Kenmore Dryer F22 Error: Exhaust Thermistor (Outlet Temperature Sensor) Fault
The kenmore dryer f22 error is a fault signal from the control board — this guide walks through what it means, common causes, and safe diagnostic steps. What Does Kenmore Dryer Error Code F22 Mean? F22 on a Kenmore Elite HE dryer built on the Whirlpool 110.xx platform means the exhaust thermistor — the temperature […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. With a faulty exhaust thermistor, the control board cannot accurately regulate drum temperature. Do not run the dryer with an active F22 — an open thermistor may cause the board to run the heater without temperature feedback, creating an overheating risk.
Can I reset the code?
No. F22 is a sensor circuit fault. A hard reset clears it temporarily, but F22 returns as soon as the control board samples the thermistor and finds an out-of-range reading. The thermistor or its wiring must be repaired.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: F22 returns within one cycle after a hard reset with a clear exhaust duct, Thermistor measures open (OL) or short (near 0 ohms) on a multimeter at room temperature.
Symptoms You May Notice
F22 displayed; dryer stops mid-cycle or will not start a heated cycle
The control board halts heating — and sometimes the entire cycle — when F22 is active because it cannot verify exhaust temperature is within safe limits. The drum may continue to tumble with no heat, or the dryer may abort the cycle entirely.
Clothes take multiple cycles to dry even when no vent blockage is present
If F22 appears intermittently, the control board may reduce or cut heating output during cycles where the sensor reads out of range, resulting in consistently under-dried loads without the code appearing every time.
Dryer runs but heater or gas valve never activates
Because the control board relies on the exhaust thermistor to control heat output, a thermistor reading that is stuck at maximum resistance (open circuit) looks to the board like the dryer is already at maximum temperature — so it never activates the heater.
Clothes come out scorched or smelling burnt after a cycle
When the thermistor under-reports exhaust temperature, the board keeps the heater energized far longer than needed. Loads emerge very hot to the touch and fabrics may carry a singed or burnt odor.
Possible Causes
Failed exhaust thermistor (open or shorted)
The thermistor element has failed, reading either infinite resistance (open) or near-zero resistance (shorted) rather than the 10,000–50,000 ohm range expected at room temperature — the most common hardware cause of F22.
DIY PossibleLoose or corroded thermistor wiring harness connector
The connector at the thermistor or at the control board end of the thermistor circuit has worked loose or corroded, creating an intermittent or permanent open circuit that mimics a failed thermistor.
DIY PossibleExtreme vent restriction causing exhaust temperature to spike
A severely blocked vent can cause exhaust temperatures to exceed the thermistor's measurement range, tripping F22 as a secondary code alongside the underlying airflow problem. Clearing the vent removes F22 in these cases.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Clear the exhaust duct and perform a hard reset
Before assuming the thermistor has failed, confirm the exhaust duct is clear (see AF code procedure). Unplug the Kenmore dryer for 5 minutes, then restore power and run a short timed dry cycle. If F22 clears and the dryer heats normally, a temporary over-temperature event from a partially blocked duct was the cause.
If F22 and AF appear together, resolve the AF (vent blockage) first. F22 often clears on its own once airflow is restored and the thermistor cools to its normal operating range.
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2
Test the exhaust thermistor resistance
Unplug the dryer and locate the exhaust thermistor — on Kenmore Elite front-load models it is clipped to the exhaust duct inside the cabinet, typically behind the front panel or near the blower housing. Disconnect the thermistor connector and measure resistance across its two terminals with a multimeter. At room temperature (70°F / 21°C), a good thermistor reads approximately 10,000–12,000 ohms. Infinite resistance (OL) confirms an open thermistor; near-zero resistance confirms a short — both require thermistor replacement.
Kenmore Elite thermistors are typically priced at from $15 and are among the most straightforward dryer repairs — the thermistor simply clips or screws to the exhaust duct and the connector unplugs.
Tools required
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermistor replacement does not clear F22 — indicating a wiring harness fault or control board input circuit failure
- Wiring harness continuity from thermistor to board reads open on one conductor
- F22 persists with a confirmed new thermistor reading correct resistance at the connector — board input has failed
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