Whirlpool Dryer Thermistor WP8577274, Replaces 8577274, 3390292, 3406294, 3976615
Genuine Whirlpool dryer exhaust thermistor. Mounts on the blower housing and reports exhaust-air temperature to the electronic control to regulate drying cycles.
WP8577274 Whirlpool Exhaust Thermistor for Dryers, Fixes Incorrect Temperatures or Fault Codes
🇺🇸 Matching U.S. Part Number: WP8577274
WP8577274 is a genuine Whirlpool dryer exhaust thermistor. It replaces discontinued Whirlpool numbers 8577274, 3390292, 3406294 and 3976615.
The thermistor mounts on the blower or exhaust housing and changes resistance as exhaust-air temperature changes. The electronic control reads this resistance to regulate dryer temperature and cycle operation. At approximately 70°F or 21°C, the thermistor should measure about 11.9 kΩ.
A defective thermistor may contribute to drying cycles that end too soon, run too long, operate too hot or display a temperature-sensor fault code such as F-22, F-23, E1, E2 or F3 E1 on applicable models.
A failed exhaust thermistor is not normally the cause of a dryer producing no heat. No-heat problems may result from the heating element, burner system, thermal fuse, thermal cut-off, thermostat, wiring or power supply.
Confirm the complete dryer model before ordering. Disconnect electrical power before accessing the blower housing or electrical wiring.
Is This the Right Part?
Confirm the complete model number before ordering. Similar thermistors may differ in connector style, resistance curve or mounting configuration.
Common Symptoms
- Drying cycles ending too soon — clothes still damp at end of cycle
- Drying cycles running too long — dryer runs well past normal cycle time
- Dryer overheating or shutting off on thermal protection
- Temperature-sensor fault codes: F-22, F-23, E1, E2 or F3 E1 on applicable models
- Inconsistent drying results across multiple cycles
Check Before Replacing
- Test the thermistor resistance at room temperature — it should read approximately 11.9 kΩ at 70°F / 21°C; a reading of OL (open) or near zero confirms failure
- Inspect the thermistor connector and wiring harness for corrosion, heat damage or loose terminals
- Check for blocked exhaust ducting — restricted airflow causes elevated exhaust temperatures that can trigger false fault codes even with a good thermistor
- Verify the control board is reading the thermistor signal correctly before replacing the thermistor
- For a complete no-heat condition, diagnose the heating element or burner system, thermal fuse, thermal cut-off and high-limit thermostat before replacing the thermistor
Part Details
Installation Notes
- Disconnect electrical power to the dryer before beginning.
- Locate the thermistor on the blower or exhaust housing — photograph the connector and mounting position before removing.
- Compare the new thermistor with the original before installing — verify connector style and mounting tab match.
- Inspect the wiring harness and connector for heat damage or corrosion.
- Restore power and run a timed dry cycle. Confirm the dryer reaches and maintains normal operating temperature without fault codes.
Use a qualified technician when diagnosis or installation is outside your experience.
Verified Compatible Models
WED5620HW2, YWED9450WR0 — and many additional Whirlpool-manufactured dryer models. See the complete model list in the product metafields or contact us to verify your model number.
Fitment reminder: Match the complete model number, including suffixes and revision digits, before ordering. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.
✓ Model-Specific Repair Pages
✅Compatibility & Cross Reference
Not sure about your model number? Call 1-877-899-7278 and we’ll help you confirm. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used for compatibility reference only.
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