Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Unplug the washer.
- Attempt a power reset: leave the washer unplugged for 5 minutes, then plug back in and run a Drain & Spin cycle.
- If E23 clears after the reset, monitor for recurrence — occasional glitches can be transient.
- If E23 returns, check that the drain pump filter is not clogged (see E21) — an overloaded pump can blow the relay.
- If the filter is clean and E23 persists, the control board relay has failed and requires a technician.
If it's still not draining
- If the drain path looks clear but the code returns, the issue is more likely in the pump path or another less accessible restriction.
- If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
- E23 returns after a 5-minute power reset with a clean pump filter
What This Error Means
Error E23 on your Electrolux washing machine means: The main control board's relay that powers the drain pump has failed. The pump is not receiving the electrical signal to run, so the drum cannot drain. E23 points to an electronic component fault rather than a mechanical blockage. The washer's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is burned or failed drain pump relay on the main control board. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most Electrolux washer errors are resolved without a service call.
This is a technician-only fault. A 2–3 minute power reset is the only DIY step — if the code returns, call a certified appliance technician.
On front-load models, the pump filter (coin trap) is the first thing to check — it sits behind a small access panel on the lower front of the machine and collects lint, coins, and small items. Cleaning it takes 10 minutes and resolves the majority of drain faults.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Electrolux washing machine may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Burned or failed drain pump relay on the main control board
Check first: SAFETY: Unplug the washer.
Water may remain inside the drum at the end of the cycle.
Likely cause: Loose wiring harness connection between the control board and the drain pump
Check first: Attempt a power reset: leave the washer unplugged for 5 minutes, then plug back in and run a Drain & Spin cycle.
Performance may drop because airflow, filtering, or draining is restricted.
Likely cause: Power surge that damaged control board components
Check first: If E23 clears after the reset, monitor for recurrence — occasional glitches can be transient.
Common Causes
- Burned or failed drain pump relay on the main control board
- Loose wiring harness connection between the control board and the drain pump
- Power surge that damaged control board components
- Drain pump short-circuit that burned the relay protecting it
What Not to Do
- Do not attempt to bypass the control board relay — this creates a serious fire risk
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Electrolux washing machine display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
Electrolux service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Electrolux washing machine parts.
Common parts
- Main control board ($100–$250)
- Drain pump assembly ($35–$80) - test the pump before replacing the board
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
E23 returns after a 5-minute power reset with a clean pump filter
- The drum contains standing water and the pump does not run at all
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Keep the pump filter clean — a clogged filter forces the pump to draw excess current that can burn the control board relay.
Related Error Codes
E21
Electrolux washer error E21 usually means the machine is draining, but not fast enough to empty the drum normally.
EF1
The front-load washer's drain pump filter (coin trap) is blocked with lint, debris, or a foreign object. EF1 is one of the most common error codes on front-load Frigidaire and Electrolux washers and is almost always resolved by cleaning the pump filter — a task that takes under 15 minutes.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Electrolux support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-09
Based on: Based on Electrolux support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Electrolux US Official Support
Model coverage note: Electrolux washing machine code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.