Whirlpool Dryer F29 Error — Lint Thermistor Fault Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

F29 is the lint thermistor — a temperature sensor near the lint trap that monitors air leaving the drum.
If it reads out of range, the controller can't safely manage drying.
Power-cycle once.
If F29 persists, the sensor or its wiring has failed and needs replacement.
Service-tech repair: 100–200 USD typical.

Affected Models

Whirlpool Cabrio dryer
Whirlpool Duet dryer
Whirlpool front-load dryer
Whirlpool top-load dryer

Common Causes

Lint thermistor failed
Sensor wire damaged where it routes through the lint area
Sensor coated with lint and softener residue
Connector loose at controller
Controller sensor input damaged

How to Fix It

Power-cycle the dryer.

Press Power off.
Unplug for 10 minutes.
Plug back in.
Try a Cool Air cycle.
If F29 doesn't return on no-heat cycles, the sensor reading partially works — heated cycles trigger it.
If F29 appears even on cool air, the sensor isn't reading at all.
Pull and clean the lint trap.

Pull the lint trap out completely.
Clean off all visible lint.
Wash with warm soapy water if there's softener residue.
Vacuum the slot beneath the trap.
Heavy buildup near the lint area can affect the lint thermistor's readings.
Check the exhaust hose.

Pull the dryer forward and inspect the exhaust hose.
Heavy lint accumulation indicates years without cleaning.
Vacuum or replace the hose.
Restricted airflow stresses the lint thermistor and can cause F29 secondary to airflow issues.
Don't disassemble yourself.

The lint thermistor is mounted in the duct near the lint trap area.
Accessing it requires removing the rear panel and possibly the lint housing.
Service-tech work — DIY risks damaging the duct seal or making things worse.
Schedule Whirlpool service.

Provide model and serial numbers.
Lint thermistor replacement is 1–2 hours of labor plus a 30–60 USD part.
Total bill 150–250 USD out of warranty.
Free under warranty.
Heating doesn't work without this sensor — repair is needed for normal operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is F29 the same as F22 or F23?

All are thermistor codes but at different locations.
F22: outlet thermistor shorted.
F23: inlet thermistor shorted.
F29: lint thermistor (separate sensor near lint trap).
The fix is sensor replacement in each case but a different part.
The code tells the technician which sensor.

Why does the dryer have so many temperature sensors?

Modern dryers monitor temperature at multiple points to optimize energy use and prevent overheating.
Inlet sensor watches air going in, outlet/lint sensors watch air coming out, drum sensor watches actual fabric temperature.
Different readings combined help the controller make smart decisions.
One failed sensor disables the related logic.