Code: F13🧺 Hotpoint Washer

Hotpoint Washer Dryer F13 Error Code: Dryer Temperature Sensor Fault

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Based on 5 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Hotpoint UK's washing machine and washer dryer error code guides both list F13 as "Dryer temperature sensing fault (washer dryers only)", with the symptom that the washer dryer is not drying clothes, and the advice to call Hotpoint to book an engineer. Indesit Company service documentation for washer dryers built on the same electronics (Indesit, Hotpoint and Ariston shared platforms) is more specific: F13 means the drying NTC probe is open, or the NTC wiring of the drying system is disconnected. An NTC is a thermistor, a temperature sensor whose resistance changes with heat. The control board uses it to watch the temperature of the hot air the dryer heater blows into the drum. If the reading is missing or impossible, the board stops drying so the heater can't run unchecked. The service procedure is to check the sensor connector on the main board, measure the sensor (about 20 kilohms at a room temperature of 20°C), check the wiring between board and sensor, then replace the sensor, and only replace the board if all of that is good. The sensor sits inside the dryer heater tunnel under the top panel, sandwiched between the two halves of the heater housing, so it isn't a quick swap. Hotpoint washers sold in North America are made by GE Appliances and use different codes, so check your model's handbook if you're in the US or Canada.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Switch the machine off and unplug it from the wall socket for a few minutes, then plug it back in and try a drying programme on its own. If F13 doesn't return, keep an eye on it.
  2. If the machine stopped mid-cycle with water or wet clothes inside, run a drain or spin programme (or drain through the pump filter at the bottom front) before opening the door.
  3. You can still wash and spin without drying while you wait for a repair; skip the drying programmes so the fault doesn't keep tripping.
  4. If you're experienced with appliance repairs: with the machine unplugged, remove the top panel and the bracket over the dryer heater tunnel, check the sensor's plug is firmly connected, and measure the sensor. Indesit's service figure is about 20 kilohms at 20°C.
  5. Replacing the sensor means separating the two halves of the heater tunnel without disturbing the seal and refitting the drum seal afterwards. If that sounds like more than you want to take on, stop and book an engineer, as Hotpoint advises.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • F13 comes back after a power reset: Hotpoint recommends booking an engineer.
  • You find a melted or loose sensor, or smell burning: a sensor can be damaged by overheating, which may point to another fault (such as the fan or heater) that also needs checking.
  • The sensor and wiring test good but F13 remains: the next step is the main control board, which usually needs programming for your model.
  • The machine is under warranty: contact Hotpoint service rather than opening it up.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Hotpoint washer dryer dryer sensor (NTC thermistor)

Match it to your exact model number; Hotpoint has changed the sensor design on some models, so order the current part.

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⚙

Torx screwdriver set

Needed on many models to split the dryer heater tunnel and reach the sensor.

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Multimeter

To check the sensor reads about 20 kilohms at room temperature with the machine unplugged.

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Sources

  1. Hotpoint UK: Washing Machine Error Codes Troubleshooting Guide (F13 dryer temperature sensing fault, washer dryers only; not drying; book an engineer)
  2. Hotpoint UK: Washer Dryer Error Codes Troubleshooting Guide (F13 heating element or temperature sensing problem; engineer needed)
  3. Indesit WIL10 washer dryer service documentation, French (F13: drying NTC probe open or wiring disconnected; check connector, about 20 kilohms at 20°C, check wiring, replace NTC, then board)
  4. eSpares: How to fix an F13 error on a washer dryer (Hotpoint/Indesit) (faulty sensor in the dryer heater assembly; revised sensor design; replacement steps)
  5. BuySpares: How to replace a dryer sensor on an Indesit washer dryer (F13 usually means the sensor needs replacing)

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.