Maytag Dryer Error Code F:28

F:28 indicates that the moisture sensor strip circuit is open, meaning the control board is not receiving a signal from the sensor bars inside the drum. This code only appears during the dryer's Diagnostic Test Mode, not during a standard drying cycle. The moisture sensor system is responsible for detecting how wet clothes are so the dryer can automatically end the cycle at the right time. Diagnosis begins with TEST #5 to isolate the specific point of failure.

Start by cleaning the two metal sensor bars inside the drum with rubbing alcohol to remove any fabric softener or dryer sheet buildup, as this is the most common cause. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, inspect the wiring harness from the sensor bars to the control board for breaks, loose connectors, or damaged terminals. If the sensor bars are visibly cracked or corroded, replacing the moisture sensor strip assembly is the next step. Persistent faults after those checks may point to a control board issue.

If the fix is simply cleaning the sensor bars, there is no parts cost and minimal time involved. Replacing a moisture sensor strip assembly typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part. If a control board replacement is needed, parts alone can range from $100 to $250 or more, with additional labor costs if a technician is hired.

Resetting the dryer will clear the code from the display, but it will return the next time Diagnostic Test Mode is run if the underlying problem has not been corrected. Because F:28 only appears during diagnostics, a reset will not address the root cause. The sensor bars, wiring, and connectors should be inspected and repaired before relying on the dryer's automatic drying cycles.

The dryer will typically still run with a faulty moisture sensor, but it will not be able to automatically detect when clothes are dry. This means timed dry cycles can still be used, but automatic moisture-sensing cycles may run too long or too short. There is no immediate safety hazard from the sensor fault itself, but running the dryer unattended for extended periods on timed cycles is generally not recommended.