Dryer Error Codes Explained

When your dryer displays an error code, it's pointing you directly to the problem. Understanding these codes can save you a service call — many are caused by simple issues like a clogged lint trap or blocked vent. Here's a guide to the most common dryer error codes across major brands.

First Step for Any Error Code

Note the code before doing anything else
Clean the lint trap — a clogged lint trap causes overheating errors on almost every brand
Check the vent duct — a blocked vent is the second most common cause of dryer error codes
Reset the dryer: Unplug for 60 seconds, plug back in, restart
If the code reappears, use the brand-specific guide below

Whirlpool / Maytag Error Codes

Code	Meaning	Fix
F01	Main control board failure	Reset; replace control board if persists
F02	Keypad/user interface failure	Reset; replace keypad
F22	Outlet thermistor failure (overheating)	Check vent duct for blockage; replace thermistor
F26	Drive motor failure	Call technician
F28 / F29	Moisture sensor failure	Clean sensor bars inside drum; replace if persists
F70–F78	Communication errors	Reset; call technician if persists

Samsung Dryer Error Codes

Code	Meaning	Fix
HE / HE1	Heating error — overheating or no heat	Check lint trap and vent duct; check heating element
tS / tO	Temperature sensor open/short	Reset; replace thermistor if persists
dO	Door open	Close door firmly; check door latch
bE / bE2	Button stuck on control panel	Check for stuck button; reset
FC	Frequency error (power supply)	Check power supply; call technician
Et	EEPROM error (control board)	Reset; replace control board if persists

LG Dryer Error Codes

Code	Meaning	Fix
d80 / d90 / d95	Vent blockage (80%, 90%, 95% blocked)	Clean vent duct immediately — fire risk
CL	Child lock active (not an error)	Hold Child Lock button for 3 seconds to deactivate
tE1 / tE2 / tE3	Thermistor error	Reset; replace thermistor if persists
nP	No power to dryer	Check power cord and outlet; check circuit breaker
PF	Power failure during cycle	Power was interrupted; restart cycle
HS	Humidity sensor error	Clean sensor; replace if persists

Bosch Dryer Error Codes

Code	Meaning	Fix
E:01	NTC sensor fault (temperature sensor)	Reset; replace sensor if persists
E:02	Heating fault	Check vent; check heating element
E:03	Motor fault	Call technician
E:04	Door switch fault	Check door latch; replace switch if needed
E:05	Control board fault	Reset; call technician if persists

The Most Important Code: LG d80/d90/d95

LG's vent blockage codes deserve special attention. A d80 code means the vent is 80% blocked — a serious fire risk. If you see any of these codes, stop using the dryer immediately and clean the vent duct before running another cycle.

Use the Holikme 30-Foot Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit to clear the full length of the duct. It extends up to 30 feet with flexible rods and attaches to a power drill for thorough cleaning. After cleaning, run a test cycle to confirm the code clears.

Prevent Error Codes with Annual Vent Cleaning

The majority of dryer error codes — overheating, thermistor faults, heating errors — are caused or worsened by restricted airflow from a dirty vent duct. Annual cleaning prevents most of these codes from ever appearing. See our guide on how to vent a dryer properly for full maintenance guidance.

Most dryer error codes are resolved by cleaning the lint trap, clearing the vent duct, and resetting the machine. Work through those steps before calling a technician — you'll fix the majority of codes yourself in under 30 minutes.

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