mypros+
Error code reference

Amana Washer Error Code SH

Thermistor temperature out of range high

Amana codesAmana washer codes

Thermistor temperature out of range high - control goes into this condition if the temperature near the thermistor rises above 125°F.

First step from the service manual

Disconnect electric power, remove front panel, and check for broken, loose or incorrect wiring between thermistor and control.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for SH.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What SH means on a Amana washer

The SH error code indicates the Amana washer control board has detected an out-of-range high temperature reading from the thermistor circuit. Specifically, the control is seeing either a short circuit in the thermistor itself or an actual temperature at the thermistor location exceeding 125°F. The thermistor is a resistive temperature sensor whose resistance value changes predictably with temperature; a short circuit collapses that resistance, sending a signal the control interprets as an extreme high-temperature condition. The control halts operation to prevent potential damage.

For homeowners, the thermistor is a small sensor that tells the washer's brain what temperature the water or internal components are reaching. When this sensor short-circuits or its wiring fails, the control board receives a false or dangerously high reading and stops the machine to protect itself and your laundry. In some cases, the temperature near the thermistor genuinely is above 125°F, which can point to a separate heating or airflow problem rather than a failed sensor.

Before assuming the thermistor itself has failed, wiring between the thermistor and the control board should be inspected first. A pinched, frayed, or incorrectly connected wire can create a short circuit that mimics thermistor failure. This is the first diagnostic step and requires no parts if a loose connector is the culprit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of SH

  1. 01

    Shorted or damaged thermistor wiring

    Wiring / connection

    A pinched, frayed, or incorrectly routed wire between the thermistor and the control board can create a short circuit, producing a falsely high temperature signal. This is the first component to inspect after removing the front panel and disconnecting power.

  2. 02

    Failed thermistor (internal short circuit)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can develop an internal short, causing its resistance to drop to near zero and signaling an extreme high-temperature condition to the control board. If wiring checks out clean, the thermistor component requires replacement.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded thermistor connector

    Wiring / connection

    A connector that has backed out, corroded, or been seated incorrectly can cause erratic or shorted resistance readings at the control. Reseating or cleaning the connector may resolve the code without replacing any parts.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board misreading thermistor signal

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all wiring test within normal resistance specifications but the SH code persists, the control board's thermistor input circuit may have failed, causing it to misinterpret a valid signal as a short or over-temperature condition.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about SH

What does the SH error code mean on an Amana washer?
SH means the control board has detected either a short circuit in the thermistor or a temperature reading near the thermistor above 125°F. The thermistor is the temperature sensor that reports water or component temperature to the control board. When the control sees this out-of-range signal, it shuts down the wash cycle to prevent damage.
How do I fix the SH error code on my Amana washer?
Start by disconnecting power, then remove the front panel and inspect all wiring between the thermistor and the control board for loose connections, pinched wires, or corrosion. Reseat any connectors and look for visible wire damage. If wiring is intact, test the thermistor's resistance with a multimeter and compare it to the specification in your model's service manual. A thermistor reading near zero ohms confirms an internal short and the part needs replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my Amana washer when it shows an SH code?
No, you should not continue running the washer with an active SH code. The code indicates either a malfunctioning temperature sensor or a genuinely high temperature condition, and the control has already halted operation as a protective measure. Running the machine in this state risks damage to the control board, wiring, or other internal components. Resolve the fault before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair an SH error code on an Amana washer?
If the fix is a loose wiring connector, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. A replacement thermistor is generally an inexpensive part, often in the $15 to $40 range depending on the model, and is a manageable DIY repair with basic tools. If the control board is the cause, board replacement is more expensive, typically $100 to $250 for the part alone, and professional installation adds labor cost. Getting the wiring and thermistor inspected first keeps the repair cost low in the majority of cases.
Can a wiring problem cause the SH code instead of a bad thermistor?
Yes, and wiring is the first thing to check specifically because a short in the wiring harness produces the same electrical signal as a shorted thermistor. A wire pinched against the cabinet, a corroded terminal, or a connector seated on the wrong pin can all cause the SH code. Always inspect and test the wiring before purchasing a replacement thermistor to avoid an unnecessary part purchase.

Related Amana washer codes

All Amana washer codes
View all 33 Amana washer codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass