E2
Whirlpool Dryer
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
Whirlpool dryer error E2 means the outlet thermistor is reporting an abnormal reading. The outlet thermistor measures the temperature of the air leaving the dryer drum through the exhaust. An incorrect reading triggers E2 and halts operation as a safety precaution.
Affected Models
- WED5000DW
- WED7500GC
- WED8000DW
- WED4815EW
- WED6620HW
Common Causes
- The outlet thermistor has failed and is giving a reading that is too high, too low, or completely absent
- The exhaust vent is blocked, causing exhaust air temperature to spike and trigger the error
- A wiring connector to the outlet thermistor has come loose or corroded
- The heating element is not cycling off, causing the exhaust temperature to climb continuously
- The cycling thermostat has failed, preventing it from regulating heat output
How to Fix It
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Unplug the dryer. Clean the lint screen and check the exhaust vent hose for blockages.
A blocked vent is a very common cause of temperature-related errors. Fix this first before testing any parts.
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Remove the back panel of the dryer to access the exhaust duct area.
The outlet thermistor is typically clipped to the exhaust duct near the heater assembly. It is a small cylindrical component with two wires.
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Check the thermistor's wiring connector. Remove it and reattach it firmly.
A loose connection is a free fix. Sometimes vibration from the dryer can cause connectors to gradually loosen over time.
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Test the thermistor with a multimeter at room temperature. It should show resistance within the range specified in your model's service manual.
A reading of open circuit (no continuity) or near zero ohms both indicate a failed thermistor that needs replacement.
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If the thermistor tests fine, check the cycling thermostat — also located near the heating element — for continuity.
A cycling thermostat should show continuity at room temperature. If it shows an open circuit, it has failed and needs replacement.
When to Call a Professional
An outlet thermistor replacement costs $10 to $25 and is a simple repair. If the thermistor tests good but E2 persists, the cycling thermostat or heating element may be the issue. Professional diagnosis and repair for those components costs $100 to $200 including parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is E2 different from E1 on a Whirlpool dryer?
E1 is about the inlet thermistor — monitoring air entering the drum. E2 is about the outlet thermistor — monitoring air exiting the drum through the exhaust. Both are temperature monitoring sensors, but they are positioned at opposite ends of the airflow path.
How do I know if my dryer is genuinely overheating versus just having a faulty sensor?
One way to check is to feel the outside of the dryer cabinet during operation — it should feel warm but not hot. Also check the outside vent for airflow — hold your hand near it and you should feel strong warm air when the dryer is running. If airflow feels weak, the vent is blocked and the dryer is genuinely overheating.
Can E2 come and go intermittently?
Yes — if the thermistor wiring connection is loose, vibration from the dryer can cause the error to appear and disappear. If E2 shows up sometimes but not always, a loose connector is the most likely cause. Check all connections to the thermistor and heat circuit components.