GE Dryer Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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If your GE dryer is displaying an error code, it means the appliance has detected a condition that may interrupt drying or affect performance. This guide explains the most common GE dryer error codes, what they usually mean, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Common GE Dryer Error Codes

E1 — Thermistor Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer cannot correctly read temperature.

Try this

  1. Turn the dryer off for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and try a short cycle.

Call service if

  • The error returns immediately.

E2 — Heater Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer is not heating as expected.

Try this

  1. Clean lint filter and vents.
  2. Restart and run a normal drying cycle.

Call service if

  • Clothes remain cold and damp.

E3 — Airflow Restricted

What it usually means

  • Restricted airflow has been detected.

Try this

  1. Clean lint filter thoroughly.
  2. Check exhaust vent for blockages or kinks.

Call service if

  • Drying times remain very long.

E4 — Door Switch Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not detected as closed.

Try this

  1. Close the door firmly.
  2. Remove laundry caught in the door seal.

Call service if

  • The dryer will not start.

E5 — Moisture Sensor Error

What it usually means

  • The dryer cannot correctly sense moisture levels.

Try this

  1. Clean moisture sensor bars inside the drum.
  2. Restart the dryer.

Call service if

  • The dryer stops too early or over-dries.

E6 — Motor Error

What it usually means

  • A problem has been detected with the drum motor.

Try this

  1. Reduce load size.
  2. Restart after turning power off.

Call service if

  • The drum does not rotate.

E7 — Motor Overheating

What it usually means

  • The motor has overheated due to airflow or load issues.

Try this

  1. Allow the dryer to cool completely.
  2. Clean filters and vents.
  3. Restart with a smaller load.

Call service if

  • The error returns quickly.

E8 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • An internal electronic control fault has been detected.

Try this

  1. Turn off power for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart the dryer.

Call service if

  • The dryer will not start.

AF — Airflow Warning

What it usually means

  • The dryer is detecting restricted airflow.

Try this

  1. Clean lint filter before each load.
  2. Inspect and clear the exhaust vent.

Call service if

  • The warning appears repeatedly.

PF — Power Failure

What it usually means

  • The dryer experienced a power interruption.

Try this

  1. Press Start to resume the cycle.
  2. Restart the dryer if needed.

Call service if

  • The message appears without a power outage.

How to Clear a GE Dryer Error Code

  1. Turn the dryer off.
  2. Switch 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

  • Heating errors that persist after cleaning vents
  • Motor or drum faults
  • Repeated overheating or airflow warnings
  • Control board errors

FAQ

Can blocked vents cause GE dryer error codes?

Yes. Restricted airflow is one of the most common causes of dryer errors.

Do GE dryer error codes vary by model?

Yes. Codes may vary slightly by model and region, but the meanings above apply to most GE dryers.

Is it safe to keep resetting the dryer?

Occasional resets are fine, but repeated resets without fixing the cause are not recommended.