Maytag · Dryer Serious

F23 — Exhaust Thermistor Shorted

The control detects the exhaust (outlet) thermistor reading a very low resistance — a shorted condition. (The open-circuit condition on this sensor is the separate code F22.) The dryer will not heat.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Moderate

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Locate the exhaust thermistor on the blower housing and inspect the connector and wiring for chafing, pinching, or moisture.
  3. Measure thermistor resistance — roughly 10 kΩ at room temperature is normal; a very low reading (near 0 ohms) confirms a short.
  4. Replace the thermistor if it reads shorted.
  5. If the thermistor is good, check the harness from the thermistor to the ACU for a pinched wire touching bare metal.
  6. Reassemble, restore power, and run a heated cycle to verify.

Why it happens

Typical signs: F23 on display · No heat during cycle · Dryer stops shortly after starting · Clothes still damp

  • Shorted exhaust thermistor An internal short in the thermistor element makes it read near-zero resistance.
  • Pinched or chafed sensor wire touching bare metal Bare wire contacting the cabinet or another wire creates a short.
  • Moisture or corrosion at the thermistor connector Condensation or lint buildup shorts the connector pins.
  • Failed ACU input circuit Rare — a board failure on the thermistor input reads it as shorted.

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.

  • Maytag dryer exhaust thermistor Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Maytag dryer codes

AF AF — Airflow Restricted E1 E1 — Thermistor Open Circuit (Generic) E2 E2 — Thermistor Shorted F01 F01 — Main Control Board Fault F02 F02 — Keypad / User Interface Stuck Key F22 F22 — Outlet Thermistor Fault

All Maytag codes → All dryer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the F23 code mean on a Maytag dryer?

The control detects the exhaust (outlet) thermistor reading a very low resistance — a shorted condition. (The open-circuit condition on this sensor is the separate code F22.) The dryer will not heat.

What causes the F23 code on a Maytag dryer?

Shorted exhaust thermistor: An internal short in the thermistor element makes it read near-zero resistance. Pinched or chafed sensor wire touching bare metal: Bare wire contacting the cabinet or another wire creates a short. Moisture or corrosion at the thermistor connector: Condensation or lint buildup shorts the connector pins.

Is it safe to keep using a Maytag dryer with a F23 error?

Limited use only. This is rated a serious-severity fault.

How do I fix F23 on a Maytag dryer?

Unplug the dryer. Locate the exhaust thermistor on the blower housing and inspect the connector and wiring for chafing, pinching, or moisture. Measure thermistor resistance — roughly 10 kΩ at room temperature is normal; a very low reading (near 0 ohms) confirms a short.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.