Fridgidaire does replace units with the F0 error code, I believe for up to 5yrs from purchase. Its not easy to do, must have the receipt and they may accept one reprinted from the purchase site. I have received a replacement unit.

Answered by RedBeard 5 years ago

Notatechguy · Answer

Don't know the full or technical answer, but for me I tried some things that didn't work, then tried: unplugged unit, cleaned filter, took filter off the back and blew air at what may be the sensor (upper left as others have said), plugged back in, and it works now.

Answered by Notatechguy 5 years ago

Windbike · Answer

I had same problem and issues getting through to Frigidaire. I have HVAC background and specialized tools. Problem is that coils are not getting cold because there is NO refrigerant in system. The compressor runs for awhile, but needs the circulating refrigerant to cool the built in motor. The motor gets very hot and has a built in thermal shut off. I presume that the compressor will cycle on and off (fan motor stays on so it is hard to tell when compressor actually runs or stops without measuring compressor current with an amp-probe) and after so many on and offs the unit turns off and throws an F0 code. I opened the system, there was virtually NO refrigerant left in the system. I added a connection for refrigerant hoses (something the average person cannot do), pressure tested to 100 psi nitrogen with no noticeable leakage. I used a vacuum pump to 600 microns vacuum that appeared to hold (1/2 hour). I recharged 5.6 oz of R410A refrigerant as the label on side of unit notes (0.16 kg). Unit operates, compressor stays warm (not hot to touch), and coils get cold and dehumidifier removes moisture (coils wet). I also emailed Frigidaire before just doing it myself. Will see if any response. I cannot explain the lose of refrigerant. It is possible that they include a sealant with the initial charge that seals any small leaks. This error occurred after unit was sitting over winter without use and without circulating refrigerant. There was some oil on the suction line at the lowest point. This is an indication of refrigerant leakage since motor oil circulates with the gas, but I checked the area nearby and found no refrigerant leakage with a tester. It is doubtful that you can achieve 600 microns vacuum with any leak.

Answered by Windbike 4 years ago

KTA555 · Answer

Thanks to others who answered this question, I contacted Frigidaire thru their website. The dehumidifier I purchased was less than 3 years old, but the "F0" error is apparently covered by a 5-year warranty. They will ship me a replacement unit once I submit the paperwork which they emailed to me after I called them. You will need to have a copy of your purchase receipt, and the serial number and model number of the unit. I'm glad I didn't have to try messing with the sensor, as other people suggested. This response is for Frigidaire Model FFAD5033R1, 50-pint dehumidifier, purchased August 2017.

Scout · Answer

I have two of these units, that have been just over two years and both units stopped working about the same time. I bought fridiaire as both of my previous units, different brand, stopped working within five years. I have two beat up units, GE, in the basement, that run all year and have been working for over twenty years, with one unit just starting to have ice problem on coils. It seems the newer the units are, the bigger piece of crap they prodice.

Answer

What it means that the sensor is going bad. I just removed the sensor, dropped a spot of solder on brown and blue wires at the back of the board to by-pass the sensor and it works now.

tb02 · Answer

Since unplugging and replugging the dehumidifier resets the code, (and since Frigidaire is using COVID as an excuse to shut down their customer service lines), I found a temporary solution to the problem. I programmed a smart plug to turn the dehumidifier off for a couple of minutes every 2 hours. This has worked like a charm for the last couple of weeks, and I just emptied a full bucket this morning. If you have a smart plug lying around, give it a try!

kickdrum59 · Answer

Based on a previous answer I contacted Fridgidaire via their website and used the Live Chat. We are just under three years from date of purchase. We have a 50 qt model. I told them I was getting an F0 code and had unplugged the machine several times only to have it throw the code again after running for a few minutes. They sent me an e-mail with instructions for submitting a claim and they will send a new unit. Sweet!

Geno · Answer

I removed the rear cover, and then the small cover over the sensor. I took out the sensor’s retaining screw and then used canned air to blow out the sensor. Put everything back together and it seems to be running for now. I was disappointed to see that one of the condenser coils sides were rusting badly. You would think that something other than steel would be used in that type of situation.

dwboston · Answer

As a number of buyers have said, the FO error code is signs that the sensor is defective and Frigidaire will send you a new unit if you follow all of their instructions after you call them and get an authorization email. You'll need to cut the cord of the unit and send them a photo that you did, plus a photo of the FO error code, plus your original receipt, plus the form they sent. You'll have to wait with music on hold for close to an hour to finally get a customer rep, but once you do, they will authorize a replacement. I bought mine in 2018 so it's well out of the standard one year warranty, but this problem seems to be chronic with these units, so they are used to getting these calls.

Bonnie · Answer

Hi there - still true in 6/2020 - called about the FO code - and they are going to replace.

mcditta · Answer

I had the FO code on my dehumidifier and contacted Frigidaire on August 31, 2020 - the new dehumidifier came on Sept. 3, 2020.

disappointed · Answer

I have the same F0 problem with the dehumidifier less than 2 yrs old. I have sent two emails to Fridigaire, and haven't heard back, the online chat doesn't work for me and when I finally got through on the phone, they said they can't do anything without a receipt: why would I keep the receipt from over a year ago.

Very disappointed with the company and their service, others here have gotten a new one, but maybe they had the receipt.

ElizabethIV · Answer

This worked for me! You just need a Phillips head screwdriver, steel wool or an old scrubber sponge, and about ten minutes. https://youtu.be/tnwwBi1u-eA

DennisM · Answer

I contacted Frigidaire service as well. (Electrolux actually). I gave my model and serial number and they said the F0 code is covered under the sealed system for 5 years. They are sending me a brand new unit within 10-12 days! Thanks for the heads up on this site or I would have just tossed it and bought a new one.

Ronnie · Answer

I emailed the company. It took awhile before they answered and a couple of follow ups, but they did replace it. I received it today. I bought it in 2018 and it failed two years later

Totoro68 · Answer

I did what another person suggested. I cleaned the filter and dried it. I then took a vinyl brush with some rubbing alcohol and lightly scrubbed the sensor. I then wiped it down with a soft tissue. I unplugged the unit while cleaning the sensor. I put the filter back on and plugged it in. It started right up. If it fails again I will post that result if not this appears to have done the trick. Thank you for all the comments.

JMB1676 · Answer

My Frigidaire dehumidifier is just shy of 2 years old and I've been getting that error code (FO) for three days now. When I unplug it and plug it back in it will run for 1 to 2 hours then it stops again and displays that code. During this run time it collects no moisture in the tank. Today I called Electrolux and explained the situation. After providing the model and serial number I was told they are going to replace the unit with a dehumidifier of equal or greater value.

HawkeyeZeroOne · Answer

It is a piece of crap!!!!!!! I tried to get to a "solution" to the problem but it appears you have to completely disassemble the unit to get to that sensor. Filter cover shows no sensor in left corner.
Has not even been used a full 12 months!!!

Lisa · Answer

I too was getting the FO code on my Frigidaire 70 pint dehumidifier, Model No. FFAD7033R1, purchased from Home Depot. I unplugged and plugged it in multiple times, with no change in the FO code status. After reading another person's response that theirs was replaced under warranty, I live chatted with Frigidaire. Ends up the FO code error was covered under the sealed system warranty, which is 5 years. As my dehumidifier was only 3 years old, they are sending me a new one. Thanks for the info and advice!

Flyer · Answer

I too have the FO code on a 2 year old unit , I contacted Fridgidaire and they replaced my unit for free. There is a youtube video online that shows exactly how to do it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IjvB8XuXh4

Vermont52 · Answer

I'm so glad you asked this question. This thread came up when I searched the internet about the F0 code. Reading through the replies prompted me to call about our F0 error code. After being on hold for about 35 minutes and then answering a few questions (I had all the info I needed at hand), they are shipping a new one.

SmallBeginnings · Answer

Kept getting FO code and our filter is spotless.  
Clean the sensor in the top right corner with copious amounts of rubbing alcohol, a tiny brush, or toothbrush and toothpick.   Blow the alcohol out with a can of air or your mouth and blot dry with a towel.  
Ours works perfectly now.   Press the easy button first!
Should look clean like in the picture.

Freeflying · Answer

Mine was under two years old with FO code.  Tried all the suggestions on cleaning and unplugging but nothing worked.  The  company had me submit the claim and they said they will send a visa credit card for the price of the unit less tax (in Canada) but I would have much preferred a new unit.

We have since tried some more radical things like bypassing the sensor and such as suggested here and elsewhere but still just a good looking like new piece of equipment not fit for purpose, such a shame.

Answer

it's the humidity sensor board it should be a 1 inch piece on right top after u take out the filter

Answer

Per others on this thread, I contacted Frigidaire today via phone regarding my dehumidifier that was displaying this error code. It was purchased in 8/2018 and is now 7/2022, they stated that this issue is a part of the unit's sealed system, which is actually covered for 5 years! I have to fill out a form, send them the form along with the serial Tag and a copy of the sales receipt. (they will accept the form via email or certified mail)
They will be sending me a replacement unit.

Answer

What does failure cod fo mean on my Frigidaire dehumidifier?

TechGal · Answer

Wow, not so lucky here with Frigidaire support on the FO error code. Purchased through Four Seasons Trading Company (not BestBuy) on 4/1/2018, used only in 3 or 4 winter months each year and only at night.
I called Frigidaire's customer support and they said it's out of warranty, despite my pointing out that the sensor fits into the tubing, which falls under the 2-5 year limited warranty on "the sealed system( compressor, condensor, evaporator and tubing"). The person kept saying that they could send a technician to my place for something like $150 (I shut that down) to diagnose whether it's repairable or not. I had been receiving out of warranty emails but no product identifier pitching extended warranty.

I'm fine with replacing the sensor myself (although it is indeed a bear to pry off the back cover). They wouldn't even ackowledge the FO error is a known issue and declined to give me a part number. Perhaps I'll try another tact - the online chat. 
Link to photo of model and serial #
https://photos.app.goo.gl/diVJfAB6uNqLWu8s5

Now2 · Answer

The filter sensor in the older unit gets clogged with dust so cleaning the filter does nothing as the sensor is full of dust. I used a spray can of electrical contact cleaner to blow it out and the problem was resolved. (Just search for 'Contact and Circuit Board Cleaner'. There are many available online.)

The newer units have a cover over the sensor that minimizes dust accumulation. As I had the older unit replaced for free a few years ago, NOW I have 2.

mark · Answer

Good luck getting Frigidaire to respond. Will not take email, chat, won't answer phone, and hang up after an hour wait Awful, these units have been recalled and they are obliged to replace them, if you can get them!! Worst service ever, will never buy their products again. They are defective.

Sandi · Answer

My Frigidaire dehumidifier comes up with a code of FO what does this meano

nwohio · Answer

bought one of these a few years ago and in about a year got the ''fo'' code . contacted company and they sent a new one . less than a year and it did the same thing and so i did also . again the company sent a replacement which after eight months is doing the same thing . i really like the product when it works it works really well . i'm to embarrassed to call them again but i'm tired of messing around and think i'll buy a different brand although i'm not happy with what i am reading about any of them . frigidaire's customer service people have always been top notch very pleasant and kind , really nice people . gotta run my dehumidifier needs defrosted, AGAIN . . .peace

Bob75 · Answer

I had same problem with 1-year-old unit. I contacted Frigidaire thru chat. After answering questions and sending documentation they sent me a new unit. I contacted them on 6-25-20, got new unit 7-1-20. Old unit was rated 70 pints, new is rated 50 pints but is same capacity due to change in DOE testing standards. The new unit has 1-year warranty, old was 5 years. The new one should be covered beyond 1 year by the remainder of the 5 year original warranty. It took a while to get thru to them, but once I did they were easy to deal with and stood behind the warranty. It's refreshing that a company would be so responsive to warranty claims.

Ducky · Answer

I see where other people got their unit replaced, but I'm not getting any response from Frigidaire. I waited on phone until I gave up. The chat button on the website didn't work. And they don't respond to e-mail. I'll avoid this brand.

BaltimoreSteve · Answer

I unplugged the machine and vacuumed out the sensor (upper left). It's been running so far.

KenM · Answer

Thanks! This thread was very helpful. Also had a 70qt unit "go F0". On advice on this thread, contacted Support and am being issued a replacement of a 2 year old unit as of 7/6/20.

MMMM · Answer

I have exactly the same experience as this person had except mine just used for one summer last year. I repeat his complaint again. Frigidaire really needs to do better customer service! Otherwise, this brand won't last long.

I did what another person suggested. I cleaned the filter and dried it. I then took a vinyl brush with some rubbing alcohol and lightly scrubbed the sensor. I then wiped it down with a soft tissue. I unplugged the unit while cleaning the sensor. I put the filter back on and plugged it in. It started right up. If it fails again I will post that result if not this appears to have done the trick. Thank you for all the comments.

KTA555 · Answer

Thanks to this website, I contacted Frigidaire about the F0 error code. Yes, this is a compressor failure which is covered for up to 5 years (longer than the regular 1-year warranty). Due to the heavy call volume during COVID-19, it was difficult to get an answer, and "chat" did not work. But eventually after sending an email, as well as calling several times and stepping thru the phone tree, I was able to speak to a person. They sent me an email with the instructions on how to claim a warranty replacement. The new dehumidifier showed up within a week. Be aware that the newer models have less capacity, and a 50-pint has been downsized to a 35-pint model. Hopefully this will do the job for my basement. As I was concerned about this switch, I emailed the shipper, and received a very prompt reply explaining the reason for the substitution. See attached explanation. So I went from being initially very annoyed with Frigidaire to satisfied with their service, and would buy their products again.

Reenie · Answer

Thanks for the warranty info BUT
Frigidaire is sending me a prepaid card, as they don’t have 50 pint in stock.
Store said COVID delayed production, and I just got the new model off the truck on 6/5/20..not as powerful, and only a 1 year warranty, so the 5 years sealed warranty is gone, and I will be back to replacing every 3 years.
FYI, I had to cut the cord and send pic to Frigidaire to prove machine useless. 
I wish I attempted to repair/remove sensor myself.
I am going to return new model IF the older 70 pint model is still in stock. I will settle for the larger pints if it works better.
As a benchmark, I should be emptying 2x per day, and after 12 hours it’s only 1/4 full.

Frank · Answer

Got the F0 code and after doing all the Frigidaire suggested fixes with the same error code. I contacted customer service and was told it was a cooling system failure that was covered by a 5-year warranty. Luckily I've had the unit only 3 years. They are sending me some paperwork to fill out and they will send me a new unit. Very important to have the purchase recipt.

Howard · Answer

I have the same problem...big dollar 70 pint model...only 2 years old!!!

Hopeful · Answer

I tried the blue/brown wire hack. Ended up getting the same code. 
Was able to get a warranty replacement of my unit.

Ocho6s · Answer

Believe it or not! It’s so easy!! Just clean inside under the filter cover those copper pipe mostly on the left with alcohol and boom! It’s working perfect!! Hope you do it!!

Henry · Answer

I have not gotten this code, but I have had unexpected events that I cleared by unplugging the unit and restarting it. I also found that changing the humidity level seemed to cause the unit to clear the problem and act as a reset. Just a guess, but like rebooting a computer. Strange but it worked.

Andrew · Answer

IT INDICATE THAT THIS UNIT IS A CHEAP PC OF CRAP FROM CHINA WHICH LASTS 3 YEARS AT BEST, BUT i'M GONNE TRY CUTTING AND JUMPING THOSE SENSOR WIRES ANYWAY. NEVER BY THIS BRAND AGAIN, OR IF YOU DO, GET THAT WARRANY DEAL FOR THE EXTRA WHATEVER FOR AT LEAST 4 YRS

logicalchoice · Answer

This is a common error code on this model and will need repair or replacement.

Loyal · Answer

It means the unit is beyond fixing and hopefully under warranty--Frigidaire will replace with new one if it is or refund your money if you the receipt.

Sebastian · Answer

If the display reads "F0" , check the following operating conditions. Outlet voltage should be 115V±10% and the surrounding temperature should be with in the range of 41 °F (5 °C) to 90 °F (32 °C). Unplug the unit and plug it in again under normal operating conditions. If the "F0" code persists, contact your Authorized Frigidaire Service Center.

raptor · Answer

it indicates improper voltags.unit must be plugged directly into out let no extention cords.

“I keep getting an FO code. I've cleaned the filter several times and the machine still won't run. The reset filter button doesn't seem to work. What does this code mean? What needs to be done to get the machine to work again?”

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