Maytag Dryer Error Code F22

Maytag Dryer F22 Error Code: What it Means

The Maytag dryer F22 error code commonly indicates a heating or temperature regulation problem that prevents the dryer from reaching or maintaining the correct drying temperature. This can manifest as longer drying times, partially dried loads, garments remaining damp, or the dryer cycling excessively. In some cases F22 can also be triggered by restricted airflow or sensor/thermostat faults that cause the control board to detect an out-of-range temperature. Beyond inconvenience and increased energy usage, unresolved F22 conditions can present safety concerns such as overheating, damage to clothing, or an elevated fire risk if lint and vents are blocked.

Common Causes

• Clogged or restricted venting or dryer exhaust (reduced airflow)
• Blocked lint screen or lint build-up in the cabinet
• Failed heating element or open heater coils
• Blown thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat
• Faulty cycling thermostat or thermistor (temperature sensor)
• Defective main control board or heater relay
• Obstructed blower wheel or motor issues affecting airflow
• Damaged wiring harness or loose connector to sensors/heater

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Safety first: disconnect power to the dryer before inspecting any internal parts. For gas dryers also turn off the gas supply.
2. Check the lint trap: remove the lint screen and clean it thoroughly. Inspect the lint trap housing for obstructions and remove any lint build-up.
3. Inspect the venting: disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and visually inspect/clean it. Run the dryer briefly on air-only (no heat) with power on to verify strong airflow out of the duct.
   • If airflow is weak, clean the vent hose and exterior vent or call a professional duct cleaner.
4. Test the heating element: with the dryer unplugged, remove access panels and visually inspect the heating coils for breaks or damage. Use a multimeter to check continuity of the element.
   • Open or no continuity indicates a failed heating element that needs replacement.
5. Check thermal fuses and thermostats: locate the thermal fuse and cycling/high-limit thermostats and test them for continuity. A blown thermal fuse will be open and must be replaced.
   • Note: a blown fuse usually indicates an underlying airflow/overheat condition that should be corrected before replacing the fuse.
6. Test the thermistor/temperature sensor: some models use a thermistor to report temperature to the control board. Measure resistance with a multimeter and compare to the specification in the service manual.
7. Inspect the blower wheel and motor: remove the blower housing to ensure the wheel spins freely and there is no lint jam restricting airflow.
8. Examine wiring and connections: look for melted insulation, loose connectors, or burned terminals between the control board, heaters, and sensors.
9. Reset or test the control board: after verifying components and fixing airflow issues, restore power and run a diagnostic cycle if available. If the board is suspected, consult a technician for advanced testing or replacement.
10. If troubles persist or you find damaged gas components, weak airflow after cleaning, or complex electronic failures, stop and contact a qualified appliance repair professional.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Clean the lint screen after every load to maintain proper airflow.
• Vacuum lint from the lint trap housing periodically (every 3 months or more frequently with heavy use).
• Inspect and clean the dryer vent hose at least once a year; replace crushed or rigid ducting with smooth, code-compliant venting if needed.
• Ensure the exterior vent hood opens freely and is free of obstructions (birds’ nests, debris).
• Do not overload the dryer; heavy loads reduce airflow and increase drying time.
• Periodically remove the dryer back or front panel to check and clean the blower wheel and interior lint accumulation.
• Use shorter drying cycles for smaller loads to reduce wear on thermostats and heating components.
• Replace worn or cracked vent hoses—use semi-rigid or rigid ducting where possible to improve airflow.
• Confirm proper installation with a licensed technician if the dryer was recently moved or installed; kinked hoses and poor routing are common airflow culprits.
• Check the room ventilation where the dryer is located; poor ambient airflow can affect performance.
• Schedule professional maintenance annually if you use the dryer frequently.
• When replacing parts, use OEM or manufacturer-recommended components to ensure correct operation.
• Keep the dryer area clear of combustible materials and store cleaning products away from the machine.
• Pay attention to unusual smells or burning odors—stop using the dryer and have it inspected immediately.
• Follow manufacturer instructions in the user manual for load sizes, venting, and maintenance procedures.

FAQs

Q: Is F22 dangerous?

A: F22 signals a heating or temperature control problem. While not always immediately dangerous, the underlying causes (restricted vents or faulty thermostats) can increase fire risk or cause overheating. Address the issue promptly and avoid running the dryer until it is checked.

Q: Can I clear F22 by unplugging the dryer?

A: Power-cycling may temporarily clear the error, but it will likely return if the root cause remains. Use the downtime to inspect vents and filters; if the code returns, continue with the troubleshooting steps or call a technician.

Q: Will replacing the thermal fuse fix F22?

A: Replacing a blown thermal fuse can resolve the error only if the fuse is the failed component. Because fuses blow due to overheating or airflow restriction, you should correct venting issues before replacing the fuse to avoid repeat failure.

dt>Q: How do I know if the heating element is bad?

A: Symptoms of a bad element include no heat, weak heat, or intermittent heating leading to long drying times. Test for continuity with a multimeter; lack of continuity indicates a failed element.

Q: When should I call a professional?

A: Call a qualified appliance repair technician if you find electrical damage, a suspected faulty control board, burned wires, a gas component issue, or if you are not comfortable performing the continuity checks and disassembly described above.

Conclusion / Safety Notice

Addressing an F22 error promptly helps restore dryer performance and reduces risks. If routine cleaning of the lint screen and venting does not clear the code, or if you encounter fried wiring, a blown thermal fuse, or suspected control board failure, stop using the machine and call a qualified appliance technician. Gas dryer repairs and any work involving electrical components should be handled by professionals if you are not experienced and equipped to do them safely.

For your safety and the longevity of your dryer, prioritize proper vent maintenance and professional diagnosis for persistent F22 errors.