Speed Queen Washer Error Code EI09: Infra-Red CRC-16 Error
EI09 is a CRC-16 error on the infra-red link of a Quantum washer: the check number sent with the data did not match, so the control threw the message away. It points at a garbled transmission, not at the wash. Line the device up, hold still, and call us if EI09 returns.
Low: it affects only the infra-red link, and the washer keeps running.
- Code
- EI09
- Maker
- Speed Queen
- Equipment
- Washers
- Applies to
- Quantum frontload (FLW1535C family) electronic control; Quantum topload (TLW13C family) electronic control
What does Speed Queen error code EI09 mean?
Every message sent to a Quantum washer through the infra-red window carries a CRC-16, a short check number worked out from the data itself. The control receives the message, works out the same number from what it actually got, and compares the two. If they differ, something altered the data on the way, and the control discards the message and shows EI09 rather than act on bad information. That makes EI09 a quality-of-signal code. It does not report a wash, water or drum condition. The usual causes are physical: the device moved during the transfer, bright light or reflections at the window scrambled the signal, or a dirty window blurred it. The manual also lists an external device that sends corrupted data. A single occurrence is normal during awkward transfers; a code that returns every time points to the window or the device.
Affected models and control systems
Quantum frontload (FLW1535C family) and Quantum topload (TLW13C family) washers, infra-red window on the control.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- EI09 shows after a transfer that seemed to go through
- The same transfer works after the device is steadied
- The washer's cycles are unaffected
Possible causes
Listed in Speed Queen's documentation
- An external device that moved during the infra-red transfer
- Bright light or reflections at the control window
- A dirty window that scrambles the infra-red signal
- An external device that sends corrupted data
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code EI09 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Glossy tape or a sticker near the window reflecting the beam back at the sender
- A device case or screen protector partly covering its infra-red emitter
Safe checks before calling for service
- Line up the external device with the control and try the transfer once more.
- Hold still from start to finish.
- Clean the window, and shade it if sunlight hits it.
- When EI09 returns, call us and we will set up a time to look at it.
How a technician diagnoses error code EI09
- Read the code and note the setting that was being sent when it appeared.
- Clean the window and reduce ambient light at the control.
- Repeat the transfer with the device braced at a fixed distance.
- Try a second known-good device to separate a bad sender from a bad receiver.
- Inspect the control window and its mounting for damage.
- Replace the control only after good devices still produce the CRC-16 error.
- Separating a corrupted sender from a damaged receiver requires known-good test equipment.
- The receiving circuit is on the control board, with live supply behind the panel.
- Settings that are reloaded must come from the machine's own data.
How error code EI09 differs from similar codes
EI09 compares a check number and finds a mismatch. EI0A on frontloads reports a framing error, where the bits arrive but are not grouped correctly.
Technical reference
- Document
- Commercial Frontload Washers Troubleshooting FLW1535C, Part No. 803402R2, March 2016, Section 4 Table 3 (pp. 18-20)
- Edition
- Part No. 803402R2, March 2016
- Models / control
- Quantum frontload (FLW1535C family) electronic control; Quantum topload (TLW13C family) electronic control
- Section
- Section 4 Electronic Control Troubleshooting - 8. Error Code Listing, Table 3, printed pp. 18-20 (PDF pp. 20-22)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Speed Queen washer error codes
What is a CRC-16?
It is a check number sent with the data. If it does not match what the control worked out, the message is discarded.
Can sunlight really cause EI09?
Bright light and reflections at the window are listed in the manual as causes, so shading the control is a fair first test.
Does EI09 mean the washer is damaged?
Not on its own. It describes the quality of one transmission.
Need help with Speed Queen error code EI09?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.