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Whirlpool Dryer Error Code AF
Restricted airflow. AF (Restricted Air Flow) or the Check Vent light means the lint screen or vent is clogged, or the vent is crushed, kinked or has too many turns. The dryer keeps running, but drying slows down.
- Code: AF (also shown as Check Vent)
- Appliance: Whirlpool dryer
- Owner fix: Often fixable with the safe checks on this page. Call a pro if the code comes back.
- Repair cost: call for a quote
- Checked against the manufacturer sources below on October 27, 2026
Likely causes
- Full lint screen
- Lint in the duct or outside hood
- Crushed or kinked duct behind the dryer
- Duct run too long for the vent type
Safe checks you can do
Safety: Unplug the dryer before moving it or cleaning the duct. On a gas dryer, do not disconnect or work on the gas line, valve or burner. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas company from outside.
- Clean the lint screen.
- Unplug the dryer, pull it out, and check the duct for crushing or kinks.
- Run the dryer 5 to 10 minutes and hold your hand under the outside hood. Whirlpool says if airflow is weaker than a hair dryer on high, clean the whole vent run.
- Restart with a timed heated cycle.
When to call a pro
- The light stays on after cleaning (hire a vent cleaning specialist)
- The dryer feels very hot outside or smells scorched
- Any time you smell burning or gas, see sparks, or would need to open a panel
What does it cost to fix?
Call for a quote. Repair costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop, so this site does not publish price ranges. Ask each shop for its diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis. See what affects repair cost.
Sources
Codes and steps vary by model. Your owner's manual and the model sticker inside the door or on the back are the final word for your exact unit.
Dryer codes from other brands
See also: Dryer help in Idaho · Dryer not heating · Dryer taking too long · All error codes
FAQ
What does Whirlpool error code AF mean?
Restricted airflow. AF (Restricted Air Flow) or the Check Vent light means the lint screen or vent is clogged, or the vent is crushed, kinked or has too many turns. The dryer keeps running, but drying slows down.
Can I fix Whirlpool code AF myself?
Often fixable with the safe checks on this page. Call a pro if the code comes back. Unplug the dryer before moving it or cleaning the duct. On a gas dryer, do not disconnect or work on the gas line, valve or burner. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas company from outside.
How much does it cost to fix Whirlpool code AF?
Call for a quote. Repair costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop, so this site does not publish price ranges. Ask each shop for its diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis.
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