Thermistor
A temperature sensor whose electrical resistance varies predictably with temperature.
Definition
A thermistor is a temperature sensor whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature, allowing the appliance controller to read precise temperatures throughout the cycle. Thermistors appear in dryers (drum air temperature), refrigerators (compartment temperatures), ovens (cavity temperature), and dishwashers (wash water temperature). Failed thermistors typically read either short circuit (always 'too hot') or open circuit (always 'too cold'), both of which the controller flags as faults. Thermistors are inexpensive parts but accessing them often requires significant disassembly.
Where this term appears
Thermistor comes up in product spec sheets, service reports, and troubleshooting documentation across most major appliance brands. If you encountered it in a manual or a service description and want context for how it fits into the larger picture, the related articles in the sidebar drill into the practical details. The glossary as a whole is intended as a quick lookup reference; for a deep dive on any specific topic, jump to the related buying guide or troubleshooting article.