Whirlpool · Dryer Moderate

F28 — Moisture Sensor Open

The control cannot see the moisture sensor strips inside the drum (open circuit). Automatic / Auto-Dry cycles will not end correctly because the dryer can't tell when the clothes are dry.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Checked against
atoz1.com ↗ third-party appliance-code list, not a manufacturer document

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Remove the top panel / front panel per the model service sheet to access the moisture sensor harness.
  3. Reseat the moisture sensor connector and inspect the wires for breaks.
  4. Inspect the two metal strips inside the drum near the lint screen — they should be clean and roughly flush.
  5. Wipe the strips with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove fabric softener film.
  6. If wiring and strips are good, replace the moisture sensor harness assembly.

Why it happens

Typical signs: F28 in display · Auto cycles end almost immediately or run forever · Clothes coming out damp on Auto Dry but fine on Timed Dry · Sensor Dry cycles unusable

  • Disconnected sensor harness The connector to the moisture sensor strips behind the lint screen housing has worked loose, often from vibration.
  • Broken wire Wire chafed or broken where the harness runs into the drum front bulkhead.
  • Damaged sensor strips The two metal strips inside the drum are bent away from clothes contact or corroded.

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.

  • Moisture sensor harness Common replacement
    Amazon →

Related repair guides

Dryer Stops Mid-Cycle or Shuts Off Before Dry →

More Whirlpool dryer codes

AF AF — Airflow Restriction E1 E1 — Exhaust Thermistor Open/Shorted E2 E2 — Outlet (Exhaust) Thermistor Shorted Err Err — Door Not Fully Closed F01 F01 — Main electronic control board failure F02 F02 — User Interface / Keypad Failure

All Whirlpool codes → All dryer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the F28 code mean on a Whirlpool dryer?

The control cannot see the moisture sensor strips inside the drum (open circuit). Automatic / Auto-Dry cycles will not end correctly because the dryer can't tell when the clothes are dry.

What causes the F28 code on a Whirlpool dryer?

Disconnected sensor harness: The connector to the moisture sensor strips behind the lint screen housing has worked loose, often from vibration. Broken wire: Wire chafed or broken where the harness runs into the drum front bulkhead. Damaged sensor strips: The two metal strips inside the drum are bent away from clothes contact or corroded.

Is it safe to keep using a Whirlpool dryer with a F28 error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix F28 on a Whirlpool dryer?

Unplug the dryer. Remove the top panel / front panel per the model service sheet to access the moisture sensor harness. Reseat the moisture sensor connector and inspect the wires for breaks.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. How we verify: atoz1.com — third-party appliance-code list, not a manufacturer document.