Frigidaire i20 Error Code — What It Means
The i20 code on a Frigidaire dishwasher signals that the unit did not drain properly during the cycle. The control board detected standing water in the tub after the drain pump ran. This can happen because of a physical blockage in the drain path, improper hose installation, or a problem with the drain pump or pressure-sensing circuit. In most cases the fix is straightforward: a clogged filter, kinked hose, or forgotten knockout plug in the garbage disposal.
Common Causes
- Clogged filter or glass trap Food debris, labels, and small objects accumulate in the filter assembly at the tub bottom and block water from reaching the drain pump.
- Kinked or blocked drain hose The drain hose can be pinched behind the dishwasher, sagging too low, or clogged internally with grease and food particles.
- Disposer knockout plug not removed If the dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, the plastic knockout plug inside the disposal inlet must be punched out or water cannot exit.
- Incorrect drain hose height Frigidaire requires the drain hose to rise to at least 32 inches from the floor before descending to the drain connection.
- Obstructed sump or drain inlet Broken glass, twist ties, or hard debris can lodge in the sump cavity below the filter and block the path to the pump.
- Faulty drain pump or pressure switch If all plumbing is clear but the tub still holds water, the drain pump may have failed or debris may be blocking the pressure-sensing channel.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Reset the control by pressing cancel, then turn off power at the breaker or unplug the dishwasher for three minutes to clear the fault code.
- Remove and clean the filter assembly at the tub bottom, including the glass trap and any screen inserts, rinsing away all food soil and debris.
- Inspect the sump cavity below the filter for broken glass, labels, twist ties, or other hard objects that can block the drain inlet.
- Check the drain hose routing under the sink, straightening any kinks, confirming the hose rises to at least 32 inches from the floor, and verifying no internal blockage.
- Verify the garbage disposal connection by reaching into the disposal inlet with a screwdriver and confirming the knockout plug was removed during installation.
- Run a drain or cancel cycle and listen for the drain pump to run continuously, then open the door and check that the tub is empty.
- Test the drain pump and pressure switch if water remains after a clear drain path is confirmed, checking for pump hum without flow or consulting your model’s service sheet for electrical diagnostics.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dishwasher filter assembly (glass trap and screen) | Amazon | Order the exact filter kit for your Frigidaire model number. |
| Drain hose | Amazon | Universal or OEM hose, typically 5/8-inch inside diameter, long enough for proper loop height. |
| Drain pump | Amazon | Model-specific pump assembly if the motor does not run or water does not evacuate despite a clear path. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a technician if you have cleaned the filter, verified the hose routing and disposal connection, and the dishwasher still throws the i20 code with standing water in the tub. The issue is likely a failed drain pump, a blocked pressure-sensing channel, or a control board fault that requires disassembly and electrical testing. Also call for help if you are uncomfortable working under the sink, disconnecting water and power, or removing panels to access internal components.