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Error code reference

Speed Queen Dryer Error Code SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR

Output board sensed temperature greater than 210°F (99°C) while motor is active, indicating a shorted…

Speed Queen codesSpeed Queen dryer codes

Output board sensed temperature greater than 210°F (99°C) while motor is active, indicating a shorted thermistor.

First step from the service manual

Press any cycle selection pad after temperature reading drops below 210°F (99°C) and 15 seconds have elapsed to clear error.

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

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR means on a Speed Queen dryer

The Shorted Thermistor Error on a Speed Queen dryer is triggered when the output board detects a drum or exhaust temperature exceeding 210°F (99°C) while the drive motor is running. The thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature. When the thermistor shorts internally, it sends a false low-resistance signal to the output board, which the board interprets as an abnormally high temperature reading. This causes the control board to flag the error and halt normal operation to prevent potential overheating damage.

A shorted thermistor typically occurs when the component's internal resistance collapses, causing it to report temperatures far outside the normal operating range. However, it is also possible that the temperature reading is genuine, meaning the dryer is actually reaching temperatures above 210°F due to restricted airflow, a failed cycling thermostat, or a stuck heating element relay. Distinguishing between a faulty thermistor and an actual high-temperature condition is a critical part of diagnosis.

The error is self-resetting under specific conditions. Once the sensed temperature drops below 210°F and at least 15 seconds have elapsed, pressing any cycle selection pad will clear the error and allow the dryer to resume normal operation. If the error returns immediately or repeatedly, further diagnosis of the thermistor circuit, wiring connections, and heat-producing components is necessary to find and correct the root cause.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR

  1. 01

    Shorted thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself has failed internally, collapsing its resistance and sending a false high-temperature signal to the output board. Measuring the thermistor's resistance with a multimeter and comparing it to the expected range for a given temperature will confirm this failure.

  2. 02

    Restricted exhaust airflow

    Wiring / connection

    A clogged lint screen, blocked vent duct, or crushed exhaust hose can trap heat inside the drum and cause temperatures to genuinely exceed 210°F. Inspect and clear the entire exhaust path from the dryer to the exterior termination point.

  3. 03

    Failed cycling thermostat

    Part replacement

    The cycling thermostat regulates heat by cycling the heating element on and off. If it fails in the closed position, the heating element runs continuously and can drive temperatures well above normal operating levels.

  4. 04

    Loose or corroded thermistor wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    A poor connection at the thermistor harness connector can create intermittent or incorrect resistance readings that the output board interprets as a shorted condition. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion, bent terminals, or loose fit.

  5. 05

    Stuck heating element relay on the output board

    Part replacement

    If the relay that controls the heating circuit on the output board welds or sticks closed, the heating element receives continuous power regardless of thermostat input. This can cause actual overheating and should be suspected when thermistor and thermostat components test good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR

What does SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR mean on a Speed Queen dryer?
This error means the output board detected a temperature greater than 210°F (99°C) while the drive motor was running, which it associates with a shorted thermistor. The thermistor is a resistive temperature sensor, and when it shorts, its resistance drops in a way that signals an extreme temperature to the control board. The dryer stops normal operation as a protective response. The root cause may be the thermistor itself or an actual overheating condition in the appliance.
Will resetting the dryer clear the SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR?
The error can be cleared by pressing any cycle selection pad, but only after the sensed temperature has dropped below 210°F and at least 15 seconds have passed. Simply unplugging the dryer may not permanently resolve the issue if the underlying cause is still present. If the error returns after clearing, a faulty thermistor, restricted venting, or a failed thermostat needs to be diagnosed and corrected.
Is it safe to keep using my Speed Queen dryer when this error appears?
You should not continue running the dryer until you have identified the cause of the error. If the dryer is genuinely overheating due to restricted airflow or a failed thermostat, operating it could create a fire hazard. If the cause turns out to be only a faulty thermistor giving a false reading, the risk is lower, but that distinction requires hands-on diagnosis before assuming it is safe to proceed.
How much does it cost to fix a SHORTED THERMISTOR ERROR on a Speed Queen dryer?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A replacement thermistor is typically an inexpensive part, often in the range of $10 to $30, and is straightforward to install. If the cycling thermostat or output board relay is at fault, parts costs can range from $20 to $150 or more depending on the component. Adding professional labor will increase the total, generally bringing a service call with parts to somewhere between $100 and $300 depending on the repair needed.
How do I test the thermistor on a Speed Queen dryer?
Disconnect power to the dryer before testing. Locate the thermistor, disconnect its wiring harness, and use a multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms) across the thermistor terminals. A shorted thermistor will show near-zero resistance rather than the expected resistance value for the ambient temperature at the time of testing. If the reading is zero or very close to it, the thermistor has failed and needs to be replaced. Also inspect the connector and wiring for corrosion or damage before condemning the thermistor itself.

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