How to Replace the Drain Valve Solenoid on a Frigidaire Dishwasher

Some Frigidaire dishwasher models use a drain valve solenoid in addition to (or as part of) the drain pump assembly. This solenoid controls the drain path by opening a valve that allows the drain pump to evacuate water from the tub. When the solenoid fails in the closed position, the pump runs but water cannot exit, resulting in i20 or i40 error codes and standing water after a cycle. This component is distinct from the drain pump motor itself. The pump provides force, while the solenoid provides the path.

Not all Frigidaire models have a separate drain solenoid. Newer models (2018 and later) typically use a direct-drive drain pump where the pump motor and valve are integrated into one assembly. Older models (pre-2018) and some Frigidaire Professional series may have a separate solenoid valve on the drain path. Check your model's technical data sheet (taped behind the toe plate or inside the console cover) to confirm whether your unit has this component.

Before You Start

• Tools needed: Phillips #2 screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, digital multimeter, towels, shallow pan
• Parts needed: Drain valve solenoid ($20-$50, model-specific)
• Time required: 25-35 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Safety warning: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. Water will be present in the drain area, so work carefully to avoid electrical contact with standing water.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Confirm the Drain Solenoid Is the Problem

Before replacing the solenoid, verify the drain path is not blocked by simpler causes:

1. Remove and clean the flat mesh filter (lifts out by center handle).
2. Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
3. Run the garbage disposal to clear the shared drain.
4. Listen during the drain phase: if you hear the drain pump motor running (whirring sound) but water is not draining, and you have cleared all physical blockages, the drain solenoid may be stuck closed.

Electrical test: Disconnect power, remove the kick plate, and locate the drain solenoid (a cylindrical coil mounted on or near the drain valve assembly). Disconnect the solenoid wires and measure resistance with a multimeter. A good solenoid should read 500-1500 ohms. Open circuit means the coil is burned out. If it reads good electrically, the valve mechanism itself may be seized from scale or debris.

Step 2: Remove Standing Water

If the tub has standing water, bail it out with a cup and towels or use a wet-dry vacuum. The less water in the system, the less will spill when you disconnect the drain path components. Place towels and a shallow pan under the work area.

Step 3: Access the Drain Assembly

Remove the lower access panel (2 Phillips screws on the kick plate). Locate the drain assembly underneath the tub. On models with a separate drain solenoid, you will see a cylindrical solenoid coil attached to a valve body on the drain path between the sump outlet and the drain hose connection. The solenoid has 2 wires connected to it.

Step 4: Disconnect the Solenoid Wiring

Photograph the wire connections. Disconnect the electrical connector or pull the individual spade connectors off the solenoid terminals. On some models, the solenoid has a plug-type connector; on others, it has bare spade terminals.

Step 5: Remove the Old Drain Solenoid

The solenoid is mounted to the valve body with either a snap ring, a retaining screw, or a twist-lock mechanism. On most Frigidaire models with this configuration, the solenoid slides onto the valve stem and is held by a retaining clip. Compress the clip with needle-nose pliers and pull the solenoid straight off the valve body. Some configurations have the solenoid as an integral part of the valve assembly, in which case you replace the entire valve unit (solenoid + valve body + mounting bracket).

Step 6: Inspect the Valve Mechanism

With the solenoid removed, check the valve plunger (the metal rod that the solenoid actuates). It should move freely in and out when pushed with a finger. If it is stuck, soak the valve body in a vinegar solution for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits, then try again. If the plunger moves freely and the solenoid tested bad electrically, only the solenoid needs replacement. If the plunger is permanently stuck, replace the entire valve assembly.

Step 7: Install the New Solenoid

Slide the new solenoid onto the valve body stem in the same orientation as the old one. Secure with the retaining clip or screw. Reconnect the electrical wires in the same configuration as documented in your photos. Ensure connectors are pushed on fully.

Step 8: Test for Proper Drainage

Restore power at the breaker. Run a cycle and let it proceed to the drain phase. Listen for the solenoid click (energizing) followed by the drain pump running and water flowing out through the drain hose. The tub should drain completely within 1-2 minutes during the drain phase. Check underneath for leaks at the valve body connections. If the i20 or i40 error code does not return after a complete cycle, the repair is successful.

Reinstall the kick plate.

Understanding the Frigidaire Drain System

Frigidaire dishwashers use one of two drain configurations:

1. Direct-drive drain pump (newer models): The drain pump motor directly drives an impeller. When the control board sends power to the pump, it spins and evacuates water. No separate solenoid needed.

2. Solenoid-actuated drain valve (older/Professional models): The drain pump provides suction, but a solenoid-controlled valve must open to allow the water path. The control board energizes both the pump motor and the solenoid simultaneously during drain phases.

If your model uses configuration 1 and you are experiencing drain failures, see our drain pump replacement guide instead. Configuration 2 can fail at either the pump or the solenoid independently.

When to Call a Professional

• The drain valve is integrated into the sump housing and requires partial disassembly of the tub bottom to access.
• After solenoid replacement, the i40 error persists. The control board relay that powers the solenoid may have failed.
• You cannot identify whether your model has a separate solenoid or an integrated drain pump (check the technical data sheet behind the kick plate for a wiring diagram).
• Water damage or corrosion is extensive under the dishwasher, suggesting a long-standing leak that preceded the solenoid failure.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Need Professional Help?

• Dishwasher repair service
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• Dishwasher repair cost guide

FAQ

Q: Does my Frigidaire dishwasher have a drain solenoid or just a drain pump? A: Most Frigidaire models manufactured after 2018 use a direct-drive drain pump without a separate solenoid. Older models and some Professional series units have a solenoid-actuated drain valve. Check the technical data sheet (taped behind the kick plate) for your model's drain system configuration. If you see a cylindrical coil on the drain assembly separate from the pump motor, your model has a solenoid.

Q: What is the difference between error codes i20 and i40 on a Frigidaire dishwasher? A: Both indicate drain issues, but i20 means slow drainage (water level is decreasing but too slowly) while i40 means complete drain failure (no water level change during the drain phase). i20 is often a partial blockage (filter debris, kinked hose). i40 is more likely a failed component (solenoid stuck closed or pump motor dead).

Q: Can I bypass the drain solenoid temporarily? A: This is not recommended. The solenoid is part of the control sequence, and bypassing it (holding it permanently open) would allow the tub to drain continuously during wash and rinse phases, preventing proper water retention. The repair is straightforward and inexpensive enough that replacement is always the correct approach.

Q: Are Frigidaire drain components the same as Electrolux drain components? A: Yes. Frigidaire is manufactured by Electrolux and the drain system components are shared between brands of the same model generation. Parts listed under Electrolux model numbers are physically identical to Frigidaire equivalents. Always cross-reference using your specific model number to ensure compatibility.

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