The E16 error on your Frigidaire washer means the machine has detected water where it shouldn’t be — usually in the base pan or overflow area. The control board switches to a safety mode and runs the drain pump automatically. A few checks around hoses, seals, and drainage usually clear it.

Error code E16
Meaning Water leak or overflow detected in the base of the washer
Severity Medium — the wash cycle stops until the leak is cleared and reset
Time to fix 15–40 minutes
Tools needed Towels, torch, adjustable pliers (for hose clamps)

What the E16 error means

Frigidaire washing machines have a sensor in the base pan that watches for stray water. When it detects moisture, the E16 code appears and the machine stops mid-cycle, drains any water in the tub, and locks the door as a precaution. It’s a protective response rather than a sign the machine is broken outright — but the underlying cause needs sorting before you run another load.

This is different from refrigerator-side issues like the Frigidaire EF Error Code, but the same “sensor detects a fault, board reacts safely” logic applies across Frigidaire appliances.

Common causes

  • A loose or split water inlet hose connection at the back of the machine
  • Worn or cracked door/drum seal (gasket) letting water escape during the wash
  • Blocked or kinked drain hose causing water to back up and overflow
  • Detergent overdosing, producing excess suds that leak past the seal
  • A faulty leak sensor or wiring fault in the base pan itself
  • The washer not sitting level, causing water to pool on one side of the base

How to fix the E16 error

  1. Unplug and inspect the base: Turn off power, tilt the washer slightly (with help) and check the base pan for standing water or debris.
  2. Check hose connections: Look at the inlet hoses and drain hose at the back for loose fittings, cracks, or kinks, and tighten or replace as needed.
  3. Examine the door seal: Run a hand around the rubber gasket for splits, trapped debris, or detergent build-up, and clean or replace if damaged.
  4. Reduce detergent use: Switch to a high-efficiency (HE) detergent and use the recommended dose to avoid excess suds forcing water past seals.
  5. Level the machine: Use a spirit level and adjust the feet so the washer sits flat and doesn’t pool water on one side.
  6. Reset and test: Plug the washer back in, run a short rinse cycle with no clothes, and watch the base area for fresh leaks.

FAQ

Can I keep using the washer after an E16 error?
It’s best to fix the leak source first. Running more cycles with a leak can damage the motor, bearings, or flooring.

Does E16 always mean a leak, or could it be a sensor fault?
Usually it means water was detected, but if you’ve checked hoses, seals, and drainage and found nothing wet, the leak sensor itself may be faulty and need testing by a technician.

Will unplugging the washer reset the E16 code?
Yes, unplugging for a minute often clears the code, but it will return on the next cycle if the leak hasn’t been fixed.