AF — Restricted Air Flow
Air Flow restriction detected. The dryer senses low exhaust velocity from the blower, usually due to a clogged lint screen, filter, or vent duct.
- Keep using it?
- Yes, with caution
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Verified against
- amana.com ↗
How to fix it
- Clean the lint screen thoroughly — even if it looks clean, run water through it to check for fabric softener residue.
- Disconnect the transition duct and inspect for lint clogs.
- Brush out the full exhaust run from dryer to exterior hood.
- Verify the exterior vent flap opens freely when the dryer runs.
- Replace flexible foil duct with smooth rigid metal duct, keeping total run under 25 ft.
- Open the dryer and inspect the blower wheel for obstructions or damage.
Why it happens
Typical signs: AF on display · Clothes take multiple cycles to dry · Dryer cabinet hot to the touch · Cycle times automatically extend
- Clogged lint screen Lint buildup on the screen restricts airflow — clean every load.
- Blocked exhaust vent Lint accumulation in the duct or exterior vent hood is the most common AF cause.
- Crushed or kinked transition hose Foil/vinyl ducts compress behind the dryer.
- Failed exterior vent hood flap Stuck-shut flap or bird/rodent nest in the exit cap.
- Blower wheel obstruction Lint slug or broken blower wheel inside the housing.
Parts you may need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
More Amana dryer codes
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: amana.com.