Kenmore Dryer Error Code F-22

The F-22 error code on a Kenmore dryer indicates that the exhaust thermistor circuit is open. The exhaust thermistor is a temperature-sensing component located in the dryer's exhaust path that continuously monitors outgoing air temperature. It works by varying its electrical resistance in response to heat, sending a signal to the control board that allows the dryer to regulate its heating cycle. An open circuit in this thermistor means the control board is receiving no signal at all, which is a distinctly different failure mode from a shorted thermistor and points to a specific set of causes.

When the circuit reads as open, the control board cannot determine whether the dryer is overheating or running at a safe temperature. As a safety response, the dryer triggers the F-22 fault and typically halts operation. The exhaust thermistor itself can fail internally, breaking the conductive path and causing an open reading. However, the wiring harness connecting the thermistor to the control board is an equally common culprit, as a broken wire, corroded terminal, or loose connector can interrupt the circuit just as effectively as a failed sensor.

The recommended starting point for diagnosing this fault is TEST #4a, which walks through the proper procedure for evaluating the exhaust thermistor and its associated wiring. This typically involves disconnecting the thermistor and measuring its resistance with a multimeter to confirm whether the component itself has failed or whether the fault lies in the wiring between the thermistor and the control board. Addressing this code promptly is important because without accurate exhaust temperature monitoring, the dryer's ability to prevent overheating is compromised.