# How to Fix Kenmore Error F24 (Water Temp Sensor)
The F24 error code is a common fault in many Kenmore washing machine models (especially front-loaders). This guide will help you quickly identify the problem and replace the faulty component.
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## Explanation: What Error F24 Means
The F24 error code indicates that the **Main Control Board (CCU)** is not receiving the correct voltage or resistance reading from the **Water Temperature Sensor**, also known as the **Thermistor**.
**In Plain English:** Your washer doesn’t know how hot or cold the water is.
### Why This Matters
The washing machine needs accurate temperature readings to ensure water is heated properly for sterilization cycles, or to prevent overheating (a safety measure). When the reading is absent or out of the acceptable range, the control board halts the cycle and displays F24.
### The Likely Culprit
In 90% of F24 cases, the issue is a failed **Thermistor** itself, which is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward part to replace.
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## Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the F24 Error
**⚠️ SAFETY WARNING:** Always unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet before opening panels or performing any diagnostic tests. You will be working near electrical components and water lines.
### Step 1: Locate the Thermistor
The thermistor is usually located near or attached to the main heating element inside the wash tub assembly.
1. **Access:** Depending on your model, you may need to remove the lower kick panel (front-loaders) or the rear panel (top-loaders) to gain access to the bottom of the drum.
2. **Identify:** The thermistor is a small sensor, typically held in place by a clip or screwed into the plastic housing near the bottom of the tub. It will have two wires running to it.
### Step 2: Visual Inspection (Wiring Check)
Before testing the part, check the wiring harness connected to the thermistor.
* Look for any signs of corrosion, burned connections, frayed wires, or places where the wire might have been pinched or cut by the drum.
* If the wiring is visibly damaged, repairing the harness may clear the code. If the wiring is intact, proceed to testing the component.
### Step 3: Test the Thermistor Using a Multimeter
The thermistor is a resistor whose value changes with temperature. Testing its resistance (Ohms) is the only way to confirm if it has failed.
1. **Disconnect:** Pull the two wires off the thermistor terminals.
2. **Set Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the resistance setting (Ω – Ohms). If your meter has an auto-ranging feature, use that.
3. **Test:** Place the multimeter probes onto the two terminals of the thermistor.
4. **Read the Resistance:** You are looking for a reading within a specific range. A healthy thermistor at room temperature (approx. 70°F / 21°C) should typically read between **10,000 and 15,000 Ohms (10kΩ to 15kΩ)**.
5. **Diagnosis:**
* **Zero or Infinite Reading:** If the reading is 0 Ω (shorted) or “OL” / “1” (open circuit), the thermistor is definitely bad and needs replacement.
* **Correct Reading:** If the reading is within the expected range, the thermistor is likely fine, and the issue might be a broken wire somewhere along the harness leading back to the control board (Step 4).
### Step 4: Test the Wiring Harness (Continuity Check)
If the thermistor tested fine, you must check the wiring between the sensor connection point and the main control board.
1. **Locate Control Board:** Find the main control board (usually located behind the top control panel).
2. **Trace Wires:** Identify where the thermistor wires connect to the control board harness.
3. **Test:** Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (it usually makes a beeping sound). Place one probe on the thermistor connector end and the other probe on the corresponding pin at the control board.
4. **Result:** If the meter does not beep, there is a break in the wire, and the harness needs replacement or repair.
### Step 5: Replace the Thermistor
If the thermistor failed the resistance test (Step 3):
1. Unclip or unscrew the old thermistor.
2. Install the new thermistor, ensuring the O-ring or gasket seats properly to prevent leaks.
3. Reconnect the two wires.
4. Reassemble the machine and plug it back in.
5. Run a short diagnostic or wash cycle to confirm the F24 error is gone.
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**Call to Action**
Check the price for a replacement Thermistor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kenmore+Thermistor&tag=trivian-20