GE Washing Machine Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

by

If your GE washing machine is displaying an error code, this guide explains what the code usually means, the most common causes, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Note: GE error codes vary by model (front load vs top load, newer Smart models). The explanations below cover the most common modern GE washers.

Common GE Washing Machine Error Codes

E1 — Drain Error

What it usually means

  • The washer is not draining water within the expected time.

Try this

  1. Power off at the wall for 5 minutes.
  2. Clean the drain pump filter (front-load models).
  3. Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
  4. Ensure the standpipe or sink trap is clear.

Call service if

  • The pump runs but water does not drain.

E2 — Fill Error

What it usually means

  • The washer is not filling with water correctly.

Try this

  1. Make sure the water tap is fully open.
  2. Check inlet hoses for kinks.
  3. Clean the inlet hose filter screens.
  4. Confirm household water pressure is normal.

Call service if

  • The washer does not fill at all after checks.

E3 — Door Lock Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not locking or being detected as locked.

Try this

  1. Re-close the door firmly.
  2. Remove laundry caught in the door seal.
  3. Power off for 2 minutes and retry.

Call service if

  • The door will not lock or unlock.

E4 — Water Level / Pressure Error

What it usually means

  • The washer detects an abnormal water level.

Try this

  1. Check for excessive foam from too much detergent.
  2. Ensure the drain hose is not inserted too far into the standpipe.
  3. Restart after correcting detergent usage.

Call service if

  • The washer continues to overfill or underfill.

E5 — Temperature Sensor Error

What it usually means

  • A fault with the water temperature sensor.

Try this

  1. Power off at the wall for 5 minutes.
  2. Run a cold wash to test operation.

Call service if

  • E5 returns repeatedly.

E6 — Motor Error

What it usually means

  • The motor or motor control is not operating correctly.

Try this

  1. Reduce load size and redistribute items.
  2. Ensure the washer is level.
  3. Power off for 10 minutes and retry.

Call service if

  • E6 appears on small loads or immediately on start.

E7 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • A communication or logic error in the control system.

Try this

  1. Power off for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and run a short cycle.

Call service if

  • The error reappears (control board diagnosis required).

How to Clear a GE Washing Machine Error Code

  1. Turn the washing machine off.
  2. Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and start a short test cycle.

If the error returns immediately, it usually indicates an active fault.

When to Call Service

  • Persistent drain or fill errors
  • Repeated motor or control board faults
  • Door lock errors that prevent operation
  • Burning smells, tripped breakers, or visible leaks

FAQ

Are GE washer error codes the same on all models?

No. Codes vary by model type, but the underlying issues (drain, fill, motor) are similar.

Can detergent cause GE washer error codes?

Yes. Excess detergent can cause foam-related drain and water-level errors.

Is it safe to keep resetting the washer?

No. Repeated resets without fixing the cause can damage components.