What Your Dryer’s Error Code Is Really Trying to Tell You
Your dryer speaks in code — sometimes in letters, numbers, or even icons. The challenge is knowing what it’s saying and acting before small problems turn into costly or dangerous ones.
When your dryer flashes a mysterious combination of letters and numbers, it’s not just a glitch—it’s a direct message from your appliance. Many of these codes are warnings about restricted airflow, overheating, or component issues that can quickly escalate into costly repairs or fire hazards. In North Jersey, seasonal hazards like heavy snow, leaf debris, and animal nests can make these issues more common, which is why knowing what your dryer is telling you is essential.
Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey specializes in fixing the airflow problems behind these warnings, keeping your dryer safe, efficient, and ready to handle daily laundry loads.
Common Dryer Error Codes by Brand
Each dryer brand uses its own set of error codes to signal airflow restrictions and related problems. Some codes are obvious, like “Clean Filter,” while others—like C90 or d95—require translation. This comprehensive list covers airflow-related codes from the most common dryer brands so North Jersey homeowners can identify problems early and take action.
Quick Reference Table
| Brand | Code(s) | Meaning | Action |
| LG | d75–d95 | 75–95% airflow blockage | Stop use, schedule cleaning |
| Samsung | C80/C90, HC, tS, Clg | Blockage/overheating | Call before next use |
| Whirlpool/Maytag | AF, F4E3 | Airflow restricted | Inspect & clean vent |
| Kenmore | F30 | Residue/airflow blockage | Clean lint trap & vent |
| Electrolux | EF1 | Ventilation blockage | Schedule professional cleaning |
| Bosch | E01/E02 | Fluff filter/vent blockage | Clear & inspect |
| Amana | AF | Low airflow | Clean vent |
| Speed Queen | AF/EAF2 | Airflow problems | Clean vent & ducting |
LG Dryer Error Codes
- d75 – 75% airflow restriction (early warning)
- d80 – 80% restriction
- d90 – 90% restriction
- d95 – 95% restriction
- FO – Lint filter not inserted
- tE1 / tE2 / tE3 – Thermistor faults
- E13 – Drain/frozen water (steam models)
- nP – No current detected at heater
- dE – Door switch error
- HS – Humidity sensor fault
- CL – Child lock
If you see d75–d95, stop using your dryer and call Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey. These codes mean your vent is dangerously restricted.
Samsung Dryer Error Codes (Airflow & Overheating)
Vent Blockage Test Codes
- Clg / Cg – Vent clogged
- C80 / C8 / C8o – ~80% blocked
- C90 / C9 / C9o – ~90% blocked
Overheating
- HC / hE / HC4 / 1 HC – Overheating from restricted vent
Temperature Sensor (airflow-related)
- tS / t5 / tC / tO / t0 / tE3 / tC5 / tCS / 1tC / 1tC5 / 1tCS – Sensor/control faults from poor airflow
Door Mechanism
- dE, do, dF, 1DC, 1dF, dC, d0 – Door not closing securely
Software Update
- dn – Download in progress (don’t unplug)
If your Samsung dryer displays any of these blockage or overheating codes, call us before using it again to avoid overheating or fire hazards.
Whirlpool / Maytag
- AF – Restricted airflow
- F4 E3 – AF equivalent
- L2 – Low/no voltage
- F01 / F02 – Control board/interface fault
- F31 – Moisture sensor issue
- F2E1 – Stuck button
- PF – Power failure
Kenmore
- AF – Restricted airflow
- F30 – Lint/fabric softener residue restricting airflow
GE / Electrolux / Frigidaire
- E22 / E64 – Vent or heater fault
- Clean Filter – Reminder (often ignored)
- EF1 (Electrolux) – Ventilation blockage
- E40 / E42 – Door not closed/door open
- E4 – Humidity sensor error
- E8C (Frigidaire) – High limit thermostat tripped
- E A5 – Service needed (control/sensor)
- PF – Power failure
- H4 / B4 – Incorrect wiring
- H2 / B2 – Power supply issue
- AD – Auto dry function active
- Mute – Alerts silenced (can hide errors)
Bosch
- E01 / E02 – Fluff filter or vent blockage
Amana
- AF or “Check Vent” – Low airflow from lint or hose issues
Speed Queen
- AF / EAF2 – Airflow problems from clogged vents or lint trap
Why Airflow Matters
Your dryer depends on a steady stream of air to expel heat and moisture. When lint buildup, crushed vent hoses, or outside obstructions block that airflow, heat gets trapped inside the machine. This makes cycles less efficient, increases wear on internal components, and raises the risk of fire. The codes above are your first—and sometimes only—warning before damage occurs.
Fabric Softener Residue: The Hidden Culprit
Fabric softener sheets and liquids can quietly contribute to vent clogs. The residue they leave behind coats lint traps, trapping more lint and restricting airflow.
Signs of residue buildup:
- Sticky lint trap
- Clothes overly damp after drying
- Sour or burnt smell
Prevention:
- Use softener sparingly / switch to dryer balls
- Wash lint screen monthly with warm, soapy water
- Schedule annual professional vent cleaning
Troubleshooting Steps
Sometimes an airflow-related code can be resolved without a service call. Try this first:
- Unplug dryer and wait 5–10 minutes
- Clean lint trap & housing (wash with soapy water if sticky)
- Inspect vent hose for kinks, crushing, or too many turns
- Check outside vent for nests, snow, leaves, or debris
- If Electrolux: disable “Mute” mode so alerts appear
- Restart dryer
If code returns — call Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey.
Signs You Need Cleaning (Even Without a Code)
Not all vent issues trigger a code. Watch for:
- Clothes taking longer to dry
- Dryer hot to the touch
- Burning smell
- Lint around dryer base
- Excess humidity in laundry room
- Needing to run timed-dry repeatedly
- Drum temperature exceeding 150°F
Maintenance Frequency & Vent Length Rule
How often you clean depends on your household size and dryer use:
- Annually – Most homes
- Every 3–4 months – Large families, pets, or long vent runs
- Every 3–5 years – Light-use, single-occupant homes
Vent length rule – Max 25 ft minus 5 ft per 90° bend, 2.5 ft per 45° bend.
North Jersey Seasonal Hazards
New Jersey’s climate creates seasonal vent risks:
- Winter: Snow, ice, and freezing temps blocking vent covers
- Fall: Heavy leaf fall and wind-driven debris
- Spring: Bird nests and squirrels in vent openings
- Summer: Humidity increasing lint clumping inside ducts
Knowing these hazards helps you time maintenance before problems arise.
Our Process & Guarantee
When you call Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey, you get:
- Full vent inspection & airflow test
- Lint and debris removal from dryer to outside vent
- Hose reconnection & vent length optimization
- 90-day service guarantee
When to Call Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey
If the error persists after your DIY fixes—or if you’re seeing d90 and d95 error codes repeatedly—it’s time to request service. At Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing vent blockages, cleaning out hidden lint buildup, and inspecting the entire ventilation system for safety and code compliance.
We also handle:
- Child lock resets and control panel issues
- Reinstalling or replacing crushed or old vent hoses
- Re-routing vent systems for better airflow
- Testing for correct voltage and appliance grounding
- Deep cleaning of dryer ducts and inside dryer components
Why Dryer Vent Cleaning Is Essential
Regular maintenance isn't just about avoiding dryer error codes. A blocked vent system increases drying times, spikes utility bills, and creates serious fire hazards. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that failure to clean the dryer is the leading cause of dryer fires.
Signs you need a vent cleaning include:
- Clothes taking multiple cycles to dry
- Hot or humid laundry room air
- Burning smell while drying
- Dryer that shuts off mid-cycle
- Persistent d80, d90 or d95 error codes
Don’t Let Your Dryer Become a Danger
When your dryer shows an error code, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a warning. From a simple Clean Filter reminder to serious airflow alerts like d90 and d95, these messages often mean your vent system is blocked and your home is at risk of overheating or fire.
If you’re in North Jersey or the surrounding areas and your dryer keeps showing a code you don’t recognize—or one that won’t go away—let Dryer Vent Wizard of North Jersey handle it before it turns into a hazard.
Request Your Free Quote & Restore Safe, Efficient Airflow Today