# How to Fix Whirlpool Error F29 (Moisture Sensor Shorted)
The F29 error code is a critical fault indicating a problem with the appliance’s moisture detection system, specifically during the drying cycle. This guide will help you understand, diagnose, and fix this issue quickly.
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## What Does Whirlpool Error F29 Mean?
The F29 error code signifies that the **Moisture Sensor Circuit is Shorted**.
In plain English, the machine believes the clothes are perpetually dry or it cannot determine the moisture level because the electrical circuit responsible for detecting moisture is closed (shorted) all the time.
This fault is almost always tied to the **Dryer Moisture Sensor**, which consists of two metal strips inside the drum that measure conductivity (resistance) across the tumbling clothes. If these strips or their wiring are shorted, the drying cycle may stop immediately or run for excessively long periods.
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## Step-by-Step Troubleshooting and Fix
Before attempting any internal repairs, **always unplug the washer/dryer unit completely** from the wall outlet.
### Step 1: Power Cycle and Physical Inspection (The Easy Fix)
1. **Perform a Hard Reset:** Unplug the appliance for 5 minutes. Plug it back in and attempt to run a short diagnostic cycle. Sometimes, a temporary electrical glitch causes the short reading.
2. **Locate the Moisture Sensor:** On most Whirlpool dryers and stack units, the moisture sensors are two small metal strips located directly below the lint filter opening inside the drum, or sometimes positioned near the front bulkhead.
3. **Inspect for Residue:** The most common non-technical cause of an F29 short is heavy buildup. Fabric softener sheets, dryer sheets, or concentrated lint residue can create a conductive bridge between the two metal strips, mimicking a short circuit.
4. **Clean the Sensor:** Use a small amount of **rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol)** and a cotton swab or a clean cloth to thoroughly scrub the sensor strips. Do not use water or abrasive cleaners.
### Step 2: Advanced Electrical Diagnosis (Using a Multimeter)
If cleaning the sensor strips did not clear the F29 error, the sensor assembly itself is likely faulty and requires testing.
1. **Access the Sensor Wiring:** You will need to access the wiring harness connecting to the moisture sensor assembly. This usually requires removing the front toe panel, the front bulkhead, or the rear service panel, depending on your specific Whirlpool model.
2. **Locate the Sensor Wires:** Trace the wires coming directly from the two metal sensor strips. Disconnect the electrical plug from the main control board or harness.
3. **Test for Continuity:** Set your multimeter to the **Ohms (Ω)** setting (low resistance scale, usually 200Ω).
4. **Place the Probes:** Place one probe on one sensor wire pin and the other probe on the second sensor wire pin.
5. **Check the Reading:**
* **Reading of 0 (Zero) Ohms or near 0:** This indicates **perfect continuity/a dead short**. This confirms the moisture sensor assembly is shorted internally and must be replaced.
* **Reading of “OL” (Over Limit/Open Loop):** This means the circuit is open, which is also a fault (though typically causes a different error code).
* **Reading that changes:** If you squeeze a slightly wet sponge between the metal strips and the resistance reading changes significantly (e.g., from 100kΩ down to 10kΩ), the sensor may be functioning correctly, suggesting the short is in the wiring harness or the control board (less common).
### Step 3: Replace the Dryer Moisture Sensor
If your multimeter test confirmed a dead short (0 Ohms) across the sensor terminals, the sensor strip assembly must be replaced.
1. **Identify the Part:** Use your appliance’s full model number (found on the door frame) to purchase the exact replacement sensor kit.
2. **Install the New Sensor:** Carefully remove the old sensor strip (which may be held by clips or screws inside the drum assembly or behind the front bulkhead). Install the new assembly, reconnect the wiring harness, and secure all panels.
3. **Test the Unit:** Plug the appliance back in and run a short drying cycle to ensure the F29 error is cleared.
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**Check the price for a replacement Dryer Moisture Sensor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Whirlpool+Dryer Moisture Sensor&tag=trivian-20**
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