Whirlpool · Dryer Moderate

E2 — Outlet (Exhaust) Thermistor Shorted

Whirlpool's official E2 dryer page gives reset steps only and does not state a specific cause. The 'shorted outlet (exhaust) thermistor' explanation below matches widely-published Whirlpool service literature but is not confirmed on Whirlpool's consumer support page — treat it as likely, not certain, until a technician confirms it on your unit.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Typical cost
$15-30

The fix

Outlet (exhaust) thermistor

outlet (exhaust) thermistor shorted

$15-30 moderate difficulty 45 min Tools: multimeter, screwdriver, nut driver

Diagnose first: Inspect wiring for pinched or melted insulation causing the short before replacing the thermistor.

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How to fix it

  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Locate the outlet (exhaust) thermistor on the blower housing and inspect its wiring for pinched or melted insulation.
  3. Test the thermistor with a multimeter: roughly 10,000-12,000 ohms at room temperature is normal; under ~500 ohms means shorted.
  4. If shorted, replace the outlet thermistor (typical cost $15-30, about 45 min, moderate DIY).

Why it happens

Typical signs: E2 shown on the display · Dryer stops about a minute into the cycle

  • Most likely: Shorted outlet (exhaust) thermistor Test it with a multimeter: a good thermistor reads roughly 10,000-12,000 ohms at room temperature; under ~500 ohms means shorted — replace it.
  • Pinched or melted thermistor wiring Wiring shorted to ground between the thermistor and the control board can mimic a shorted sensor — inspect the harness and connections before replacing the thermistor.

More Whirlpool dryer codes

All Whirlpool codes → All 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: producthelp.whirlpool.com.