Dryer Error Codes Explained
Dryer error codes are the machine's way of telling you specifically what's wrong — they dramatically narrow the diagnosis. The most important codes to know: LG's d80/d90/d95 (vent blockage — fire risk), Samsung's tE1/tE2/tE3 (thermistor failures — no heat), Samsung HE (heating element), and Whirlpool L2 (voltage problem). This guide covers all major codes across LG, Samsung, Whirlpool/Maytag, and Bosch.
How to read this guide
Find your brand below. Each code includes what it means and what to do. For codes that indicate a failed component rather than a user-serviceable issue (thermistor, control board, heating element), a technician with a multimeter will confirm the diagnosis before ordering parts — don't replace components based on a code alone without testing.
LG Dryer Error Codes
LG repair →Flow-sense: 80% vent blockage
Clear the lint trap, inspect and clean the full exhaust duct run, check the exterior vent cap. Do not ignore — d80 means the dryer is significantly overheating.
Flow-sense: 90% vent blockage
Same as d80 but more urgent. Near-complete vent restriction — fire risk increases significantly. Schedule professional vent cleaning immediately.
Flow-sense: 95% vent blockage
Critical. LG will shut off heat at this level as a safety measure. Do not run the dryer until the vent is fully cleared. Professional vent cleaning required.
Thermistor short circuit
The exhaust thermistor is shorted. Component must be replaced. A technician will test with a multimeter to confirm before ordering.
Thermistor open circuit
The exhaust thermistor circuit is open (disconnected or failed open). Same resolution as tS — thermistor replacement.
Power supply issue
Voltage irregularity detected. Check that the dryer is on a dedicated 240V circuit with no other loads. If the circuit is clean, the control board may be at fault.
Samsung Dryer Error Codes
Samsung repair →Main thermistor fault (short or open)
The primary temperature sensor has failed. Test with multimeter — replace if out of spec. See Samsung dryer not heating guide.
Exhaust thermistor fault
Exhaust temperature sensor failure. Same resolution as tE1 — thermistor replacement specific to the exhaust probe.
Drum thermistor fault
Drum temperature sensor failure. Requires thermistor replacement at the drum location — slightly different access than tE1/tE2.
Heating element failure / high temperature
On electric models: the heating element has failed or the high-limit thermostat tripped. Check the element with a multimeter. Also check for vent restriction.
Frequency error (voltage issue)
The dryer is detecting a frequency/voltage problem in its power supply. Check the outlet and circuit breaker. If those are normal, the main control board may be at fault.
Button error (stuck button)
A control panel button is stuck or the membrane is shorted. Try cycling power; if it persists, the control panel needs replacement.
EEPROM error (control board memory)
Control board memory error. Try a power cycle (unplug for 5 minutes). If the error persists, the main control board requires replacement.
Whirlpool & Maytag Dryer Error Codes
Whirlpool & Maytag repair →Power failure
The dryer detected a power interruption mid-cycle. Press Start to resume. If this occurs without an actual power outage, the control board may have a fault.
Low voltage on L2 leg of 240V supply
One leg of the 240V circuit is below spec. Check the circuit breaker (reset if tripped, replace if breaker is weak). If the breaker is fine, an electrician should check the outlet wiring.
Various component fault codes
Whirlpool and Maytag use F/E code pairs on newer models. The specific combination indicates the failing component. A technician with model-specific documentation can decode precisely — there are too many combinations to list here.
Airflow restriction detected
Similar to LG's flow-sense, newer Whirlpool/Maytag models report restricted airflow directly. Clear the lint trap, inspect the vent run, and check the exterior cap.
Bosch Dryer Error Codes
Bosch repair →Condensate drain / filter clogged (ventless models)
The condenser filter needs cleaning. On Bosch ventless condensation dryers, the condenser at the bottom of the machine must be removed and rinsed. Consult the owner's manual for access.
Door latch error
The door is not latching properly or the door switch has failed. Inspect the latch mechanism and door seal. If the door closes fully, the switch requires testing.
Motor fault
Motor has tripped its thermal overload or has failed. Do not continue to run the dryer. Requires professional service.
Temperature sensor fault
NTC temperature sensor failure. Similar to LG and Samsung thermistor codes — sensor requires testing and replacement.
A note on LG flow-sense codes specifically
LG's d80/d90/d95 codes deserve special attention because they indicate a fire risk condition, not just a performance issue. These codes don't mean the dryer is broken — they mean the exhaust vent system is dangerously restricted and the dryer is overheating as a result.
Do not ignore a d80, d90, or d95 code and continue running the dryer normally. Clear the full vent path — from the lint trap through to the exterior termination — before resuming use. If the code returns after vent cleaning, the sensor itself may need testing.
My dryer shows a code I don't see here
Dryer manufacturers update their code sets with each new platform generation. If your code isn't listed above, the model-specific service manual (available from the manufacturer's support site or appliance parts retailers) will have the complete code list. A technician can also pull live diagnostic data from many modern dryers that goes beyond what the display shows.
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