The F08 error on your Indesit Dryer means the machine has detected a fault with the heating circuit and the drum isn’t reaching the correct temperature. This usually points to a heating element, thermostat, or sensor problem that needs checking before you run another cycle.

Error code F08
Meaning Heating circuit fault — dryer not heating correctly or at all
Severity Medium — clothes won’t dry properly until fixed, but the dryer is still safe to use for tumbling
Time to fix 20–45 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver set

What the F08 error means

F08 is triggered when the dryer’s control board doesn’t get the expected temperature reading during a drying cycle. This can happen because the heating element has failed, a safety thermostat has tripped, or the temperature sensor is sending an incorrect signal. In most cases you’ll notice the drum turning but little or no warm air coming through.

This fault is similar in nature to heating and sensor errors seen on other Indesit appliances, such as the Indesit Washing F04 Error Code: Causes and Fixes, where a component isn’t reporting correctly back to the control board.

Common causes

  • Burnt-out or broken heating element
  • Blown thermal fuse or tripped safety thermostat
  • Faulty temperature sensor (thermistor/NTC) giving a bad reading
  • Blocked vents or lint filter restricting airflow and causing overheating protection to trip
  • Loose or damaged wiring connections to the heater circuit
  • Failing control board unable to correctly manage the heating cycle

How to fix the F08 error

  1. Unplug and cool down: Switch off and unplug the dryer, then leave it for 15 minutes so any hot components cool before you inspect anything.
  2. Clean filters and vents: Remove and clean the lint filter, check the exhaust hose and vent for blockages, and clear away any built-up fluff that could be restricting airflow.
  3. Inspect the heating element: Access the heater housing (usually at the back or base of the drum) and check the element for visible damage or breaks in the coil.
  4. Test with a multimeter: Check the heating element, thermal fuse, and thermostat for continuity. Replace any part that reads open circuit (no continuity).
  5. Check the sensor and wiring: Inspect the temperature sensor and its wiring loom for corrosion, loose connectors, or damage, and reseat or repair as needed.
  6. Reset and test run: Plug the dryer back in, run a short cycle, and confirm warm air is present and the F08 code has cleared.

FAQ

Can I keep using the dryer with an F08 error showing?
You can run cycles, but without heat clothes won’t dry properly, so it’s best to sort the fault out before continuing normal use.

Is the heating element expensive to replace?
Heating elements are a mid-range part, and fitting one yourself is straightforward if you’re comfortable working with basic tools and testing electrical continuity.

Will cleaning the vents fix F08 on its own?
Sometimes, yes — a blocked vent can overheat the system and trigger a false fault, so it’s worth checking and clearing this first before replacing any parts.