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Whirlpool Dryer F22 Error Code: What It Means & How to Fix It

Last verified: June 2026  ·  Applies to: Whirlpool dryers

The 30-second answer

The F22 error means outlet thermistor fault — the exhaust temperature sensor is reading out of range or has failed.

What you'll see when this error appears

No heat or intermittent heatOver-drying or under-dryingF22 displayed mid-cycle

The Whirlpool dryer displays the F22 error and halts the current cycle until the underlying problem is fixed.

Most common causes — in diagnostic order

Check these in order. The first cause accounts for the majority of F22 errors.

Most common

Faulty exhaust thermistor

The thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor — its resistance changes with temperature. When it fails, it reports an out-of-range value that the control board can't interpret, triggering F22.

Cause 2

Loose wiring harness at the thermistor

Vibration can loosen the connector at the thermistor. An intermittent connection reads as an open circuit — same fault signature as a failed thermistor.

Cause 3

Partially blocked exhaust vent

A restricted vent causes exhaust temperature to fluctuate wildly. The thermistor reads real values, but they're erratic enough to trigger an F22 fault in the control board's monitoring logic.

Less common

Control board misinterpreting the signal

Rare. If a known-good thermistor installed on a clean vent still produces F22, the control board's ADC input for the thermistor signal may have failed.

Step-by-step fix

Follow these in order. Stop as soon as the error clears.

  1. Unplug the dryer

    Electrical components — always unplug first.

  2. Locate the exhaust thermistor

    The thermistor is clipped to the exhaust duct inside the dryer, typically accessible by removing the back panel. It's a small disc component with two wires connected by a harness.

  3. Check the wiring harness connection

    Disconnect and firmly reconnect the harness connector at the thermistor. Inspect the connector for corrosion or bent pins.

  4. Test the thermistor resistance

    Disconnect the thermistor wires and measure resistance with a multimeter set to ohms. At room temperature (70°F/21°C), a functional thermistor reads approximately 10,000 ohms (10kΩ). A reading of 0 or infinity (OL) indicates a failed thermistor.

  5. Replace the thermistor

    Unclip the old thermistor from the duct, disconnect the wires, and snap in the replacement. Reconnect the harness. Test with a full dry cycle — F22 should not reappear.

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When to call a technician

Stop and call a professional if:
  • The error returns after replacing the exhaust thermistor
  • You see burned wiring or water inside the control panel
  • The appliance is under warranty — DIY repair may void it
  • You're not comfortable working near electrical components

For warranty service, contact Whirlpool support ↗ or a certified appliance technician.

Frequently asked questions

What does F22 mean on a Whirlpool dryer?
The F22 error on a Whirlpool dryer means outlet thermistor fault — the exhaust temperature sensor is reading out of range or has failed. The most common cause is faulty exhaust thermistor.
How do I fix the F22 error on my Whirlpool dryer?
Unplugging the dryer and checking for obvious blockages. Locate the exhaust thermistor. If that doesn't resolve it, the exhaust thermistor may need to be replaced (~$15–30).
Can I fix the F22 error myself?
Yes — most F22 errors are DIY-fixable in 15–30 minutes. Cleaning filters or replacing the exhaust thermistor doesn't require a technician.
How much does it cost to fix a F22 error?
DIY cost: $15–30 for the exhaust thermistor plus your time. Technician cost: $150–$250 including the service call. Most people fix this themselves in under 30 minutes.

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✓ Last verified: June 2026 ✓ Sources: Whirlpool service documentation, PartSelect repair data ✓ Affiliate disclosure: links marked ↗ may earn a commission at no cost to you