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Error code reference

Whirlpool Dryer Error Code E2

Top Burner Ignitor fault count

Whirlpool codesWhirlpool dryer codes

Top Burner Ignitor fault count — occurs when a gas model dryer receives a 120V on the burner return signal but it does not transition to a 0V return signal within a predefined time.

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
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What E2 means on a Whirlpool dryer

The E2 error code on a Whirlpool gas dryer indicates a Top Burner Ignitor fault condition. Specifically, the control board monitors the voltage on the burner return signal line. Under normal ignition, the system expects the burner return signal to begin at 120V and then transition down to 0V within a predefined time window, confirming that the ignitor has heated sufficiently and the gas valve has opened to sustain a flame. When that transition from 120V to 0V does not occur within the allowed timeframe, the control increments a fault count and logs the E2 code.

This fault points directly to a problem in the ignition circuit of the top burner assembly. The components most involved include the ignitor itself, the radiant flame sensor (also called the radiant sensor or ignitor sensor), the gas valve coils (specifically the holding and booster coils), and the wiring harness connecting these components to the control board. If any of these components fail to complete the circuit transition correctly, the control board will never see the 0V return signal it requires, triggering the fault.

Common root causes include a burned-out or weakened ignitor that draws insufficient current to activate the radiant sensor, a failed radiant sensor that does not close the circuit to the gas valve coils even when the ignitor is glowing, or a gas valve coil set that has failed open. Wiring issues such as loose terminals, corroded connectors, or broken wires in the burner circuit can also prevent the signal transition. In some cases, inadequate gas supply pressure can prevent ignition even when the ignitor and sensor are functioning correctly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E2

  1. 01

    Failed or Weakened Ignitor

    Part replacement

    The ignitor is the most common failure point in this circuit. Over time, ignitors become brittle and either crack completely or degrade to the point where they no longer draw enough current to activate the radiant sensor. Visually inspect for cracks, and measure resistance to check for an open circuit.

  2. 02

    Defective Radiant Flame Sensor

    Part replacement

    The radiant sensor sits next to the ignitor and is designed to close the gas valve circuit once the ignitor reaches the correct temperature. A failed sensor will not close even with a functioning ignitor, preventing the voltage transition the control board is waiting for. Testing requires checking continuity at operating temperature.

  3. 03

    Failed Gas Valve Coils

    Part replacement

    The gas valve relies on a set of coils (booster and holding coils) to open and allow gas flow. If one or more coils fail open, the valve will not open, the burner will not ignite, and the return signal will never drop to 0V. Each coil can be tested individually with a multimeter for continuity.

  4. 04

    Wiring or Connector Fault in the Burner Circuit

    Wiring / connection

    Loose, corroded, or broken wire connections between the control board and the burner assembly components can interrupt the return signal path. Inspect all terminals at the ignitor, sensor, and gas valve coil connectors for corrosion, heat damage, or backing out of the connector housing.

  5. 05

    Insufficient Gas Supply Pressure

    Wiring / connection

    If the gas supply pressure to the dryer is too low, the burner may fail to sustain ignition even when the ignitor and sensor are working correctly. Check that the gas shutoff valve is fully open and verify that other gas appliances in the home are operating normally.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E2

What does E2 mean on a Whirlpool dryer?
The E2 code on a Whirlpool gas dryer indicates a Top Burner Ignitor fault. The control board sends 120V to the burner circuit and expects the return signal to drop to 0V within a set time, confirming successful ignition. When that transition does not happen in time, the fault is logged. This means the dryer will not produce heat until the ignition circuit problem is diagnosed and corrected.
Can I reset the E2 code and keep using my Whirlpool dryer?
Clearing the E2 code by resetting power to the dryer will not fix the underlying problem. The code will return as soon as the dryer attempts to ignite the burner again, because the fault condition in the ignition circuit still exists. A proper repair of the defective component is required before the dryer will heat reliably.
How do I fix the E2 error on a Whirlpool gas dryer?
Start by inspecting the ignitor for visible cracks and testing it for continuity. If the ignitor checks out, test the radiant flame sensor and the gas valve coils with a multimeter. Also inspect the wiring connectors in the burner circuit for corrosion or loose terminals. Replacing the failed component, most often the ignitor or radiant sensor, will typically clear the fault.
Is the E2 error on a Whirlpool dryer a safety concern?
The E2 fault actually indicates that the control system is working as intended by detecting a failed ignition attempt and stopping the process. However, a dryer with a failing ignitor or gas valve issue should be repaired promptly and not bypassed. If you ever smell gas near the dryer, turn off the gas supply immediately and contact a qualified technician before operating the appliance again.
How much does it cost to repair the E2 error on a Whirlpool dryer?
Repair costs depend on which component has failed. An ignitor replacement typically runs in the range of $30 to $80 for the part, while a radiant sensor or gas valve coil kit is generally in the $20 to $60 range. If you hire a technician, labor costs will add to these figures, bringing total repair costs to roughly $100 to $250 depending on your location and the specific parts needed.

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