Maytag Dryer: Troubleshooting Moisture Sensor Not... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's Main Control Unit (MCU) uses a low-voltage AC signal to monitor the resistance between the moisture sensor bars inside the dryer drum. When clothes are wet, the resistance is low. As the clothes dry, the resistance increases. When the resistance reaches a certain threshold, the MCU interprets this as the clothes being dry and terminates the drying cycle. A faulty sensor, wiring, or control board can disrupt this process.

Symptoms:

US homeowners often report that the Maytag dryer runs continuously, even after clothes are dry, or the dryer indicates that the clothes are still wet when they are actually dry. The auto-dry function may not be working correctly, leading to wasted energy and potential damage to clothing.

Possible Causes:

Faulty moisture sensor
Sensor wiring issues
Control board malfunction
Venting blockage
Drum grounding issue

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC power outlet and allow any stored charge in the components to dissipate for at least 5 minutes.
2

Locate the moisture sensor bars inside the dryer drum. They are usually metal strips.
3

Clean the sensor bars with a slightly damp cloth and mild detergent to remove any lint or residue.
4

Inspect the wiring connected to the moisture sensor. Ensure the wires are securely connected and not damaged. Use a multimeter to check continuity of the wires.
5

Check the dryer venting system for any obstructions. Remove the vent from the dryer and inspect for lint buildup. Clear any blockages.
6

Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the moisture sensor. Refer to the service manual for the correct resistance range at room temperature (around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit). An open or shorted sensor indicates a faulty sensor needing replacement.
7

If the sensor and wiring are good, the control board may be faulty. Replacement of the control board may be necessary.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental re-energizing of the circuit. Dryers operate on 120V AC or 240V AC power. Contact with live voltage can cause severe injury or death.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter after each load. Clean the dryer vent at least once a year to prevent lint buildup and ensure proper airflow. Avoid overloading the dryer, as this can affect drying performance and sensor accuracy. Periodically check the moisture sensor bars for lint buildup and clean them as needed.

Expert Tip:

On some Maytag dryer models, you can enter the service mode by pressing and holding the Start/Pause and Cancel buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. This allows you to run diagnostic tests on the moisture sensor and other components.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I find the correct replacement moisture sensor for my specific Maytag dryer model?

Locate the model number of your dryer. It is usually located on a sticker inside the dryer door or on the back panel. Use the model number to search for the correct replacement sensor online or at a local appliance parts store.

•What resistance value should I expect to see when testing the moisture sensor with a multimeter?

The resistance value varies depending on the model. Consult the dryer's service manual for the specified resistance range. Generally, a wet condition will show low resistance (near zero ohms), while a dry condition will show high resistance (several megaohms).

•If the moisture sensor and wiring are good, what are the chances that the control board is the problem, and is it difficult to replace?

If the sensor and wiring are good, the control board is likely the problem (though other issues like a faulty thermistor or heating element relay should also be considered). Control board replacement difficulty varies. Some are plug-and-play, while others require programming. Weigh the cost of a new control board and potential installation charges against the cost of a new dryer.

Maytag Dryer: Troubleshooting Moisture Sensor Not Detecting Dry Clothes

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I find the correct replacement moisture sensor for my specific Maytag dryer model?

•What resistance value should I expect to see when testing the moisture sensor with a multimeter?

•If the moisture sensor and wiring are good, what are the chances that the control board is the problem, and is it difficult to replace?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: