What to check, in order
- Unplug the dryer
At the wall.
- Clean the thermistor
Wipe it gently with a dry cloth. A coating of lint is a common cause.
- Try again
Run a short cycle.
When to call an engineer
If the code comes back after cleaning, the thermistor needs replacing.
Parts people end up buying
Only if the checks above point to a part. Match it to your model number first: it's on a label inside the door, around the door frame or on the back.
- Dryer thermistorSearch on Amazon
Affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. It never changes a verdict.
Quick answers
What does the E1 error code mean on a tumble dryer?
A dirty or failed thermistor, the sensor that tells the dryer how hot the air is.
Can I fix E1 on a tumble dryer myself?
Easy (10 minutes to clean). Start with: unplug the dryer; clean the thermistor; try again. If the code comes back after cleaning, the thermistor needs replacing.
Is E1 on a tumble dryer worth repairing?
Worth fixing. A thermistor is a cheap part, and dryers otherwise run for years without trouble.
About this code
Unbranded and less common appliances don't publish one shared code list, so this page gives the most common meaning across makers. Your manual is the final word, and the model number that finds it is on a label inside the door, around the door frame or on the back.
Last reviewed October 2026.