KitchenAid Dryer Error Code F28 — Moisture Sensor Failure
What this means
The F28 error code on KitchenAid dryers indicates the moisture sensor has failed. The moisture sensor measures how wet the clothes are during the cycle to determine when to stop drying. When it fails, the dryer may run too long, stop too early, or not properly sense when clothes are dry. The sensor bars inside the drum may be dirty, or the sensor circuit may have failed.
Step-by-step fix
3 stepsClean the moisture sensor bars
Locate the two metal sensor bars inside the drum (usually near the lint filter opening). Clean them with rubbing alcohol or fine sandpaper to remove dryer sheet residue and fabric softener buildup.
Fabric softener sheets leave a waxy film on the sensors that prevents them from reading moisture accurately.
Test the sensor
Dampen a cloth and hold it against both sensor bars. Start a sensor dry cycle — the dryer should recognize the moisture and continue running. If it doesn't respond, the sensor circuit may be faulty.
Replace the moisture sensor
If cleaning doesn't fix the issue, replace the moisture sensor assembly. It's usually held in place by screws near the lint trap area.
When to call a professional
If the sensor and wiring are fine but the dryer still can't detect moisture, the control board may have a faulty input.
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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