Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes: Full Guide

Whirlpool dryers with electronic controls display error codes when the control board detects something outside normal operating parameters. These codes give you and your technician a precise starting point for diagnosis --- often saving significant time and money. Here's a comprehensive guide to Whirlpool dryer error codes.

How to Access Error Codes

On most Whirlpool dryers with digital displays, error codes appear automatically when a fault is detected. For models with a cycle selector dial, you can often enter diagnostic mode by rotating the dial. Check your model's use and care guide for the exact entry sequence. As always, try a power reset first: unplug the dryer for 60 seconds, then restore power.

Common Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes

AF --- Restricted Airflow

The exhaust airflow is restricted. This is one of the most common Whirlpool dryer codes and is almost always caused by a clogged lint screen, kinked or blocked exhaust duct, or a vent cap that isn't opening properly.

Fix: clean the lint screen, inspect the duct for kinks, and check the outside vent cap. If the code returns after cleaning, have the full duct run professionally cleaned.

F01 --- Main Electronic Control Board Fault

The main control board has detected an internal fault. Try a power reset --- if the code persists, the control board likely needs replacement. This is a technician repair.

F02 --- Keypad / User Interface Fault

One or more buttons on the control panel are stuck, damaged, or not responding. Check for anything pressing against the panel. If no physical obstruction exists, the user interface board needs replacement.

F22 --- Outlet Thermistor Fault

The exhaust air temperature sensor (thermistor) is reporting a reading outside the expected range, or the sensor has failed completely. The dryer may not heat correctly or may shut off prematurely. Thermistor replacement is a relatively simple repair.

F23 --- Outlet Thermistor High Temperature

The exhaust thermistor is reading an abnormally high temperature. This usually indicates restricted airflow --- check the vent system first. If airflow is clear, the thermistor itself may be faulty.

F26 --- Motor Drive Fault

The motor control circuit has detected a fault. The drum may not spin at all, or may run erratically. This can indicate a failing motor, a motor control board issue, or a wiring problem.

F28 --- Moisture Sensor Fault

The moisture sensor bars inside the drum are not reading correctly. Auto-dry cycles rely on the moisture sensor to know when clothes are dry --- when it fails, cycles may run too long or end too early.

Fix: first clean the moisture sensor bars (two metal strips inside the drum) with fine steel wool or a cotton ball dampened with rubbing alcohol. Dryer sheet residue frequently coats the sensor bars and triggers this code.

F29 --- Moisture Sensor Shorted

The moisture sensor circuit is detecting a short. If cleaning the sensor bars doesn't resolve the code, the sensor wiring or the sensor assembly itself needs replacement.

F30 --- Restricted Airflow Detected at High Temperature

Similar to AF, but detected under high-temperature conditions, indicating a more severe airflow restriction. Address the vent system immediately --- this code represents a fire risk if ignored.

PF --- Power Failure

The dryer detected a power interruption during a cycle. This is not an error requiring repair --- it simply means the dryer lost power mid-cycle. Press Start to resume, or select a new cycle. Check that the dryer's power cord is fully plugged in and the breaker hasn't tripped.