Whirlpool · Dryer Moderate

F29 — Moisture Sensor Short

The moisture sensor circuit is shorted — the control sees zero resistance across the two sensor strips even with no laundry present. Auto-dry cycles will not work correctly.

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. Open the dryer door and locate the two metal strips inside the drum near the lint screen opening.
  2. Wipe both strips thoroughly with rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth — this fixes a high percentage of F29 cases.
  3. Reduce or eliminate dryer sheets for several cycles.
  4. If the code returns, unplug the dryer and access the sensor harness from the front panel.
  5. Inspect for two wires that have rubbed through insulation and are touching; repair or replace the harness.
  6. Measure across the sensor strips with the harness disconnected — should read open (OL); a low or 0 reading confirms a short.

Why it happens

Typical signs: F29 on display · Auto-Dry cycle ends within a minute of starting · Wet clothes never dry on sensor cycles · Beeping at end of a too-short cycle

  • Excess fabric softener buildup A conductive film of dryer-sheet residue or softener across the two sensor strips creates a short.
  • Wires touching The two sensor wires are pinched together behind the drum front.
  • Failed sensor harness Internal short in the harness assembly.

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.

  • Whirlpool Dryer Moisture Sensor Harness Common replacement
    Amazon →

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 F29 code mean on a Whirlpool dryer?

The moisture sensor circuit is shorted — the control sees zero resistance across the two sensor strips even with no laundry present. Auto-dry cycles will not work correctly.

What causes the F29 code on a Whirlpool dryer?

Excess fabric softener buildup: A conductive film of dryer-sheet residue or softener across the two sensor strips creates a short. Wires touching: The two sensor wires are pinched together behind the drum front. Failed sensor harness: Internal short in the harness assembly.

Is it safe to keep using a Whirlpool dryer with a F29 error?

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

How do I fix F29 on a Whirlpool dryer?

Open the dryer door and locate the two metal strips inside the drum near the lint screen opening. Wipe both strips thoroughly with rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth — this fixes a high percentage of F29 cases. Reduce or eliminate dryer sheets for several cycles.

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.