Tumble Dryer
F04
The F04 error code on a Candy tumble dryer signals a problem with the NTC temperature sensor — the part that monitors heat inside the drum. It’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your dryer from running safely until it’s resolved.
What does this error mean?
F04 indicates that the dryer’s control board has detected an abnormal reading from the NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor, which measures the air temperature inside the appliance. Either the sensor is reading a temperature that’s too high, too low, or implausible — so the machine shuts down to prevent overheating or a fire risk. In most cases, this points to a faulty or disconnected sensor rather than an actual overheating event.
Est. repair cost
£10–£25 DIY (NTC sensor part only); £80–£150 for a professional repair including labour
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the dryer: unplug it from the mains, wait 10 minutes, then plug back in and restart. A one-off thermal trip can sometimes clear this way.
Clean the lint filter thoroughly — remove it, wash it under running water, and leave it to dry fully before reinserting. A blocked filter restricts airflow and causes overheating.
On condenser models, remove and rinse the condenser/heat exchanger unit (usually behind a panel at the bottom front). Blocked fins are a very common cause of temperature faults on Candy condensers.
Check the NTC sensor wiring: unplug the machine, access the back panel (four to six screws), locate the NTC sensor on the air duct near the heater, and firmly reseat any loose connectors. Do not open any sealed electrical components.
Test or replace the NTC sensor: Candy NTC sensors are available online for £10–£25. If you’re confident with a multimeter, test resistance across the sensor terminals (should read approximately 10kΩ at 25°C). A reading of zero or infinity means the sensor has failed and needs replacing.
If the error persists after these steps, stop DIY work — the fault likely lies with the heating element or control board, both of which require a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
Call an engineer if the F04 error returns after cleaning the filters, reseating the sensor wiring, and replacing the NTC sensor. Tell them it’s an F04 fault and that you’ve already ruled out a blocked condenser and a failed NTC — this saves diagnostic time. You should also call immediately if you notice any burning smell, scorch marks, or the drum gets excessively hot before the machine cuts out.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an F04 fault typically costs £80–£150 depending on whether it’s the sensor, element, or PCB at fault. If your Candy dryer is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile. For machines over 8 years old, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range condenser dryer (£250–£400), especially if other components are ageing.