The A-to-Z of Dryer Error Codes
Your dryer is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, and when something goes wrong, it often tries to tell you with error codes. While some codes point to minor issues, the most urgent ones are tied to airflow restriction, dryer vent blockages, and overheating. These aren’t just inconveniences – they’re fire hazards.
For St. Paul homeowners, the risks are even higher. Our cold winters can freeze exterior vents, while older homes often have longer or improperly routed ductwork. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common dryer error codes, explain what they mean, and show you when to call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul's certified technicians for professional dryer vent cleaning and repair services.
Dryer Error Codes by Brand
Dryer error codes may look confusing, but they’re really your appliance’s way of saying they need help. Many of the codes below directly point to clogged vents or restricted airflow. If you see one, stop using your dryer until a professional has inspected the dryer vent system.
Samsung Dryer Error Codes
- HE (Heating Error): Usually caused by restricted air flow.
- Vent Check Indicator: Signals vent restriction.
- Clg / Cg: Vent is clogged.
- C80 / C8 / C8o: ~80% blockage.
- C90 / C9 / C9o: ~90% blockage. Serious warning.
- HC / hE / HC4 / 1 HC: Overheating from blocked exhaust vents.
- tS / t5 / tC / tO / t0 / tE3 / tC5 / tCS / 1tC / 1tC5 / 1tCS: Sensor or temperature issues tied to airflow.
If your Samsung dryer shows any of these codes, stop using it and call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul for urgent dryer vent cleaning to get your machine working as efficiently as possible.
LG Dryer Error Codes
- d75: 75% blockage (early warning).
- d80: 80% blockage.
- d90: 90% blockage.
- d95: 95% blockage.
- tE1 / tE2 / tE3: Thermistor faults, often from overheating.
- FO: Filter not inserted properly.
- E13: Drain/frozen water issue (steam models).
- nP: No current to heater; sometimes airflow-related.
- HS: Humidity sensor error.
LG dryers use percentage-based blockage codes. Don’t ignore the signs. Ensure your safety and call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul for a dryer vent cleaning and other services.
Whirlpool/ Maytag/ Kenmore Dryer Error Codes
- AF: Restricted airflow.
- F4 E3: Model-specific air flow alert.
- Kenmore F30: Airflow in the dryer and exhaust vents is restricted by lint or residue.
- Amana AF / “Check Vent”: Low airflow.
If your Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, or Amana dryer flashes these codes, schedule professional cleaning with Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul before running another load to prevent potential fire hazards.
GE Dryer Error Codes
- Clean Lint Filter: Persistent warning = vent blockage.
- E20 / E21: Temperature sensor issues tied to overheating.
- E22: Vent blockage detected.
GE dryers are direct: if they say airflow is blocked, trust them. Call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul to inspect or clean your dryer vents.
Electrolux/Frigidaire Dryer Error Codes
- E64: Heater relay failure (often caused by clogs).
- E61: Heating element fault, sometimes airflow-related.
- EF1: Ventilation blockage.
If your Electrolux or Frigidaire dryer shows EF1, airflow is restricted. Turn off the drying cycle and book a cleaning process today.
Bosch Dryer Error Codes
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E01 / E02 / E03: Fluff filter or vent blockage.
If your Bosch dryer flashes these codes, airflow is blocked. Call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul to restore safe and efficient operation.
Speed Queen Dryer Error Codes
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AF / EAF2: Airflow restrictions from clogged vents or lint traps.
Speed Queen dryers are built tough, but even they can’t run safely with blocked vents. Call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul to ensure safety and stop potential fire hazards.
How Regular Dryer Care Prevents Emergencies
Understanding error codes is important, but preventing them in the first place is even better. The truth is, most dryer issues in St. Paul homes aren’t caused by faulty machines; they come from clogged or neglected vent systems. Our region’s long winters, older housing stock, and extended vent runs in multi-level homes make it even easier for lint and debris to build up unnoticed. Add in snow and ice covering outdoor dryer vents, and airflow can stop completely, creating extended drying times, moisture buildup, fire, and other issues that will stop your appliance from working efficiently.
Routine professional services like dryer vent cleaning ensure your dryer's safety, efficiency, and continued operation. A simple commitment to annual service saves money on energy bills, extends appliance life, and most importantly, protects your home from fire hazards.
The Hidden Threat of Fabric Softener Residue
Dryer lint may be the most visible culprit in dryer fires, but it’s not the only one. Dryer sheets and liquid fabric softeners leave behind a sticky, wax-like residue on your lint screen. Over time, this residue builds up, reducing the filter’s ability to capture lint. The result? More lint sneaks into your vent system, creating dangerous clogs.
For St. Paul homeowners, this can be especially problematic in high-humidity months when lint sticks more easily or in busy households where laundry runs daily. What seems like a harmless habit, using dryer sheets for softer clothes, can actually contribute to airflow problems and overheating.
Warning signs of residue buildup include:
- A sticky or slimy lint screen
- Clothes are still damp after a full cycle
- A faint burning smell during operation
Wash your lint trap monthly with soap and water, cut back on dryer sheet use, and book yearly vent cleanings and inspections to clear hidden buildup.
Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul can eliminate residue-related lint buildup and restore normal airflow to ensure the safety of your laundry rooms and homes.
Reset or Repair? Knowing When to Act
Sometimes dryers display error codes because of temporary glitches, like a tripped sensor, a short power interruption, or a momentary blockage. A quick reset may clear the message, but resets are only temporary solutions. If airflow is restricted, the error code will always come back.
For St. Paul households, relying on a reset can be dangerous, especially during the colder months when frozen exterior vents cause recurring blockages. Think of a reset like turning off a car’s “check engine” light without fixing the engine – it only hides the problem.
Quick Reset Steps:
- Unload the machine and unplug the dryer connection for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Clean the lint screen and check outdoor vent openings.
- Restart the dryer cycle.
If the error code reappears, it’s time to stop guessing and call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul for a professional inspection.
What to Watch for Without Codes
Not every dryer model flashes error codes when airflow is blocked. Many older units in St. Paul homes simply give off physical warning signs, and recognizing them can prevent disaster.
Clogged vents may reveal themselves through longer drying times, unusual odors, or a dryer that feels hot to the touch. In winter, snow and ice can block outside vents, forcing air back into the dryer. These “silent” signs are just as urgent as flashing codes.
Look out for:
- Longer cycles than normal
- Excessive heat from the dryer’s exterior
- Musty, smoky, or burning odors on clothes and loads of laundry
- Buildup behind the lint filter or around the machine
- Dryer shutting off mid-cycle
Keep your dryer as efficient as possible by scheduling a thorough inspection and repair service straight away.
Protect Your Home, Not Just Your Dryer
Error codes, unusual smells, mold growth, and longer drying times. All of these are your dryer’s way of speaking to you. Ignoring these messages can mean higher utility bills, costly breakdowns, or worse, a potential fire hazard. In fact, dryer fires are one of the leading causes of fire damage in houses across the U.S. A clean dryer vent protects you from these risks.
At Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul, we specialize in more than just cleaning. Our certified technicians do a fantastic job at services like:
- Professional dryer vent cleaning
- Vent inspections and rerouting for long dryer duct systems
- Repairs and replacements using safe, code-compliant materials
- Booster fan installations for homes with extended runs
- Interior and exterior vent cover replacements to protect against snow, pests, and debris
Don’t let a clogged vent or duct put your family or house at risk. Call Dryer Vent Wizard of St. Paul today or schedule your appointment online. Enjoy increased safety, lower energy bills, and total peace of mind.