Restricted airflow detected

A restricted vent is a fire hazard. Clean the full exhaust run, not just the lint screen, at least once a year.
Pull and clean the lint screen, then wash it if a fabric-softener film has clogged the mesh and starved airflow
Disconnect the exhaust duct at the back and clear packed lint from the full run out to the wall cap
Confirm the exterior vent flap opens freely when the dryer runs and is not blocked by a nest or debris
Replace any crushed foil transition hose with rigid or semi-rigid duct so air moves freely
Pro Diagnostic Tip
AF on a 110-series Kenmore, a Whirlpool build, means the sensor saw too little airflow and cut heat to protect the machine. Clear the lint screen and the full vent run before anything electrical, since a blocked vent both trips AF and is the leading cause of dryer fires.
Repair Difficulty
Easy — DIY FriendlyEstimated Repair Cost
$0–$150
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
Gas leak detector ($130), thermal fuse tester ($95), belt tension gauge, and vent inspection camera ($180). Our technician arrives with $3,000+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
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Here's what a professional technician does to resolve this issue:
Clean the lint screen and the full exhaust vent
This repair requires gas leak detectors, thermal fuse testers, and high-voltage multimeters. Most homeowners find it safer and more cost-effective to have a licensed technician handle it.
Gas dryers carry carbon monoxide and explosion risk. Even electric dryers involve 240V circuits that can deliver a fatal shock. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
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Don't let error code AF disrupt your day. A professional diagnosis takes about 30 minutes — and it's free when you proceed with the repair.
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Kenmore error code AF indicates: Restricted airflow detected. This is a medium-severity issue affecting your dryer.
Pull and clean the lint screen, then wash it if a fabric-softener film has clogged the mesh and starved airflow Then, Disconnect the exhaust duct at the back and clear packed lint from the full run out to the wall cap Then, Confirm the exterior vent flap opens freely when the dryer runs and is not blocked by a nest or debris There are 1 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. If these steps don't resolve the error, contact a professional.
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: Loads take much longer to dry; The cabinet runs very hot; The dryer shuts off early on airflow. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your dryer's display panel for error code AF.
Repair costs for Kenmore AF typically range from $0 to $150 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.