GE Washer andDryer Error Codes, Explained

GE laundry works a little differently from most brands. GE’s washers show a short list of messages meant for the owner, which GE calls the Consumer Help Indicator, and for its standard dryers GE publishes alerts like Check Vent rather than a list of numbered codes. Below is what GE’s own support pages say each message means, and the remedy GE gives. GE notes that messages vary by model. Codes differ between models and generations, so check what your own manual says against the model number on the plate — here is where to find it.

GE washers

dE (E2 on some models) — lid open

GE says the lid has been opened, so the washer pauses. The code flashes for about 30 seconds, then the washer shuts off.

• Close the lid and start the cycle again.

UE — unbalanced load

GE says the load is unbalanced.

• Spread the laundry evenly around the basket.
• Make sure the washer sits level.

Spin light blinking — balancing the load

GE says the washer has found an out-of-balance load and is working to correct it. Sometimes it can’t, and won’t reach full spin speed.

• If the load comes out wetter than usual, spread it evenly and run a Drain & Spin or Spin cycle.

IE, H2O SUPPLY, or Wash and Rinse lights blinking — no water coming in

GE says water isn’t getting into the washer. Once the message starts, the controls lock for 4 minutes, and unplugging the washer starts the 4 minutes again.

• Check the water taps behind the washer are turned on. GE’s examples: taps left off after installation, or after a trip away.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

Po, or the Rinse light flashing — slow to drain

On 2015 and newer models, GE says the washer took too long to drain and there may be a clog.

• Give it a moment first: GE says pauses of up to 3 minutes between stages are normal on many models.
• Check the drain hose isn’t kinked or clogged.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

FE — water too high

GE says the water has reached a critical level.

Turn off the water and the power to the washer, and call for service.

Lid — the lid hasn’t been opened

GE says this shows when three cycles have been started without opening the lid. The washer won’t start another until it is.

• Open the lid, close it, and start a new cycle.

If it keeps showing, GE says contact service.

CAnCELEd — cycle cancelled

GE says this shows when the washer was paused for more than 24 hours, or stopped itself before the cycle finished because of certain errors. The controls lock for 4 minutes.

• Wait out the 4 minutes, then start the cycle again.

If it keeps happening, GE says contact service.

GE dryers

Check Vent — not enough air getting out

Some GE dryers have a sensor that notices when too little air is leaving the dryer. GE says the alert means the vent is blocked, and to check and clean it as soon as possible.

• Unplug the dryer, disconnect the duct from it, and vacuum the duct.
• Check the flaps on the outside vent hood move freely, and that nothing has nested in the duct or hood.

GE also says to clean the vent at least once a year, alert or not. If the alert stays, the vent run itself likely needs cleaning — see dryer duct cleaning.

A code that isn’t listed here

GE doesn’t publish a code list for its standard dryers the way it does for its washers. If your dryer shows a code that isn’t in your manual, write it down along with the model number: it helps whoever diagnoses it.

GE Profile UltraFast Combo (washer and dryer in one)

18 — pump filter needs cleaning

GE says the drain pump filter needs cleaning. You may also notice very wet loads, or drying taking longer than it used to.

• Clean the drain pump filter, following your manual.
• Make sure the drain hose isn’t pushed too far down the standpipe.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

353 — lint filter clogged

GE says this most often means the lint filter is clogged with fabric softener residue.

• Separate the foam filter from the plastic mesh screen. Rinse the foam with warm water, and clean the screen with water and a soft brush.
• Put it back and run a wash-and-dry cycle.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

Check and Clean Drain Pump Filter

GE says the combo has found a restriction in the drain, often a loose item caught in the pump filter. Your manual shows how to clean it.

Confirm H2O Supply is ON

The combo can’t get water. Check the supply taps are on. The controls lock for 4 minutes once the message starts.

DOOR OPEN

The door isn’t fully closed. Shut it firmly and start again.

Where this comes from

Every meaning above is the manufacturer’s own, from its support pages:

• GE Appliances — Washer: Consumer Help Indicator
• GE Appliances — Frequently asked questions about GE washers
• GE Appliances — Dryer: Check Vent sensor alert
• GE Appliances — GE Profile UltraFast Combo: fault and error codes

A code tells you where the machine gave up, not always why. If the simple checks don’t clear it, that’s what a diagnosis is for.