Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes
Below are the most common Whirlpool dryer error codes (also applies to Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, JennAir). Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.
Safety Warning
6 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.
Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes
Whirlpool Code F01: Main control board failure
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- Power surge or electrical spike damaged the control board
- Defective thermistor sending incorrect signals
- Faulty door switch
- Failed main electronic control board
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and restart — this may clear a transient error.
- Check the door switch — open and close the door firmly several times to ensure it clicks.
- If the dryer tripped a breaker, reset the breaker and test.
Call a professional when: The code returns after a power reset — the main control board or thermistor likely needs professional replacement.
Whirlpool Code AF: Restricted airflow — exhaust vent blockage detected
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- Lint buildup in the exhaust vent duct
- Crushed or kinked vent hose behind the dryer
- Bird nest or debris blocking the exterior vent hood
- Vent run is too long or has too many turns
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Clean the lint screen thoroughly — wash it with warm water and a brush if dryer sheets have left a residue film.
- Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and the wall, and clean it out with a vent brush or vacuum.
- Go outside and check the exterior vent hood for blockages (lint, bird nests, debris).
- Ensure the vent hose is not crushed or kinked behind the dryer.
Call a professional when: You have cleaned accessible venting but the code persists — you may need professional vent cleaning for long runs or venting routed through the attic or walls.
Whirlpool Code L2: Low voltage — power supply voltage error detected
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- One leg of the 240V circuit is missing (tripped breaker or blown fuse)
- Loose or corroded power cord connections at the terminal block
- Faulty wall outlet not delivering full 240V
- Power cord not fully plugged in
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Check your electrical panel — the dryer uses a double-pole breaker. If one side is tripped, turn it fully OFF then back ON.
- Ensure the dryer power cord is fully inserted into the wall outlet.
- Unplug the dryer and inspect the power cord prongs for damage or burn marks.
- Test the outlet with another 240V appliance if available, or use a multimeter.
Call a professional when: The breaker keeps tripping or the outlet shows burn marks — you need an electrician to inspect the circuit and outlet.
Whirlpool Code F22: Exhaust thermistor failure — outlet temperature sensor fault
Medium UrgencyCommon Causes
- Defective exhaust thermistor (temperature sensor)
- Loose or corroded wiring at the thermistor or control board
- Restricted airflow causing abnormal temperature readings
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes and restart — a transient sensor glitch may clear.
- Clean the lint screen and check the exhaust vent for blockages, as restricted airflow can affect sensor readings.
- If accessible, check the wire connections at the thermistor for loose or corroded contacts.
Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset and vent cleaning — the exhaust thermistor needs to be tested with a multimeter and likely replaced.
Whirlpool Code F23: Exhaust thermistor failure — outlet temperature sensor shorted
Medium UrgencyCommon Causes
- Shorted exhaust thermistor
- Damaged wiring in the thermistor circuit
- Water or moisture intrusion on the sensor
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes and restart to clear a transient error.
- Clean the lint screen and exhaust vent thoroughly.
- Check for any visible moisture near the sensor area inside the dryer.
Call a professional when: The code returns after resetting — the thermistor is likely shorted and needs professional replacement.
Whirlpool Code F26: Drive motor failure
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- Failed drive motor
- Jammed drum (foreign object or broken belt preventing rotation)
- Faulty motor relay on the control board
- Loose wiring at the motor connection
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer, open the door, and try to rotate the drum by hand. If it does not turn freely, something may be jamming it.
- Check for clothing or objects caught between the drum and the housing.
- Unplug for 5 minutes and retry — a power reset may clear a transient error.
Call a professional when: The drum turns freely by hand but the motor will not run, or the drum is completely stuck — the drive motor or control board needs professional diagnosis.
Whirlpool Code F28: Moisture sensor failure
Medium UrgencyCommon Causes
- Defective moisture sensor bars inside the drum
- Dryer sheet residue coating the sensor bars
- Loose wiring at the moisture sensor or control board
- Failed main control board
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Clean the moisture sensor bars (two metal strips inside the drum near the lint screen) with rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth to remove dryer sheet residue.
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and test.
- Run a timed dry cycle to bypass the sensor and test if the dryer otherwise operates.
Call a professional when: Cleaning the sensor bars does not resolve the issue — the sensor or main control board needs professional testing and replacement.
Whirlpool Code E3: Restricted airflow — high exhaust temperature detected
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- Lint buildup in the vent system
- Too many turns in the vent piping
- Crushed vent hose
- Exterior vent hood blocked
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Clean the lint screen before every load.
- Disconnect the vent hose and clean the full length with a dryer vent brush kit.
- Check the exterior vent hood — remove any lint, debris, or bird nests blocking airflow.
- Ensure the vent hose is not crushed or kinked behind the dryer.
Call a professional when: You have cleaned all accessible venting but the code persists — you likely need professional vent cleaning or the vent run may be too long and need rerouting.
Whirlpool Code E1: Thermistor open — inlet temperature sensor circuit failure
Medium UrgencyCommon Causes
- Defective inlet thermistor
- Loose or broken wiring at the thermistor connection
- Failed control board
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes to reset the control board.
- If accessible, check the thermistor wire connections for loose or corroded contacts.
- Restart the dryer — if the code clears, monitor for recurrence.
Call a professional when: The code returns after a reset — the thermistor needs to be tested with a multimeter and likely replaced.
Whirlpool Code E2: Thermistor shorted — temperature sensor reading abnormally
High UrgencyCommon Causes
- Shorted thermistor sensor
- Damaged wiring in the temperature sensor circuit
- Control board fault
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes to reset.
- Check the vent system for blockages — restricted airflow can cause abnormal temperature readings.
- Restart and test with a timed-dry cycle.
Call a professional when: The code persists — the thermistor is shorted and needs professional replacement. Do not continue running the dryer as it may overheat.
Need Whirlpool Repair in Central Texas?
Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for Whirlpool , Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, JennAir, and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.
Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.
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