How to Replace Moisture Sensor 279366 in a Whirlpool Dryer

Is your Whirlpool dryer acting up by running too long or stopping short? A faulty moisture sensor could be the culprit, causing confusion when it comes to drying time. Don’t worry—we’ve got a simple fix for you, including a step-by-step how-to video below that will guide you through replacing the sensor and getting your dryer back to peak performance.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

If your Whirlpool dryer keeps running longer than it should or stops too soon, a faulty moisture sensor might be to blame. The sensor, part number 279366, helps detect when your clothes are dry so the cycle can end at the right time. When it’s not working properly, your dryer might not know when to stop. Luckily, replacing the moisture sensor is a quick and easy fix. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove the old sensor and install a new one so your dryer runs like new. Let’s get started.

Watch here: How to install a moisture sensor in a dryer

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Safety first

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair. 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Tools and materials needed

You likely have the essentials, like screwdrivers, already in your tool kit. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

• Moisture Sensor Part #279366– Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct part for your unit.
• Philips Screwdriver 
• 1/4 Inch Nut Driver
• Pliers
• Non-Residue Tape
• Vacuum Cleaner 
• Rubbing Alcohol

Replacement Steps

Step 1: Clean the Moisture Sensor Bars

Let’s start with the easiest fix first. Sometimes the moisture sensor just needs a little cleaning.

1. Open up the dryer door.
2. Locate the moisture sensor bars—they’re typically found just inside the drum, along the lint filter housing.
3. Grab a paper towel or cloth with a bit of rubbing alcohol and wipe the bars clean.
4. Once they’re clean and dry, run a test cycle to see if that solves the issue.

If the problem’s still happening, don’t worry—we’ll walk through replacing the sensor next.

Step 2: Remove the Two Back Panels

Now it’s time to get into the back of the dryer.

1. Remove the lint filter from the top of the dryer.
2. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the lint screen housing to the top panel.
3. Move to the back of the dryer.
4. With a 1/4-inch nut driver, remove all the screws holding on the access panel and main back panel.
5. Take off the access panel first, then the main back panel.
6. Set both panels and the screws aside for reassembly later.

Step 3: Remove the Lint Filter Housing

1. Use your 1/4-inch nut driver again to remove the screws securing the lint screen housing inside the dryer.
2. Pull the housing out and set it aside.
3. Pro tip: While you have the back open, take a minute to clear out any built-up lint. It’s great for airflow and safety.

Step 4: Remove the Moisture Sensor

Now we’re getting to the heart of the issue.

1. Locate the moisture sensor wiring from the back of the unit and unplug the wires.
2. Untwist the metal sensor bar from the back of the housing.
3. Head back around to the front of the dryer.
4. Reach in through the lint filter opening and carefully pull out the moisture sensor.

Step 5: Install the New Moisture Sensor

1. Take the new sensor bars and snap them into the sensor housing.
2. Use a small piece of tape to hold the sensor in place from the front—this makes the wiring easier in the next step.
3. Go around to the back again.
4. Slide the plastic spacer onto the bottom terminal of the sensor bar. Make sure the flat side is facing out.
5. Insert the retaining clip into the slit in the terminal.
6. Repeat this for the top terminal as well.

Important checks:

1. The top clip should be touching the metal cabinet for grounding.
2. The spacer on the bottom terminal should prevent its clip from touching the cabinet.
3. Finally, reconnect the wiring to the bottom terminal.

Step 6: Reinstall the Lint Filter Housing and Back Panels

1. Slide the lint filter housing back into place.
2. Use your 1/4-inch nut driver to secure it with screws.
3. Reinstall the main back panel first—make sure the bottom edge slides into the bottom lip of the dryer frame.
4. Double-check that the power cord isn’t pinched or caught behind the panel.
5. Secure both the main back panel and access panel with the 1/4-inch screws.
6. Return to the front of the dryer and use your Phillips screwdriver to reinstall the screws that secure the lint screen housing to the top panel.
7. Slide the lint filter back in.

Step 7: Finish Up

1. Open the dryer door and remove the tape from the front of the sensor.
2. Close the door.
3. Plug the dryer back in.
4. Run a test cycle to make sure everything is working properly and the sensor is detecting moisture levels accurately.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the moisture sensor in your Whirlpool dryer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!