Whirlpool Dryer F22 Error — Thermistor Fault

What it means

Whirlpool dryer F22 error means the outlet thermistor has failed or is reading outside its expected range.
The dryer stops to prevent uncontrolled overheating — replace the thermistor to resolve F22.

Affected Models

Whirlpool Electric Dryer
Whirlpool Gas Dryer
Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer
Whirlpool WED Series

Common Causes

Failed thermistor (temperature sensor)
Wiring harness to the thermistor loose or damaged
Lint coating the thermistor probe reducing accuracy
Control board fault misreading thermistor signal

How to Fix It

Unplug the dryer and clean the lint filter and vent.

Lint buildup can coat the thermistor and cause false temperature readings.
Clean the lint trap and exhaust duct before assuming the thermistor itself has failed.
Locate the outlet thermistor.

On most Whirlpool dryers the outlet thermistor is clipped to the exhaust duct near the back panel.
Consult your model's diagram for the exact location — it is a small two-wire component.
Test the thermistor with a multimeter.

At room temperature (21°C / 70°F) the thermistor should read approximately 10,000–12,000 ohms.
A reading of zero, open circuit, or far outside this range confirms the thermistor has failed.
Replace the thermistor.

Thermistors for Whirlpool dryers are an inexpensive part.
Disconnect the two wires, unclip the old thermistor, and install the new one.
Reconnect the wires and run a test cycle to confirm F22 is cleared.

When to Call a Professional

The thermistor is typically accessible after removing the back panel on most Whirlpool dryers.
If you are not comfortable with appliance disassembly, a technician can replace it quickly at low cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bypass the thermistor to run my Whirlpool dryer while waiting for the part?

No — do not bypass the thermistor. It monitors exhaust temperature to prevent the dryer from overheating. Running without a working thermistor is a fire risk. Order the replacement part and wait.

Whirlpool dryer shows F22 and also takes very long to dry — are these related?

They can be. A faulty thermistor may cause the dryer to run at lower-than-normal temperatures to stay within what it thinks is a safe range, resulting in poor drying performance alongside the F22 error.