Maytag Microwave Error Code E22

E22 means the control board has detected a short circuit in the thermal sensor circuit. The thermal sensor monitors the internal temperature of the microwave cavity, and when the board reads an abnormal low-resistance signal from it, the unit shuts down and displays E22. The fault can be in the sensor itself, the wiring harness, or the PCB assembly.

No. When E22 is active, the microwave has lost reliable thermal sensor feedback, which means the control board cannot monitor internal temperatures accurately. Running the unit in this state risks overheating internal components. Do not attempt to use the microwave until the fault is diagnosed and repaired.

Yes. A disconnected or partially seated connector on the thermal sensor circuit can produce readings the PCB interprets as a short, triggering E22. Before ordering parts, unplug the microwave, locate the thermal sensor connector at the PCB and at the sensor, and firmly reseat both ends. Clear the error and test the unit to see if the fault returns.

Start by unplugging the microwave and checking whether the thermal sensor connector is fully seated at both the sensor and the PCB assembly. If connections are secure, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the thermal sensor at room temperature and compare it to the spec in your service manual. A shorted sensor will read near zero ohms and needs to be replaced. If the sensor tests good, inspect the wiring harness for pinched or burned insulation. Replacing the sensor is a moderately involved repair that requires disassembling the microwave cabinet.

If the thermal sensor is the cause, the part typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on the model, and a technician will add 30 to 60 minutes of labor on top of that. If the PCB assembly is at fault, parts alone can run $80 to $200 or more, which may approach the cost of replacing an older unit. A loose connector costs nothing to fix if you are comfortable working inside the microwave cabinet.