Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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If your Whirlpool dryer is displaying an error code, it means the appliance has detected a condition that may interrupt drying or affect performance. This guide explains the most common Whirlpool dryer error codes, what they usually mean, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Common Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes

F01 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • A general electronic control fault has been detected.

Try this

  1. Turn the dryer off.
  2. Switch off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and restart.

Call service if

  • The error returns immediately.

F02 — Keypad or User Interface Error

What it usually means

  • The control panel is not responding correctly.

Try this

  1. Power off for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and avoid pressing multiple buttons at once.

Call service if

  • Buttons remain unresponsive.

F03 — Temperature Sensor Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer cannot correctly read internal temperature.

Try this

  1. Restart the dryer.
  2. Run a short timed cycle once.

Call service if

  • The error repeats.

F04 — Heating Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer is not heating as expected.

Try this

  1. Clean the lint filter thoroughly.
  2. Check the exhaust vent for blockages.
  3. Restart and run a normal cycle.

Call service if

  • Clothes remain cold and damp.

F05 — Airflow Restricted

What it usually means

  • Restricted airflow is preventing normal drying.

Try this

  1. Clean lint filter and vent hose.
  2. Ensure the vent hose is not crushed or kinked.

Call service if

  • Drying times remain very long.

F06 — Door Switch Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not being detected as closed.

Try this

  1. Close the door firmly.
  2. Remove laundry caught in the door seal.

Call service if

  • The dryer will not start.

F07 — Motor Error

What it usually means

  • A fault has been detected with the drum motor.

Try this

  1. Reduce load size.
  2. Turn power off for 5 minutes and restart.

Call service if

  • The drum does not rotate.

F08 — Motor Overheating

What it usually means

  • The motor has overheated due to airflow restriction or overload.

Try this

  1. Allow the dryer to cool completely.
  2. Clean lint filters and vents.
  3. Restart with a smaller load.

Call service if

  • The error returns quickly.

F09 — Moisture Sensor Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer cannot correctly detect moisture levels.

Try this

  1. Clean moisture sensor bars inside the drum.
  2. Restart the dryer.

Call service if

  • The dryer stops too early or over-dries.

PF — Power Failure

What it usually means

  • The dryer experienced a power interruption.

Try this

  1. Press Start to resume the cycle.
  2. Restart the dryer if needed.

Call service if

  • The message appears without a recent power outage.

How to Clear a Whirlpool Dryer Error Code

  1. Turn the dryer off.
  2. Switch off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and start a short test cycle.

If the error returns immediately, it usually indicates an active fault.

When to Call Service

  • Heating errors that persist after cleaning vents
  • Motor or drum faults
  • Repeated airflow or overheating warnings
  • Control board errors

FAQ

Can blocked vents cause Whirlpool dryer error codes?

Yes. Restricted airflow is one of the most common causes of Whirlpool dryer errors.

Do Whirlpool dryer error codes vary by model?

Yes. Codes may vary slightly by model and region, but the meanings above apply to most Whirlpool dryers.

Is it safe to keep resetting the dryer?

Occasional resets are fine, but repeated resets without fixing the cause are not recommended.