Maytag Dryer Error F20
⚡ Quick Answer: The Maytag dryer error code F20 indicates a potential issue with the door switch or control board, often causing the dryer to fail to start or to stop... ⚠️ Difficulty Varies
What Does Error F20 Mean?
The Maytag dryer error code F20 indicates a potential issue with the door switch or control board, often causing the dryer to fail to start or to stop unexpectedly during a cycle. Additionally, it may be related to heating circuit or heater relay problems, leading to inadequate heating or shut-offs soon after starting. If the F20 error persists even after a power cycle reset, further investigation into the heating components may be necessary.
Common Symptoms:
- Dryer may display F20 and not heat properly or may shut off shortly after starting (community reports).
- Error persists after reset/power cycle.
Possible Causes
- Faulty heater relay or other heating circuit component (medium)
How to Fix Error F20
DIY Fix Power cycle the dryer
- Turn off the dryer at the circuit breaker or unplug it.
- Wait at least 5 minutes.
- Restore power and run a timed dry cycle to see if F20 reappears.
DIY Fix Basic heat circuit observation
- Check if the dryer heats when running a cycle despite the F20 code.
- Listen for unusual sounds or lack of heating, which may suggest heating circuit issues.
Technician Only Inspect and test heating circuit components
- Disconnect power.
- Access the dryer’s heating element housing or burner assembly depending on model.
- Visually inspect wiring for heat damage, loose connections, and test thermostats/thermal cutoffs for continuity.
- Test heating element resistance and inspect heater relay on the control board.
- Replace any failed components such as thermostats, thermal cutoffs, heating element, or heater relay.
Parts needed: Heating element assembly, High-limit thermostat, Thermal cutoff, Heater relay or control board section
- If the error persists after a power reset and basic checks.
- If heating is absent or intermittent and internal component testing exceeds user comfort or expertise.
- If visible damage or burned wiring is observed.
Next step
Choose the next step for F20
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Heating Element
Heats the water or air inside the appliance to the required temperature.
- Typical part-only price
- $40 - $95
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 30-45 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Thermostat
Regulates temperature by turning the heating or cooling system on or off.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Model-compatible Dryer parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.
Lint Trap Cleaning Brush
A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.
Dryer Vent Hose Kit
A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Technical Specifications
| wattage | N/A |
|---|---|
| component | Door Switch / Control Board |
| resistance | 0-1 ohms (for door switch continuity test) |
| part_number | WPW10116823 (Door Switch), WPW10189966 (Control Board) |
| voltage_rating | 120V AC |
Common Questions
What does F20 error mean on Maytag dryer?
F20 indicates a malfunction with the door switch or control board, potentially affecting heating and causing the dryer to shut off.
Can I fix Maytag dryer F20 error myself?
Yes, you can try power cycling the dryer and checking for heating issues. If problems persist, further inspection may be needed.
How much does it cost to fix F20 error?
Repair costs for the F20 error range from $80 to $350+, depending on the parts needed for the heating circuit.
When should I call a technician for F20?
Call a technician if the error continues after a power reset, or if you notice heating issues or damage that requires professional expertise.
Sources & References
- Maytag F20 Error Code - Dryer (official)
Data last verified: 2026-07-25
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