The E73 error on your Frigidaire dryer means the control board has detected a fault in the exhaust thermistor circuit — the sensor that monitors the temperature of the air leaving the drum. This is usually caused by a loose wire connection, a failed thermistor, or excess lint blocking airflow around the sensor. Checking the wiring and cleaning around the thermistor resolves this in most cases.

Error code E73
Meaning Exhaust thermistor circuit fault (open or shorted signal detected by the control board)
Severity Medium — the dryer may still run but heating cycles can be affected or shut down
Time to fix 15–40 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)

What the E73 error means

Frigidaire dryers use a thermistor near the exhaust duct to track how hot the air gets during a drying cycle. The control board reads this signal constantly to adjust heating and prevent overheating. When the E73 code appears, the board is telling you it either can’t read the thermistor at all (open circuit) or is getting an impossible reading (short circuit).

This is similar in nature to sensor communication faults seen on other Frigidaire appliances, such as the Frigidaire EF Error Code, where a component stops reporting correctly to the main board.

Common causes

  • Loose or disconnected wire at the thermistor connector
  • Failed or degraded thermistor (resistance reading out of range)
  • Lint buildup insulating or interfering with the sensor
  • Damaged wiring harness from heat exposure over time
  • Faulty control board (less common, but possible)
  • Poor connection at the control board terminal

How to fix the E73 error

  1. Unplug the dryer: Disconnect power at the outlet before opening any panels for safety.
  2. Locate the thermistor: It’s usually mounted near the exhaust duct at the back or bottom of the drum housing — check your model’s service diagram if unsure.
  3. Inspect the wiring: Look for loose, corroded, or disconnected wires at the thermistor plug and trace the harness back to the control board.
  4. Test the thermistor with a multimeter: Compare the resistance reading against the manufacturer’s spec sheet for your model; a reading far outside range means it needs replacing.
  5. Clean around the sensor: Remove lint buildup from the duct area, as it can trap heat and give false readings.
  6. Replace the thermistor if faulty: Swap in a genuine Frigidaire replacement part, reconnect everything, and run a test cycle.

FAQ

Can I keep using the dryer with an E73 code showing?
You can sometimes run a cycle, but heating performance may be inconsistent or the dryer may cut off mid-cycle. It’s best to fix the sensor fault before regular use.

Is the thermistor the same as the thermal fuse?
No. The thermistor is a variable resistor that reports temperature to the control board, while the thermal fuse is a one-time safety device that cuts power if the dryer overheats. They’re separate parts.

Do I need a replacement part or can it be repaired?
Thermistors can’t be repaired — if testing confirms it’s faulty, it needs to be replaced with a compatible Frigidaire part rather than repaired.