R‑R Temperature Sensor (8540226) for Kenmore HE2 Plus – What It Fixes & How to Replace
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
What this part is: The R‑R temperature sensor (part 8540226) on Kenmore/Whirlpool-based washers is an NTC thermistor that measures water/drum temperature and feeds that information to the main control board so the machine can select the correct fill and wash temperature. When it fails the washer can show errors, refuse to complete temperature‑sensitive cycles, or report incorrect temperatures. Step‑by‑step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1. Confirm symptoms: Note error codes, wash temperature behavior (always cold/hot), or cycle interruptions. Record any specific error code from the display or flashing LED pattern. 2. Power & safety: Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply before doing any internal checks. 3. Access sensor: Pull the washer away from the wall. On the Kenmore HE2 Plus (110.47531701) the temperature sensor is typically mounted to the tub/heater area or in the heater assembly — remove the rear access panel (and/or top depending on layout) to get visual access. 4. Visual inspection: Look for corroded connectors, brittle wires, water deposits, or a cracked sensor body. Corrosion or melted insulation indicates replacement. 5. Resistance test (multimeter): Disconnect the sensor harness. With the meter set to ohms measure across the thermistor terminals. You should see a finite resistance that changes as the sensor warms: resistance decreases as temperature rises (NTC behavior). Many washer NTCs are near 10 kΩ at ~25°C, but check your service sheet for exact spec. If the reading is open (OL) or fixed (no change when warmed by hand), the sensor is bad. 6. Wiring check: If the sensor reads OK, check continuity and for voltage at the harness with the washer powered (careful). Backprobe the connector while running a diagnostic cycle to confirm the board is supplying the expected signal/voltage. 7. Replace sensor: If the sensor is faulty or connectors/wiring are damaged follow the replacement steps below. How to replace (practical steps): 1. Unplug the washer and turn off water. Move the machine to a well‑lit workspace. 2. Remove the rear access panel (usually held by 4–6 screws). On some units you may need to remove the top first. 3. Locate the temperature sensor (small cylindrical or flat thermistor mounted into the tub or heater housing) and its electrical connector. 4. Disconnect the harness connector by pressing the locking tab and pulling straight out. 5. Remove the sensor: some sensors are secured with a clip, small screw, or O‑ring. Carefully pry out the sensor or remove the fastener. Keep track of any O‑ring or seal — replace if damaged. 6. Install the new sensor (part 8540226). Apply a thin coat of lubricant compatible with seals (or a little water) to the O‑ring if present, seat the sensor fully, and secure the clip/screw. 7. Reconnect the harness, reattach the access panel, restore water and power. 8. Run a diagnostic or a normal cycle and confirm the washer now detects and responds to temperature properly (look for no error codes and correct water temperature selection). Safety note: Always disconnect power before opening the washer. If you must measure live voltages, use insulated tools, avoid touching energized parts, and take care with wet environments. If you’re not comfortable with electrical diagnostics, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
Washer reports temperature errors or won’t complete temperature‑sensitive cycles; water always cold or always hot; error codes related to temperature or thermistor; intermittent or inconsistent wash temperatures.
Common Causes
- Failed NTC thermistor (sensor internal failure)
- Corroded or damaged sensor connector/wiring causing intermittent signal
- Water intrusion or physical damage to sensor/O‑ring leading to incorrect readings
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm failure quickly, disconnect the sensor and measure resistance while warming it with your hand or a cup of warm water — the resistance should fall as temperature increases. If it stays the same or reads open, replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test the 8540226 temperature sensor with a multimeter?
Unplug and remove the sensor harness, set your multimeter to ohms, and measure across the sensor terminals. You should see a finite resistance that decreases as the sensor is warmed. If the meter reads OL (open) or a fixed value that does not change with temperature, the sensor is bad and should be replaced. Compare to the service manual spec if available (many NTC sensors are around 10 kΩ at 25°C, but values vary).
How long does it take to replace the temperature sensor and do I need special tools?
Replacement typically takes 20–45 minutes for a DIYer with basic hand tools (screwdriver, pliers, and a multimeter for testing). No specialized tools required. Always unplug the washer and shut off water before starting. If the sensor is behind other components you may need to remove additional panels which can add time.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.