Whirlpool Dryer Troubleshooting Codes and How to Read Them

Match the message to your next move

Your dryer may still be turning while an airflow or voltage warning is on the display. We'd read the message before touching a key, because clearing either warning brings back the time remaining while leaving the underlying condition to address.

Choose your next move from the message you're seeing. A power interruption has a control-button response, an airflow restriction calls for screen and vent checks, and a persistent voltage warning needs an electrician. That separates the checks you can make at the dryer from a problem with its electrical supply.

Your model number leads to the right instructions

If the display changes between an F number and an E number, read both parts. The changing display is part of the code's meaning: that alternating pattern identifies a problem the control has detected and routes you toward service.

For a code outside the examples below, use your owner's manual. Enter your model number in Whirlpool's manual lookup (opens in a new tab) to find the product manuals and troubleshooting documents for your appliance. Use those instructions when you need to match a code or control action to your particular dryer.

PF lets you resume or clear the interruption

PF means a power failure interrupted the drying cycle. During a power outage, unexpected electrical noise in the supply can also make the control detect an incorrect voltage and show PF. The message therefore points you toward an interruption in power, rather than a lint-screen cleaning task.

If the dryer has just powered up, let its 10-second delay finish before pressing any keys. Pressing a key too early can itself cause PF to appear. Give the control that interval before choosing whether you want to continue the interrupted load or dismiss the message.

Touch and hold START to restart the interrupted dryer cycle, then check that the cycle resumes. To clear the display instead, press POWER and check that PF disappears. Choose START when your goal is to continue drying; POWER is the display-clearing action.

If these control responses leave the PF problem unresolved, contact Whirlpool for help or schedule service.

L2 can leave the dryer running without heat

L2 means low or no line voltage. A problem with your home's power supply may keep the heater from turning on while the dryer continues to run. A turning drum with this message can therefore leave you with clothes that aren't getting the heat they need.

Whirlpool describes this L2 warning as appearing only during initial installation. If your dryer isn't newly installed, check your owner's manual for the L2 instructions that apply to it. Use the installation timing to choose the applicable guidance, rather than applying this description to every L2 occurrence.

Touch any pad to clear the code and return to the estimated time remaining. This dismisses the warning without correcting the supply problem. If the message persists, consult a qualified electrician.

If you're following a no-heat symptom beyond the display message, our guide to a Whirlpool dryer not getting hot covers that separate troubleshooting task.

Alternating F and E numbers require service

An F-number display alternating with an E-number display means the control has detected a problem requiring service. Read the complete pair so you can match what you're seeing to the instructions for your dryer.

F4E3, also written F4 E3, has a specific restricted-airflow meaning, so the lint-screen and vent checks below are relevant. Whirlpool also directs alternating F/E codes to service. If you're seeing F4 alternating with E3, arrange service as well as checking the airflow path; cleaning isn't an exemption from that service instruction.

Use the contact or scheduling options in Whirlpool's code help (opens in a new tab) to take that next step.

AF and Check Vent point to restricted airflow

For AF or Check Vent, look along the lint-screen and exhaust path. Possible restrictions include a clogged screen, lint in the vent, a crushed or kinked vent, or too many turns in the venting. Begin with the screen, then follow the house vent to address those separate places where airflow can be restricted.

The dryer can continue running while the airflow warning is present. Touching any key clears the code and returns the display to the estimated time remaining. The cleaning and vent checks address the restriction behind the message, so a return to the countdown isn't the end of that job.

Poor drying and a failure to heat are different symptoms. A dirty screen or obstructed vent can leave clothing incompletely dried even when the dryer produces heat, because moisture still needs a clear way out.

Clear the lint screen and put it back

Built-up lint reduces airflow, can increase drying time and puts extra stress on the heating system. Routine dry cleaning removes that screen restriction and belongs after each use.

1. Locate the lint screen on top of the dryer or in the door opening and remove it, exposing the collected lint.
2. Open the screen if necessary, then remove the lint with your fingers until the collected lint is off the screen.
3. Close the screen and push it back into place, leaving it seated in the dryer.

Check the vent all the way outdoors

Steam from tumbling wet clothes must be able to leave the appliance for the load to dry. Venting needs to run from the dryer to the outside of your home and remain free of obstructions. Trapped moisture can significantly extend drying time even when the machine is heating.

Check the house vent for kinks and obstructions such as lint. Clean its entire length as needed, from the back of the dryer to where it exits your home. Our guide to cleaning the dryer duct takes you through the fuller cleaning task.

If the screen and vent checks don't solve the airflow problem, contact Whirlpool or schedule service.

Plan to clean the venting that runs outdoors every one to two years, or more often if drying performance has decreased. How frequently you use the dryer and the kinds of items you dry affect how often that cleaning is needed.