Whirlpool Oven Error Code 22

Error code 22 on a Whirlpool oven means the lower oven temperature sensor has been detected as shorted. The control board monitors the sensor's resistance to regulate oven temperature, and a short causes the resistance to drop to an abnormal level. This prevents accurate temperature measurement and triggers the fault code to protect the oven from unsafe operation.

It is not recommended to operate the oven while error code 22 is active. A shorted temperature sensor means the control board cannot accurately read the oven temperature, which can result in the oven overheating or failing to regulate heat properly. Continued use under these conditions could damage food, the oven itself, or create a safety hazard.

Unplugging the oven for a few minutes may temporarily clear the code from the display, but the fault will return as soon as the control board reads the shorted sensor again. A reset does not repair the underlying electrical problem. The sensor and wiring harness must be physically inspected and repaired or replaced to resolve the code permanently.

Yes, a confident DIYer can diagnose and repair this fault with a multimeter and basic hand tools. Start by unplugging the range, disconnecting the lower oven sensor from the wiring harness, and measuring resistance across the sensor terminals and from each terminal to the sensor casing. If the sensor is shorted, replacing it is a straightforward repair that typically involves removing one or two mounting screws inside the oven cavity and swapping the connector.

If the lower oven temperature sensor is the cause, replacement sensors typically cost between $20 and $60 depending on the specific model. If you hire a technician, labor charges can add $75 to $150 or more to the total repair cost. If the wiring harness is damaged, parts and labor costs may be somewhat higher. Control board replacement, if needed, is the most expensive outcome and can range from $150 to $350 or more for parts alone.