Whirlpool Dryer E1 Error Code: Thermistor Open or Short

Quick Answer

E1 on a Whirlpool dryer means a thermistor has failed open or shorted. The correct resistance at room temperature is approximately 10,000 ohms (10K ohms). An open reading (infinite ohms) means the sensor wire has broken; a near-zero reading means the sensor has internally shorted. Both conditions require thermistor replacement, which costs $10-20. Check the wiring first since a loose connector can mimic an open-circuit thermistor.

WhirlpoolDryerSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate82% DIY Success

Time to Fix

30–60 min

Difficulty

intermediate

Parts Cost

$10 – $20

Tools Needed

Multimeter (resistance/ohms mode), Phillips head screwdriver

What Does the E1 Code Mean?

One of your dryer's temperature sensors has either broken its circuit (open) or collapsed internally (shorted). Test it with a multimeter at room temperature and replace it if the reading is wrong. The part costs $10-20.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Thermistor element failure (open circuit from broken sensing wire)40%

Thermistor internal short (element collapsed)24%

Control board thermistor input circuit fault22%

Wiring harness connector loose or pulled off thermistor terminals14%

Symptoms You May Notice

E1 displayed on control panel
Dryer stops mid-cycle and will not restart
Dryer runs but no heat is produced (thermal protection mode)
Dryer overheats if running with shorted thermistor (no cutoff signal)
Code appears immediately at cycle start

Can you reset a Whirlpool dryer to clear the E1 code?

Unplug the dryer for 60 seconds after replacing the thermistor. Plug back in and start a normal cycle. The E1 code should not reappear if the thermistor has been replaced correctly and the wiring is intact.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter (resistance/ohms mode)Phillips head screwdriverNut driver (quarter-inch)Flashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Identify which thermistor is being flagged

Identify which thermistor is being flagged. On most WED-series dryers, E1 can refer to either the inlet thermistor (near the heating element) or the exhaust/outlet thermistor. Check the service manual for your model; F9 E2 is typically the exhaust thermistor, while E1 can span both locations.

Unplug the dryer

Set your multimeter to resistance (ohms) mode

Even if thermistor tests good, inspect the full wire harness

Install the new thermistor

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Thermistor (Inlet or Outlet)WP8577274 · $10–$20	WP8577274	$10 – $20

Verify part fitment for your Whirlpool model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $15 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the resistance spec for a Whirlpool dryer thermistor?

At approximately 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) room temperature, the thermistor should read close to 10,000 ohms (10K ohms). Resistance increases as the temperature drops and decreases as it rises. At 32 degrees F (0 degrees C), you would expect around 30,000 ohms. Readings of infinite ohms (open circuit) or near zero (shorted) both indicate failure.

Is E1 the same code as F9 E2 on Whirlpool dryers?

They often point to the same thermistor but are not identical codes. F9 E2 specifically identifies the outlet/exhaust thermistor. E1 is a broader thermistor fault that can refer to the inlet thermistor near the heating element, depending on the model. If your dryer shows E1, test both thermistors to pinpoint which has failed.

Can I run the dryer if it shows E1?

No. An open-circuit thermistor means the dryer cannot measure temperature, making safe heat control impossible. A shorted thermistor may cause the dryer to run without any temperature limiting. Both conditions create overheating risk. Do not run the dryer until the thermistor is replaced.

Should I replace both thermistors while the dryer is apart?

If the dryer is more than 7-8 years old and one thermistor has already failed, replacing both at the same time is cost-effective. Total cost for both is typically $20-40 in parts, and the time savings of not having to disassemble the dryer twice is worth it.

My Whirlpool dryer shows E1 but also has weak heat. Could it be something else?

A shorted thermistor (reading near zero ohms) can cause the control board to think the dryer is always cold and force the heater on continuously or at incorrect levels. However, weak heat combined with E1 can also point to a separate heating element or thermal fuse issue. After fixing E1, check heat output before closing the dryer up.

Related Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes

Code: HUBWhirlpool Dryer Error Codes Guide Code: F9 E2Whirlpool Dryer F9 E2 Error Code: Outlet Thermistor Failure Code: F22Whirlpool Dryer F22 Error Code: Exhaust Temperature Too High

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience E1 Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WED5000DW, WED8500DC, WED9620HC, WED7300DW, WED4815EW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026