Danby Washer Dryer: error E38

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing error code E38 on your Danby washer dryer combo? This issue may indicate problems with the water level or pressure sensor, or potentially drainage blockages. Understanding and addressing these symptoms can help restore your appliance to optimal functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Possible Causes

Pressure/Water Level Sensor Fault or Pressure Chamber Blockage

How to Identify: Machine cannot detect water level changes; error appears during fill or drain; may not proceed with cycle.

Part: Pressure sensor or pressure chamber/tube

Drainage Blockage (hose, pump, filter)

How to Identify: Slow or no drainage, standing water in tub, error during drain phase.

Part: Drain hose, drain pump, pump filter

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Clean Drainage Path

Moderate 20‑40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, work gloves
  1. Unplug the unit and locate drain hose and any drain pump access panel
  2. Check and remove kinks or obstructions in the drain hose
  3. If accessible, clean the drain pump filter of lint and debris
  4. Reconnect and test run to see if code clears
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug machine before service

Check Pressure Hose and Sensor Area

Advanced 30‑60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver set, flashlight
  1. Unplug machine from power
  2. Access pressure sensor hose (typically a small flexible tube connecting drum to sensor)
  3. Inspect for kinks, debris or disconnections
  4. Clean or replace the pressure hose if clogged or damaged
  5. Reassemble and test
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure unit is unplugged and drained

Next step

Choose the next step for error E38

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Other parts options

Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.

Possible related component

Drain Hose

Carries waste water from the drain pump to your home's standpipe or sink drain.

$15 - $30 · Easy · 15-30 mins

Check fit & price
Possible related component

Drain Pump

Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.

$35 - $80 · Easy · 15-30 mins

Check fit & price
Model number required

Model-compatible Washer Dryer parts

Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.

Find a part that fits my model

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Optional routine care

Maintenance supplies

These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.

Maintenance supply

Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit

Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.

View maintenance supply
Maintenance supply

Lint Trap Cleaning Brush

A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.

View maintenance supply
Maintenance supply

Dryer Vent Hose Kit

A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.

View maintenance supply

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.

Professional Repairs

Replace Faulty Pressure Sensor or Control Board

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300+

Drain Pump or Hose Replacement

Estimated Cost: $80 - $250

When to Call a Professional

Error persists after DIY drainage and pressure hose cleaning
Signs of electrical failure (burn marks, flickering display)
Unusual noises from pump or motor area

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain hose and pump filter: Drainage blockages that can cause errors
    Frequency: every 3 months
  • Inspect pressure hose for buildup: Pressure sensor misreads
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Danby Washer Dryer error E38?
Error E38 may be caused by a faulty pressure sensor or drainage blockage.
How do I fix Danby Washer Dryer error E38 myself?
Inspect and clean the drainage path and check the pressure sensor hose for kinks or debris.
How much does it cost to fix error E38?
Professional repairs can range from $80 to $300+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for error E38?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you're unsure about the repair.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty motor speed sensor
  • Wiring issues between the motor and control board
  • Defective motor

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the motor speed sensor. Disconnect the power, access the motor compartment, and check the sensor for damage or disconnection. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check and repair wiring connections. Open the control panel, inspect the wiring harness for loose or damaged wires, and reconnect or replace as needed.

  3. Test and replace the motor if faulty. Use a multimeter to test the motor for continuity. If it fails the test, replace the motor with a new one.

Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Danby Washer Dryer combo Error E38

Community Discussions

stops beeping and displays E38 after 1 hour

The error code E38 likely indicates a problem with the motor or its speed sensor.

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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