Frigidaire air conditioner ES error code: defrost or humidity sensor failed

What the ES code means

ES on a Frigidaire air conditioner means the indoor defrost thermistor or the humidity sensor has failed, according to Frigidaire. The unit stops because it cannot check its coil temperature or the room humidity. Unplug it for about 30 seconds, and contact support if ES returns.

The defrost thermistor is clipped to the indoor coil. The board uses it to stop the coil icing up. Models with humidity control, such as those with a Dry mode setpoint, also have a humidity sensor. If either reading is lost, the board shows ES.

A one-off ES after a power cut can be a glitch that unplugging clears. If it returns, the part needs testing.

Common causes

Listed from most to least common.

1. Indoor defrost (coil) thermistor failed
2. Humidity sensor failed, on models that have one
3. Sensor plug loose on the control board
4. Sensor wire damaged
5. Control board fault

How to fix the ES code

Unplug the air conditioner or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.

1. 1

   Step 1: Unplug the unit

   Unplug the air conditioner for about 30 seconds, as Frigidaire advises.

2. 2

   Step 2: Clean the filter

   While it is unplugged, slide out the filter and wash or vacuum it. This will not fix a failed sensor, but it rules out an iced coil giving odd readings.

3. 3

   Step 3: Plug in and restart

   Plug straight into a wall outlet and run Cool. If it runs normally for a few hours, the code was likely a glitch.

4. 4

   Step 4: Contact Frigidaire if it returns

   If ES comes back, stop using the unit and contact Frigidaire support.

How to reset the Frigidaire air conditioner

1. Turn the air conditioner off with the remote or the control panel.
2. Cut the power. Frigidaire says to unplug window and portable units for about 30 seconds. For a mini-split, turn off its breaker for a few minutes.
3. Restore power and turn the unit back on. The compressor normally waits about 3 minutes before starting, so give it time before judging.
4. If the same code comes back, the fault is still there. Work through the fix steps above, or contact Frigidaire support.

Parts that may need replacing

Check your model number on the label inside the door or on the back before ordering.

• Frigidaire AC thermistorCheck prices

When to call a technician

If ES returns after unplugging, a technician needs to test the defrost thermistor, humidity sensor and board. This means opening the cabinet.

A typical repair for this code costs $120–$300 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.

Models this applies to

• Window air conditioners (including Frigidaire Gallery)
• Portable air conditioners
• Ductless mini-splits

Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Frigidaire support.

Frequently asked questions