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Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code F13

Upper thermistor temperature too high (stack dryer)

Maytag codesMaytag dryer codes

Upper thermistor temperature too high (stack dryer)

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What F13 means on a Maytag dryer

The F13 error code on a Maytag stack dryer indicates that the upper thermistor is detecting a temperature reading that exceeds the acceptable operating threshold. In a stack dryer configuration, the upper unit contains its own temperature monitoring circuit, and the thermistor serves as the primary sensor responsible for reporting drum air temperature to the control board. When that reported temperature climbs beyond the programmed limit, the control board triggers F13 to protect the unit from heat damage and potential fire hazard.

The upper thermistor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor, meaning its electrical resistance decreases as temperature rises. The control board interprets resistance values within a specific range as normal operating temperatures. When the thermistor reads an abnormally low resistance, the board interprets this as an excessively high temperature and sets the F13 fault. This can result from an actual overheating condition inside the drum cavity or from a failed thermistor that is sending an inaccurate signal.

Common contributors to a genuine overheating condition include restricted airflow from a clogged lint screen, blocked exhaust duct, or a failed blower. A shorted or degraded thermistor can also produce a false high-temperature reading without any actual thermal event. Because this code appears specifically on the upper unit of a stacked pair, the exhaust path and venting for that unit should be inspected independently from the lower unit, as each section maintains its own airflow circuit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F13

  1. 01

    Blocked or restricted exhaust vent

    Wiring / connection

    A clogged lint screen, kinked duct, or obstructed exterior vent cap prevents heat from escaping the upper drum, causing temperatures to spike. Inspect and clear the entire exhaust path from the upper unit to the outside termination point.

  2. 02

    Failed or shorted upper thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can fail internally, producing a resistance value that the control board reads as an extreme temperature even when actual heat levels are normal. Testing the thermistor with a multimeter for resistance drift or a short circuit will confirm this failure.

  3. 03

    Faulty blower or restricted airflow inside the cabinet

    Part replacement

    A worn blower wheel or motor in the upper unit reduces airflow across the heating element, causing heat to build up rapidly. Check for unusual noise from the blower and verify it is spinning freely and moving adequate air volume.

  4. 04

    Wiring fault in the thermistor circuit

    Wiring / connection

    Damaged, pinched, or corroded wiring between the upper thermistor and the control board can create a false low-resistance signal that mimics a high-temperature reading. Inspect the wiring harness and connector terminals at both the thermistor and board for damage or corrosion.

  5. 05

    Control board malfunction

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all wiring check out within spec, the main control board may be misreading the signal due to a component failure on the board itself. This is the least likely cause and should be diagnosed only after all other components have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F13

What does F13 mean on a Maytag dryer?
F13 on a Maytag stack dryer means the control board has detected that the upper thermistor is reporting a temperature above the safe operating limit. This can indicate a real overheating condition caused by restricted airflow, or it can indicate a failed thermistor sending a false signal. The dryer will stop operating to prevent heat damage or a fire hazard. The upper unit's venting and thermistor circuit should be inspected before restarting the dryer.
Can I reset the F13 code and keep using my Maytag dryer?
You can attempt a reset by unplugging the dryer for a few minutes and restoring power, but if the underlying cause is not corrected the code will return. If the code is caused by an actual airflow restriction or overheating condition, continuing to run the dryer without addressing the problem is a fire risk. A reset is only appropriate as a temporary step while you diagnose the root cause.
Is the F13 error on a Maytag dryer a safety concern?
Yes, F13 should be taken seriously because it indicates either a genuine overheating event or a sensor failure that prevents proper temperature monitoring. Both scenarios are safety concerns: actual overheating can lead to component damage or fire, and a failed sensor means the dryer may be running without reliable temperature control. Do not continue operating the dryer until the cause has been identified and repaired.
How do I fix the F13 error on a Maytag stack dryer?
Start by cleaning the lint screen and inspecting the exhaust duct for the upper unit to rule out airflow restriction. If venting is clear, test the upper thermistor with a multimeter to check for a short circuit or resistance reading that falls outside the normal operating range. Also inspect the wiring harness connecting the thermistor to the control board for any damage or corrosion at the connectors. If the thermistor or wiring checks out, a control board fault or blower issue may require further diagnosis.
How much does it cost to repair an F13 error on a Maytag dryer?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Cleaning a blocked vent is typically a low-cost fix you may be able to do yourself. Replacing the upper thermistor generally involves a modest parts cost, typically in the range of $15 to $50 for the sensor, plus labor if you hire a technician. A control board replacement is the most expensive scenario, with parts alone often ranging from $100 to $250 or more depending on the model.

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