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When it comes to ranking dryer brands, Whirlpool ranks at the top of the list. Even I bought one 6 months ago, and my dryer has been serving the purpose pretty well. But the problem appeared when one day I saw the check vent light on Whirlpool dryer. I’ve tried different methods to fix the issue, and today I’m going to share all the possible reasons behind the problem and how to fix it.
So, how to fix the check vent light on the Whirlpool dryer? Most of the time, the check vent light appears due to the clogs that block the airflow in the vent or exhaust hood. Clean the clogs and lint screen for a quick fix. Also, you should check the vent that runs from the dryer to the wall to see whether it is crushed or twisted.
I know it seems like everything, right? But trust me, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. So, stay with me to know other possible reasons and the troubleshooting.
What Does AF/check vent light Mean for Whirlpool Dryer?
I think many users face the problem when the Whirlpool Cabrio dryer AF code is showing up. You may ask, what does it mean? Well, let me explain. To maximize the user experience, Whirlpool uses different digital codes to notify the user. AF code is one of them.
A dryer needs proper and adequate airflow to perform its job. When your dryer fails to get enough airflow, it shows AF code, or the ‘check vent’ light turns on. AF code tells you that there are blockades in the vent or lint screen. Not only that, it appears when the vent is crushed or twisted. However, the dryer keeps working even if the code shows up.
You can fix the code of your own without calling a technician and save a few bucks. Also, don’t worry about that. I’m here to help you out; let’s jump in.
List of Problems Why Whirlpool Dryer Indicates Check Vent Light
There might be several reasons that are responsible for showing the check vent light. I’m going to provide a list of 3 problems below for you to identify and fix the issue. Here you go-
- Clogged Lint screen
- Clogged vent system
- Using the wrong type of vent
The solution is to check vent light on Whirlpool dryer
Hopefully, the wait is over. You’re going to get your desired solution now.
1. Clogged Lint Screen
Sometimes, you may face issues like the Whirlpool Cabrio dryer check lint light keeps coming on. Usually, this light flashes to remind you to clean the lint screen before you load up. However, if the light keeps coming on, it indicates that you need to clean the lint screen or vent system.
Step by Step Solution to Clean the Lint Screen
If your lint screen is responsible for the check vent light, then you’re lucky. Let me tell you why. The lint screen is the part you need to clean after using the dryer, and it’s easy. Leaving the dryer without cleaning the lint screen can increase the drying time. Moreover, it leads to a fire hazard. Here’s how you can clean the lint screen:
For Regular Cleaning
| Step No. | Instructions |
| 1 | Find out your dryer’s lint screen. Generally, you’ll find it near the dryer door. |
| 2 | Remove the lint screen gently. |
| 3 | Use your hands to clean the lint. |
| 4 | Reinstall the lint trap. |
Don’t try to scrub or use water because Wet lint is hard to remove.
For Intensive Cleaning
| Step No. | Instructions |
| 1 | Remove the lint screen. |
| 2 | Unplug the dryer. |
| 3 | Open the dryer door |
| 4 | Use a vacuum with a long extension or a brush to clean |
| 5 | Then, you should clean the lint screen with warm water and soap. |
| 6 | When the lint screen dries, use the vacuum again and put it back. |
| 7 | Lastly, close the dryer and plug it on. |
- Designed for shorter through-the-walls vents; Most valuable tool you can own to ensure the safe operation of your clothes dryer
- Easy to use manually or with your cordless drill and provides a means for regular cleaning of your dyer vent system; Reduce drying times and save money on utility bills while ensuring the safety of your home
- Effectively removes dangerous lint buildup in almost every type of dryer vent, eliminating a leading cause of house fires; Rotating action of the auger brush and flexible rods scours your entire vent wall surface while traversing the multiple turns that are common in most dryer vent systems
2. Clogged Vent
Do you know the main reason behind the ‘check vent’ light? Well, in most cases, you notice that the whirlpool dryer vent is clogged. As I said earlier, there’s no alternative to adequate airflow to get the proper output from a dryer. You can test the venting system with a whirlpool dryer vent test kit. When lint, fabrics, and debris block the vent, airflow gets disrupted. As a result, you might not be satisfied with your dryer. Your dryer will take more time to do its job.
Step by Step Solution to Clean the Vent
When it comes to cleaning your dryer’s vent, most people think you need help from a professional. But trust me, you can do it too by following the step-by-step instructions. Let me help you.
| Step No. | Instructions |
| 1 | Move the dryer away. You can take help from your friend to ignore any accident |
| 2 | Locate the exhaust hose of the dryer (mostly you’ll find it outside of your home or on the roof) |
| 3 | Unplug the power cord |
| 4 | Remove any tape or clamp which you’ll find at the end of the hose or vent pipe connecting to the dryer |
| 5 | Now use a vacuum to suck up the lint and debris to clean the vent pipe. If you don’t have a vacuum, use a long brush from the Whirlpool dryer cleaning kit back and forth. |
| 6 | After cleaning the vent pipe, go outside of your house to check the vent opening. Use the vacuum again to suck up the lint, and debris from outside. Also, you can use a brush. |
| 7 | Now keep the dryer back to its position |
| 8 | Attach the vent pipe |
| 9 | Plug in or continue the gas supply |
| 10 | Now turn on the empty dryer for 10 to 15 minutes to blow out the remaining dust. If it works, trust me, you’ll be fascinated. |
- Includes a high quality synthetic brush head and 6 durable rods that extend up to 12 feet
- This efficient dryer vent brush can be used with or without a power drill and will help you achieve professional results
- Removing lint buildup from your dryer duct helps reduce drying time and improve dryer performance, while extending the life of your dryer
3. Using the Wrong Type or Twisted Vent
What does the wrong type of vent mean? Well, using a plastic or foil vent isn’t suitable for your dryer. They get twisted or crushed easily. Thus, it blocks the moisture from going out of the dryer, and the venting system doesn’t work properly. So how to fix this? Let’s get straight to the solution section.
Step by Step Solution
| Step No. | What You Need to Do |
| 1 | Inspect the pipe from the top or side without moving the dryer. Now see whether it is crushed or twisted |
| 2 | If yes, move the dryer from the wall |
| 3 | Now replace the vent pipe with a flexible or rigid metal vent pipe. The diameter should be 4” or 102mm |
| 4. | You’ll need 2 elbows to connect the dryer and exterior vent. Maintain the shortest length possible (not more than four 90 degrees elbows, as each bend, tends to reduce the airflow) |
| 5 | Put the dryer back to its previous position |
| 6 | Now check the performance of the new vent pipe |
- Adjustable dryer vent (up to 18 inches)
- Includes a male snap-lock fitting and extra long draw-band collar for easy installation
- Closest to wall application is 2-1/2 inches
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to reset the check vent light on the whirlpool dryer?
As the reset program may vary from model to model, I’d suggest you read the manual and act according to that.
2. Why does my whirlpool dryer says check vent?
Whirlpool dryer says check vent because of the restricted airflow.
3. How to tell if the dryer vent is clogged?
When you notice the clothes aren’t drying properly or the drying time is more than expected, you can assume that the dryer vent is clogged. Also, your Whirlpool dryer check vent sensor can give you an indication by turning on the check vent light.
4. How do you unclog a dryer vent?
Here’re a few easy steps to unclog a dryer vent:
1. Clean the lint screen
2. Check the vent light on the whirlpool dryer to whether it is crushed or kinked
3. Clean the vent to get rid of lint and debris
4. Clean the exhaust hood of the exterior vent
5. How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
You should clean your dryer vent once a year. It depends on the usage. If you use it frequently, try to clean it after every six months.
6. How do you get the lint out of the outside dryer vent?
You can use a vacuum or shop vac to get the lint out of the outside dryer vent. However, a long brush can be a great alternative.
7. How often should you replace your dryer vent hose?
You should replace your dryer vent hose once a year, and it’s essential. Because using a dryer vent hose for a long time can lead to a fire hazard.
Conclusion
In this article, I’ve tried to help you out guys with the possible reasons behind the check vent light on Whirlpool dryer and how to fix it. The solutions that I mentioned, I tried out to fix the issue. Guess what? I did it without taking help from a technician. However, it costs me a few hours and lots of internet browsing.
I hope after reading this article, you can fix the check vent issue on your own. If you’re unsure or feel complicated, don’t hesitate to call a technician. Lastly, read the manual carefully before making any attempt and always follow safety precautions. Happy fixing!
