Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.

Frigidaire Dishwasher I20 Error Code: Drain Fault

Quick Answer

I20 on a Frigidaire dishwasher is a drain timeout fault. The most common cause is a clogged filter - Frigidaire filters on the FFCD and FGID series sit at the bottom of the tub and can accumulate food debris quickly with daily use. After cleaning the filter, check the drain hose for kinks before testing the pump.

I20 on a Frigidaire dishwasher is a drain timeout fault. The most common cause is a clogged filter - Frigidaire filters on the FFCD and FGID series sit at the bottom of the tub and can accumulate food debris quickly with daily use. After cleaning the filter, check the drain hose for kinks before testing the pump. The drain pump (154568401) should read 10-18 ohms on a multimeter. If the pump reads outside this range, replacement is needed. Unlike LG's rear-positioned filter, Frigidaire's filter is typically at the center base of the tub and twists to remove.

FrigidaireDishwasherSeverity: moderate87% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–60 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$28 – $48
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Flathead screwdriver

What Does the I20 Code Mean?

I20 is a drain timeout. Clean the Frigidaire filter at the tub base first. If clear, check drain hose routing. Test drain pump at 10-18 ohms and replace 154568401 if out of range.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Clogged drain filter blocking water flow to pump40%
Kinked or blocked drain hose24%
Drain pump motor winding failure14%
Food debris inside pump housing12%
Air gap or garbage disposal connection blocked10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • I20 displayed at end of drain cycle
  • Standing water at bottom of tub after cycle ends
  • Pump audible but water not clearing
  • Cycle aborts before completion

Can you reset a Frigidaire dishwasher to clear the I20 code?

After clearing the filter or fixing the drain path, hold Cancel/Drain for 3 seconds to run a drain-only cycle. If water drains fully, I20 will not return. For a full reset, unplug for 60 seconds.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterFlathead screwdriverNeedle-nose pliers

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Open the dishwasher and locate the filter at the center base of

Open the dishwasher and locate the filter at the center base of the tub. Twist to unlock and lift out. Rinse under running water until all food debris is removed. Reinstall and run a drain-only cycle (hold Cancel/Drain for 3 seconds) to confirm the drain clears.

2

Trace the drain hose from the back of the dishwasher to the

3

Disconnect power

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Drain Pump154568401 · $28–$48

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $38 (Parts) vs $600 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 10-18 ohms mean for the Frigidaire drain pump test?
A healthy Frigidaire drain pump motor winding reads between 10 and 18 ohms. An OL (open loop) reading means the motor winding has failed and the pump cannot run. A reading near zero indicates an internal short. Either result confirms the pump needs replacement.
How often should I clean the Frigidaire dishwasher filter?
For typical daily household use, clean the Frigidaire dishwasher filter every 4-6 weeks. Heavily used dishwashers or households with young children who leave significant food on dishes may need monthly cleaning. I20 codes from a clogged filter are entirely preventable with regular maintenance.

Related Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Codes

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Frigidaire shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Models Known to Experience I20 Errors

This repair applies to most Frigidaire dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

FFCD2413US, FFCD2418US, FGID2479SF, FGID2466QB, FFID2426TS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026