mypros+
Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code 10

No wet clothes

Maytag codesMaytag dryer codes

No wet clothes – sensor bar detects no wet clothes while a sensor dry cycle is running.

First step from the service manual

Check if dryer is running with no wet clothes in sensor dry cycle.

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 10.

  • 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 10 means on a Maytag dryer

Error code 10 on a Maytag dryer indicates that the moisture sensor bar has detected no wet clothes during an active sensor dry cycle. The moisture sensor system works by passing a small electrical current between two metal sensor bars located inside the drum. When wet fabric contacts both bars simultaneously, the current flows through the damp material and the control board registers moisture. If no current is detected at the start of or during the cycle, the control board logs code 10 and may halt or skip the drying cycle entirely.

The most straightforward cause of this code is simply running a sensor dry cycle with an empty drum or with a load that is already dry. However, the code can also appear when the sensor bars are coated with residue from dryer sheets or fabric softener, which creates an insulating film that prevents accurate moisture detection. In this case, the sensor bars physically cannot register the presence of wet fabric even when clothes are present.

Additionally, sensor bar issues such as corrosion, physical damage, or a broken wire connection between the sensor bars and the control board can produce the same result. Before suspecting a component failure, always verify that a wet load is actually inside the drum and that the correct cycle has been selected. If clothes are present and wet but the code persists, inspect and clean the sensor bars as the next step.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 10

  1. 01

    Empty or already-dry load

    Wiring / connection

    The dryer was started on a sensor dry cycle with no clothes inside, or the load was already dry before the cycle began. Verify that a wet load is present in the drum before starting a sensor cycle.

  2. 02

    Residue buildup on sensor bars

    Wiring / connection

    Dryer sheet chemicals and fabric softener can coat the metal sensor bars with an insulating film, preventing moisture detection. Clean the sensor bars with a soft cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove the buildup.

  3. 03

    Wrong cycle selected

    Wiring / connection

    A sensor dry cycle requires moisture sensing, but if a timed dry or air-fluff cycle was intended, the sensor system may behave unexpectedly. Confirm the correct cycle is selected for the load type.

  4. 04

    Damaged or corroded sensor bars

    Part replacement

    Physical corrosion or damage to the sensor bar surfaces can prevent conductivity even when wet fabric is present. Inspect the bars visually for pitting, rust, or cracks that would require bar replacement.

  5. 05

    Faulty wiring between sensor bars and control board

    Part replacement

    A broken or disconnected wire in the circuit connecting the sensor bars to the main control board will cause the board to read no moisture signal. Inspect the wiring harness and connectors at both the sensor and board ends for damage or looseness.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 10

What does 10 mean on a Maytag dryer?
Code 10 on a Maytag dryer means the moisture sensor bars inside the drum detected no wet clothes while a sensor dry cycle was active. The dryer uses two metal bars to measure electrical conductivity through damp fabric, and if no signal is received, this code is triggered. It can indicate an empty drum, a dry load, dirty sensor bars, or a sensor system fault.
How do I fix error code 10 on my Maytag dryer?
Start by confirming that you have a wet load in the drum and that you have selected a sensor dry cycle. If clothes are present and wet, clean the moisture sensor bars inside the drum using a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove any fabric softener or dryer sheet residue. If the code continues after cleaning, inspect the sensor bar wiring and consider replacing the sensor bars if they show visible damage.
Will resetting my Maytag dryer clear the code 10 error?
A reset may clear the code temporarily, but if the underlying cause is not addressed the code will return as soon as the next sensor dry cycle is run. To reset, unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker for one minute, then restore power. Always resolve the root cause, such as loading wet clothes or cleaning the sensor bars, before relying on a reset.
Is error code 10 on a Maytag dryer a safety issue?
Code 10 is not a safety hazard. It is an operational alert indicating that the sensor system cannot detect moisture, which causes the dryer to function improperly for that cycle type. The dryer is not at risk of overheating or fire from this specific code. However, if the sensor system is faulty and the dryer runs longer than needed as a result, checking component condition is still advisable.
How much does it cost to repair a Maytag dryer showing code 10?
If the fix is simply cleaning the sensor bars, the cost is minimal, typically just the price of rubbing alcohol and a few minutes of time. If the sensor bars need replacement, parts generally range from $15 to $50 depending on the model, with additional labor costs if a technician is hired. A wiring repair or control board issue would carry higher costs, typically ranging from $100 to $300 or more for professional service.

Related Maytag dryer codes

All Maytag dryer codes
View all 251 Maytag dryer codes

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

Get Started

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