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Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code 01

Thermistor short sensed

Maytag codesMaytag dryer codes

Thermistor short sensed — thermistor resistance is very low, with temperature greater than 200°F for 2 minutes (175°F on MDE/MDG6800 and MDG5500).

First step from the service manual

Check for clogged lint screen, restricted vent system, or failed thermistor.

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

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What 01 means on a Maytag dryer

Error code 01 on a Maytag dryer indicates a thermistor short condition. The control board has detected that the thermistor's resistance has dropped to an abnormally low level, which corresponds to a sensed temperature exceeding 200°F for a continuous period of 2 minutes. On MDE/MDG6800 and MDG5500 model series, the threshold is slightly lower at 175°F. The thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor located in the dryer's airflow path, and under normal operating conditions its resistance decreases as temperature rises in a predictable, gradual curve. When resistance drops sharply and quickly, the control interprets this as either extreme overheating or a failed sensor.

The two primary causes behind this code split into an airflow problem or a component failure. Restricted airflow caused by a clogged lint screen or blocked exhaust vent traps heat inside the drum, causing actual temperatures to spike well beyond normal operating range. This is the most common real-world trigger. In contrast, a shorted thermistor will generate this fault even when airflow is perfectly adequate, because the component itself is sending a false low-resistance signal to the control board.

Diagnosing this code correctly requires checking both possibilities before replacing parts. Start by clearing the lint screen and inspecting the full vent run for obstructions, kinks, or crushed ducting. If airflow is unrestricted and the error persists, the thermistor itself should be tested with a multimeter. A shorted thermistor will show near-zero resistance at room temperature, confirming component failure and the need for replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 01

  1. 01

    Clogged or restricted exhaust vent

    Wiring / connection

    A blocked dryer vent prevents hot air from escaping, causing internal temperatures to rise sharply and trigger this fault. Inspect the full length of the vent duct from the dryer to the exterior for lint buildup, kinks, crushed sections, or a blocked exterior hood.

  2. 02

    Clogged lint screen

    Wiring / connection

    A heavily loaded lint screen restricts airflow through the drum, which can cause heat to accumulate rapidly during a cycle. Remove and clean the lint screen, and check the lint screen housing for any buildup that may be blocking the opening.

  3. 03

    Failed thermistor (shorted)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can fail in a shorted state, sending a near-zero resistance signal to the control board regardless of actual temperature. Testing with a multimeter at room temperature will show abnormally low or zero resistance if the component has failed.

  4. 04

    Excessive drying load or cycle settings

    Wiring / connection

    Oversized or very dense loads combined with high heat settings can contribute to elevated drum temperatures, especially if vent airflow is already partially restricted. This is rarely the sole cause but can push borderline airflow issues over the fault threshold.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the main control board may misinterpret thermistor signals or develop a fault in the sensor input circuit, triggering error code 01 even when the thermistor and airflow are normal. This should only be considered after the thermistor and airflow system have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 01

What does 01 mean on a Maytag dryer?
Error code 01 on a Maytag dryer means the control board has detected a thermistor short condition, where the thermistor's resistance has dropped very low and the sensed temperature has exceeded 200°F for 2 minutes (or 175°F on MDE/MDG6800 and MDG5500 models). This indicates either a real overheating event caused by restricted airflow or a failed thermistor sending a false signal. The dryer will stop operating to prevent damage or a safety hazard. Both the ventilation system and the thermistor itself need to be evaluated.
How do I fix error code 01 on my Maytag dryer?
Start by cleaning the lint screen thoroughly and inspecting the entire exhaust vent duct for blockages, kinks, or crushed sections. If the vent system is clear and unobstructed, use a multimeter to test the thermistor's resistance at room temperature. A reading near zero ohms confirms a shorted thermistor that needs to be replaced. If both the vent and the thermistor check out, the control board may require further inspection.
Is it safe to run my Maytag dryer when error code 01 is showing?
No, you should not continue running the dryer until the cause of error code 01 is resolved. This code indicates a high-temperature condition that could pose a fire risk, particularly if the root cause is a blocked vent or lint screen. The dryer's control system stops operation specifically to prevent heat-related damage or hazards. Address the airflow and thermistor issues before resuming use.
Will resetting my Maytag dryer clear error code 01?
Resetting the dryer by unplugging it for a few minutes may temporarily clear the fault display, but the error will return if the underlying cause has not been corrected. If restricted airflow is causing real overheating, the code will reappear quickly once the dryer runs again. A shorted thermistor will also continue to trigger the fault on every cycle. Resetting without diagnosing and fixing the problem is not a long-term solution.
How much does it cost to fix error code 01 on a Maytag dryer?
If the issue is simply a clogged lint screen or accessible vent blockage, the fix is free aside from any vent cleaning tools you may need. Professional vent cleaning services typically range from $80 to $175 depending on duct length and accessibility. If a thermistor replacement is needed, the part itself generally costs between $10 and $40, with professional labor adding $75 to $150. Control board replacement, if required, is significantly more expensive and can range from $150 to $350 or more for parts and labor.

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