Whirlpool Dryer Error Code Exhaust thermistor open

It means the control board is reading a resistance greater than 50 kilohms from the exhaust thermistor circuit, which corresponds to a temperature below 18 degrees Fahrenheit. This indicates the thermistor sensor or its wiring circuit is open and not functioning correctly. The dryer sets this code after the condition persists for one minute during normal operation, or immediately during diagnostic testing.

It is not recommended. The exhaust thermistor helps the control board monitor heat levels in the exhaust path, and operating the dryer without reliable temperature feedback can allow unsafe overheating conditions to go undetected. The dryer should be diagnosed and repaired before returning it to regular use.

A power reset may temporarily clear the fault code, but if the underlying problem with the thermistor or its wiring still exists, the code will return within one minute of the dryer entering Run mode. A reset alone is not a fix. The thermistor circuit needs to be inspected and the faulty component repaired or replaced to resolve the error permanently.

A knowledgeable DIYer can perform the basic diagnostics, including inspecting the wiring harness, cleaning or reseating the thermistor connector, and testing the thermistor's resistance with a multimeter. If the thermistor itself has failed, replacing it is a straightforward repair on most Whirlpool dryer models. If the control board is at fault, the repair is more involved and may be better handled by a technician.

If the thermistor itself is the cause, the part typically costs between $15 and $40, making it one of the more affordable dryer repairs. Professional labor for a thermistor replacement generally ranges from $80 to $150 depending on location and service provider. If the control board is the faulty component, total repair costs including the part and labor can range from $200 to $400 or more.