FixByModel
F22

Whirlpool F22: Outlet thermistor open — resistance too high

F22 means the control reads the exhaust (outlet) thermistor as open or abnormally high resistance, so it cannot sense drum temperature. The related F23 code is the same sensor reading shorted (too low).

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Failed or out-of-spec outlet thermistor
  2. Broken wire or damaged harness to the thermistor
  3. Loose or corroded thermistor connector
  4. Lint buildup affecting the sensor housing
  5. Faulty main control board (less common)
The heat circuit — check in this order
1Thermal fuse
2Heating element
3Cycling thermostat
4Thermistor
5Control board

Schematic illustration of a typical dryer — not your exact model.

Before you start — unplug the dryer, and on a gas model shut off the gas supply. Let it cool first — the drum, heater and exhaust can be hot. If a step involves the heating element, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Disconnect powerUnplug the dryer or trip the breaker before opening the cabinet to reach the thermistor.
2Locate the thermistorFind the outlet thermistor on the blower housing or exhaust duct area.
3Check the wiringInspect the harness and connector for breaks, corrosion, or looseness and reseat it.
4Test resistanceMeter the thermistor; a good one reads roughly 10k ohms near room temperature, and open/very high means replace it.
5Replace the sensorSwap in a new outlet thermistor if it tests open or out of range.
6Verify heatReassemble, run a heated cycle, and confirm the code stays clear.

Still showing F22?

If you’ve worked through every step and F22 keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Whirlpool dryers. Whirlpool Duet and other numbered-code HE dryers; F22 = outlet thermistor open, F23 = outlet thermistor shorted.

FAQ

What does Whirlpool F22 mean?

Outlet thermistor open — resistance too high. F22 means the control reads the exhaust (outlet) thermistor as open or abnormally high resistance, so it cannot sense drum temperature. The related F23 code is the same sensor reading shorted (too low).

What causes Whirlpool F22?

The most likely cause is failed or out-of-spec outlet thermistor. Other causes include Broken wire or damaged harness to the thermistor; Loose or corroded thermistor connector; Lint buildup affecting the sensor housing; Faulty main control board (less common).

Can I fix Whirlpool F22 myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.