How to Fix the F-24 Error Code on a Whirlpool Duet Sport Washing Machine

A fairly common problem with the Whirlpool Duet Sport washing machine is an error code F-24. When this error code occurs, the washing machine shuts down in mid cycle. In my case, if I reset it and tried to start a new cycle it would run for just a couple of minutes before error code F-24 would pop up on the display and the washing machine would shut down again. Instead of calling a repairman right away, here's how I fixed the problem.

The Maytag Duet Sport's Hidden Service Guide

On the inside of the lower front panel of your Whirlpool Duet Sport washing machine, there is a service guide. It's placed inside a clear plastic bag that is glued directly to the panel. You'll need to remove the hex screws holding the panel in place in order to remove it and get to the service manual. Before you remove even a single screw from the washing machine, you must first unplug it for safety. Once the panels start coming off, there are exposed wires and connections that carry enough voltage to cause significant injury or death, especially when you start poking around with a screw driver.

F-24 Error Code is a Temperature Sensor Fault

By looking up the F-24 error code in the service manual you can find that F-24 is a temperature sensor error code. This generally means one of two things. Either the temperature sensor has failed and needs to be replaced, or there is a loose connection in the temperature sensor wiring. If the sensor has failed you'll need to buy a new one, but it is easy to replace by yourself.

Washing Machine's Constant Vibration Can shake Things Loose

The more likely problem is that the constant shaking and vibrating of the washing machine has loosened the sensor or the wiring. Either way, the problem is easy to diagnose if you have a simple multi-meter. Even without a multi-meter, you can re-secure all the wiring and likely fix the problem. The service guide gives a list of the expected resistance values between the two leads of the temperature sensor for various temperatures. You don't really need this information, if the sensor is faulty, you'll see an infinite resistance reading on your meter, or an open circuit in other words.

Remove the Back and Top Panels

First, however, you have to find the temperature sensor. Refer to the photos attached to this article for more help in locating the temperature sensor associated with the Whirlpool Duet Sport's F-24 error code. You'll need to remove the back and top panel of the washing machine. Make sure you put all the hex screws in a safe place so that you don't lose them. There are quite a few of them. Once you've removed the screws, carefully remove the back panel. You will not need to remove any hoses in order to remove the back panel provided that there is enough hose length to allow you to pull the washer away from the wall to work behind it. Whenever you are working with sheet metal panels, be careful not to cut yourself on the edges of the panels. You may choose to wear some thin gloves while handling the panels for extra safety.

Locating the Temperature Sensor Wires

Once the panel is removed. You can start checking the wiring to the temperature sensor. The service guide includes several schematic drawings, but for those unable to read schematics, you can refer again to my photos. At the top left as you face the back of the machine, you'll see the electronics near the front of the washer. From this area, a group of wires runs from the front to the back and then down the left side of the washer. Among these wires are two black wires that originate from a connector labelled TH2 (see photos). These two black wires run directly to the temperature sensor which is underneath the washer barrel. Make sure these wires are connected securely at the electronics grouping on the top of the machine. Then trace them down to the temperature sensor. You can remove the wires from the temperature sensor by unhooking and pulling off the white connector from the black portion of the sensor housing.

Removing the Temperature Sensor

The temperature sensor itself can also be removed by carefully pulling it straight out through the hole into which it is inserted (see photos). The temperature sensor is a silver metallic cylinder mounted to a black plastic connector housing. Only the black plastic part shows when it is in place. Once it is out, clean it off and measure the sensor's resistance with your multimeter. Any reading other than an open circuit (infinite resistance) means that the sensor is probably ok. If it is open, then you'll need to buy another from Whirlpool or an authorized service center. Check the service guide for more details on this. If you don't have a multimeter, then assume the sensor is good.

Replace the Temperature Sensor and Run a Test Cycle

If there is some resistance, then replace the temperature sensor, making sure that it is fully and securely seated. Reconnected the two wires that you removed before pulling the temperature sensor. Make sure these connections are clean and secure. Replace the panels that you removed from the washer. Don't forget to put the service guide book back into the plastic bag on the inside of the lower front cover panel. Once you have the washer back together, plug it in. If you did remove any hoses, replace them and make sure the water is turned on as usual. Run a basic wash cycle to see if it runs completely through. There's no need to add clothes or detergent, you're only testing the temperature sensor function.

If Tightening the Connections Doesn't Work...

By securing the wires leading to the temperature sensor at both ends, you have most likely fixed the F-24 error code problem on your Whirlpool Duet Sport washer. The washing cycle should run completely through without the error code and without shutting down prematurely. If, however, the F-24 code still appears, and the washer shuts down, despite having tightened any loose temperature sensor wiring connections, then you may need to call the repairman after all.