# How to Fix Maytag Error F4 (Moisture Sensor Short)
The Maytag F4 error code is a common fault, particularly in Maytag dryer units or washer/dryer combos. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve the underlying issue.
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## 1. Explanation: What Maytag Error F4 Means
The F4 error code indicates a **Moisture Sensor Short** within the appliance.
In plain English, this means that the machine’s main control board is receiving a constant signal that the dryer’s metal moisture sensor strips are “wet” or bridged, even when they are completely dry. This constant conductivity is called a “short circuit.”
**The Likely Culprit:** The **Dryer Moisture Sensor** strips or the associated wiring harness are contaminated, damaged, or completely faulty.
If this error persists, the unit may fail to start, or the dryer cycle will immediately stop, believing the clothes are already finished.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting and Fix
Follow these steps sequentially, as the solution often involves simple cleaning before resorting to part replacement.
### Step 1: Power Cycle the Unit (The Hard Reset)
Always begin by completely resetting the machine to clear any temporary glitches in the control board’s memory.
1. **Unplug:** Completely disconnect the Maytag washer/dryer unit from the wall power outlet.
2. **Wait:** Leave the unit unplugged for a minimum of 5 minutes.
3. **Plug In:** Restore power and attempt to run a short cycle. If the F4 code reappears immediately, proceed to Step 2.
### Step 2: Clean the Moisture Sensor Strips (Most Common Fix)
The most frequent cause of an F4 short is residue buildup on the metal sensor strips, which tricks the machine into thinking the strips are connected (shorted).
1. **Locate the Strips:** The two metal sensor strips are typically found on the front bulkhead of the drum, inside the dryer portion of the unit. They look like two thin, parallel strips of metal.
2. **Identify Residue:** Fabric softener sheets, dryer sheets, or detergent residue are conductive and can build up, creating the short.
3. **Clean Thoroughly:** Use a cloth slightly dampened with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or warm water and mild dish soap. **Do not use bleach or harsh, abrasive cleaners.**
4. **Scrub:** Vigorously wipe down both metal strips and the plastic area between them to remove all visible and invisible residue.
5. **Dry:** Allow the strips to air dry completely before attempting to run the unit again.
### Step 3: Inspect the Wiring Harness
If cleaning did not resolve the F4 short, the issue may be in the electrical pathway leading to the sensors.
1. **Unplug the Unit:** Ensure the machine is completely disconnected from power.
2. **Access the Rear Panel:** Depending on your model, you may need to access the rear control panel or the panel behind the drum to reach the sensor harness.
3. **Check for Damage:** Trace the wires that connect directly to the moisture sensor strips.
* Look for crimped, frayed, or melted wires.
* Check for disconnected pins at the connection points (where the harness plugs into the control board).
* If you find damaged wiring, it must be repaired or replaced.
### Step 4: Replace the Dryer Moisture Sensor (Final Step)
If you have confirmed that the unit is powered off, the sensor strips are clean, and the wiring harness is intact, the sensor board itself has likely failed internally and is generating a false short signal.
Replacement of the sensor is necessary to clear the F4 code. This is usually a simple process requiring a screwdriver to remove the old unit and install the new one.
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## 3. Call to Action
If you have isolated the issue to a faulty part, here is where you can find the replacement component:
**Check the price for a replacement Dryer Moisture Sensor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Maytag+Dryer Moisture Sensor&tag=trivian-20**
Need a Replacement Part?
Get the correct part for your Maytag Dryer quickly:
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