Maytag · Refrigerator
Maytag Refrigerator Error Code 28
Fresh food compartment thermistor fault
What this error means
Code 28 indicates the refrigerator section thermistor failed. The control may over-cool or under-cool the fresh food area without valid readings.
How 28 is detected
When 28 appears on a Maytag refrigerator, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Maytag MFF2055FRZ, Maytag MSS25C4MGW, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most 28 calls are resolved without parts: locate the thermistor in the upper fresh food duct near the light. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If 28 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Thermistor pulled out of the airflow duct clip
- Corrosion on pins at the main board connector
- Open sensor wire behind the crisper assembly
- Control board input circuit damaged
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Locate the thermistor in the upper fresh food duct near the light
- 2Press it fully into the mounting clip
- 3Reseat the harness at the control board in the ceiling
- 4Monitor fresh food temps for 12 hours after repair
When to call a technician
Correct resistance at the sensor plug but persistent code 28 points to main control replacement.
Affected models
- Maytag MFF2055FRZ
- Maytag MSS25C4MGW
- Maytag MFI2570FEZ
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use refrigerators to prevent 28 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when 28 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Maytag refrigerator—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for 28; Maytag uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting 28; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.