Humidifiers can be a lifesaver, particularly if you live in a damp or humid climate. They keep the air fresh and dry while helping to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. 

But what if your Frigidaire dehumidifier is displaying an EC error code? This usually means there is an issue with what is known as the “sealed system” of the dehumidifier, which includes the compressor, condenser coils, evaporator, and refrigerant. 

Although this sounds serious, don’t panic! There are a couple of fixes you can try that will hopefully have your dehumidifier up and running again in no time.

This guide applies to all popular models of Frigidaire dehumidifiers, including:

FAD504DUD10

FAD504DWD0

FAD504DWD16

FAD504DWDE1

FAD704DUD14

FAD704DWD0

FAD704DWD6

FAD704DWDA0

FAD704DWDA1

FAD704DWDE1

FFAD5033R10

FFAD7033R10

FGAC7044U100

LAD504DUL10

LAD504DUL12

MDD25WF1

MDD30WF1

MDD40WF1

MDD40WF2

MDD50WF1

MDDQ40FF1

How Do Dehumidifiers Work?

Dehumidifiers work to condense water out of the air by cooling the air over a holding surface. The liquid droplets from the air then condense and drip into the collection bucket, which can be emptied when it gets too full. This process makes the air in your home dryer and less prone to mold. 

Reset Your Dehumidifier

Sometimes, error codes come about due to temporary glitches caused by power surges or other random events. In this case, clearing the error code may be as simple as resetting your appliance. Here’s how to do it:

• Check if your model of dehumidifier has a reset button. If it does, press the button and wait for the appliance to reset. Then check to see if the error code has cleared. 
• If you can’t see a reset button, try a manual reset. Unplug your humidifier from the wall and leave it unplugged for 30 minutes to give it time to completely cool down. Then plug it back in and see if the error code has cleared. 

Check if Your Dehumidifier is Within Warranty

Unfortunately, because the EC error refers to the “sealed system,” there are not many DIY fixes you can try if you experience this error. The sealed system contains refrigerant and shouldn’t be touched by anyone other than a qualified technician. If your dehumidifier is relatively new, your best bet is to contact Frigidaire and check to see if it’s still within the warranty period. If not, it probably won’t be cost effective to hire a technician, as dehumidifiers are relatively cheap appliances.

Keeping Your Dehumidifier in Good Condition

Prevention is better than cure, and ensuring your Frigidaire dehumidifier is kept in good condition is the best way to prevent error codes. 

Clean the Filter Regularly

Make sure you follow manufacturer recommendations for how often to replace the filter on your dehumidifier. In between filter changes, make sure you regularly empty the filter and vacuum out any dust or debris to ensure it stays as clean as possible. 

Clean the Air Intake and Exhaust

While it’s essential to clean out the filter regularly, don’t neglect the air intake or exhaust either! If the grilles are dirty, the dehumidifier has to work harder to cycle the air, causing damage and possibly leading to your appliance overheating. 

To clean:

• Turn off your dehumidifier and remove the condensate bucket.
• Take a vacuum with a brush attachment and thoroughly clean the air intake grille as well as the exhaust grille.
• Ensure you do this at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice dirt and grime building up.

Clean Out the Condensate Bucket

If you leave the condensate bucket too long without cleaning, it can lead to mold and mildew buildup, which can spread throughout the entire appliance. When you clean it, use soapy water and ensure it is totally dry before replacing it in your dehumidifier. 

Place Your Dehumidifier Properly

Dehumidifiers work best when they have enough space for the air to circulate. A dehumidifier placed against a wall or furniture can easily overheat, causing damage to the appliance. As well as keeping it away from walls and furniture to allow for air intake and exhaust, make sure it’s placed on a level surface. 

Don’t Turn it On and Off Again All the Time

When you turn off your dehumidifier, always give it at least ten minutes before you turn it back on. This allows the pressure in the compressor to equalize, which helps prevent damage. It also prevents the appliance from short-circuiting. 

Wipe Down the Exterior

While this isn’t strictly necessary to prevent error codes, it will keep your Frigidaire humidifier looking clean and new. If you live in a house with pets or smokers, your dehumidifier can easily get coated in dust, hair, and grime. Use a soft, clean cloth to thoroughly wipe the exterior to get the whole thing looking sparkling clean.