IPSO Tumble Dryer Error Code SH: Shorted Thermistor
SH on an IPSO 120/170 lb tumble dryer means the control reads a shorted thermistor: the temperature sensor circuit looks bridged, so the reading is meaningless and heat control is lost. Stop the dryer and let it cool. A gas smell means you leave the building and call the gas utility from outside.
High: heat control is lost on a gas or steam dryer.
- Code
- SH
- Maker
- IPSO
- Equipment
- Industrial laundry
- Applies to
- Tumble dryers 120/170 lb (TMB1268C family) micro control
What does IPSO error code SH mean?
The control watches a thermistor to know how hot the dryer air is, and the resistance of the sensor falls as temperature rises. A short makes it look as though the resistance has collapsed. The control recognizes that this is not a real reading and posts SH instead of acting on it. With the temperature signal gone, heat control is lost. Plant staff see a dryer that shuts down, stops heating or runs on timing alone. This is an older dryer line still working in many plants. Heat, lint buildup and pinched wire are the usual reasons for a short. Gas models call for caution: if you smell gas, leave and call the gas utility from outside. Do not try to keep drying by waiting for the dryer to "figure it out", because it cannot.
Affected models and control systems
IPSO 120/170 lb tumble dryers in the TMB1268C family with the micro control. Other controller generations use different codes.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- SH on the display
- Dryer shuts down or stops heating
- Loads come out damp or too hot
- Cycle ends on timing alone
Possible causes
Listed in IPSO's documentation
- Shorted thermistor circuit
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code SH on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A thermistor damaged by heat or lint buildup
- Sensor wire insulation pinched enough to short out
- Lint or dampness collecting where the sensor wiring runs
- A sensor input on the control that reads shorted behind SH
Safe checks before calling for service
- A gas smell means you leave the building and call the gas utility from outside.
- Otherwise, stop the dryer and let it cool.
- Keep away from the sensor and wiring.
- Contact us for a test with power off and gas closed.
How a technician diagnoses error code SH
- Read the code and confirm SH is steady.
- Shut off power and gas, and let the dryer cool.
- Inspect the thermistor and wire for crushed insulation or lint packed at the connection.
- Measure thermistor resistance against a reference temperature.
- Test the control input, then replace the sensor or harness as needed.
- The thermistor sits near the burner or coil, so tests need gas closed and the dryer cool. A shorted wire can mimic a bad sensor. Running with no heat control is a fire and damage risk.
How error code SH differs from similar codes
SH is a shorted sensor circuit. OP is the open version of the same sensor circuit.
Technical reference
- Document
- Tumble Dryers 120/170 lb Troubleshooting TMB1268C, Part No. 70399901R2, Dec 2016 (pp.53, 65)
- Edition
- Part No. 70399901R2, December 2016; models through serial no. 0907000048
- Models / control
- Tumble dryers 120/170 lb (TMB1268C family) micro control
- Section
- Hybrid Timer Control Troubleshooting - 31. Error Codes, printed p. 53 (PDF p. 55); On Premise Micro Control (RM) Troubleshooting - 36. Error Codes, printed p. 65 (PDF p. 67)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related IPSO industrial laundry error codes
Is the dryer safe to run on timing alone?
No. Without temperature control the load or the dryer can overheat.
Can lint cause SH?
Packed lint can hold moisture against the wiring or the sensor and contribute.
Will a restart fix SH?
Only if dampness dried out. A damaged sensor or wire keeps it coming back.
Need help with IPSO error code SH?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.