GE Washer Error Codes

Below are the most common GE washer error codes (also applies to Hotpoint, Haier). Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.

Safety Warning

1 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.

Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes

Code E22 Code E31 Code E42 Code E61 Code E23 Code E41 Code E52 Code E71 Code E35 Code PF

GE Code E22: Fill timeout — washer taking too long to fill with water

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $120 – $275

Common Causes

  • Water supply faucets not fully open
  • Clogged inlet screens or water supply hoses
  • Low water pressure in the home
  • Faulty water inlet valve

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Verify both hot and cold water supply faucets are fully open.
  2. Turn off the water supply, disconnect the fill hoses, and clean the inlet mesh screens.
  3. Check hoses for kinks. Ensure water pressure is adequate.
  4. Reconnect hoses and run a test cycle.

Call a professional when: Water supply is good and screens are clear but the washer still will not fill — the water inlet valve needs replacement.

GE Code E31: Slow drain — washer draining slower than expected

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Clogged drain pump filter or trap
  • Kinked or partially blocked drain hose
  • Household drain or standpipe partially clogged
  • Drain pump beginning to fail

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check the drain trap (if your model has one) and clean out any debris, coins, or small items.
  2. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or partial blockages.
  3. Verify the standpipe or household drain is not clogged.
  4. Run a drain/spin cycle to test.

Call a professional when: Drain paths are clear but the washer still drains slowly — the drain pump is failing and needs replacement.

GE Code E42: Motor drive error — motor operation above design limits

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $475

Common Causes

  • Shipping bolts not removed on a new installation
  • Jammed motor or tub
  • Overloaded washer
  • Defective drive motor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. For new installations, check the rear of the washer and remove all shipping bolts.
  2. Reduce the load size — an overloaded basket strains the motor.
  3. Try spinning the drum by hand. If it does not turn freely, something is jamming it.
  4. Unplug for 1 minute to reset, then test with a small load.

Call a professional when: Shipping bolts are removed and the drum turns freely, but the code persists — the drive motor or motor control board needs professional diagnosis.

GE Code E61: Door lock failure — door cannot lock or unlock properly

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • Faulty door lock assembly
  • Wiring issue between the control and the door latch
  • Bent or damaged door strike
  • Failed main control board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check the door latch and strike for visible damage or debris.
  2. Ensure the door closes fully and the latch engages with a click.
  3. Unplug the washer for 1 minute to reset, then try again.
  4. Clean the door latch area of detergent residue.

Call a professional when: The door latches properly but the code persists — the door lock assembly or its wiring needs professional replacement.

GE Code E23: Drain timeout — washer cannot drain within the time limit

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Severely clogged drain pump or filter
  • Blocked drain hose
  • Failed drain pump motor
  • Household plumbing blockage

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Clean the drain pump filter/trap of all debris.
  2. Check the drain hose for blockages — disconnect and flush with water.
  3. Verify the household drain is flowing by pouring water directly into the standpipe.
  4. Run a drain/spin cycle to test.

Call a professional when: All drain paths are clear but the washer will not drain — the drain pump has failed and needs replacement.

GE Code E41: Door lock error — door switch failure during lock

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $275

Common Causes

  • Defective door lock switch
  • Wiring issue in the door lock circuit
  • Object preventing door from seating
  • Control board fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Open the door, check for obstructions, and close firmly.
  2. Inspect the door seal for items caught in it.
  3. Unplug for 1 minute and restart.
  4. Check the door latch mechanism for visible damage.

Call a professional when: The door closes properly but will not lock — the door lock assembly needs professional replacement.

GE Code E52: Motor speed signal lost — motor feedback error

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $475

Common Causes

  • Loose motor wiring harness connection
  • Failed motor speed sensor
  • Drive motor failure
  • Control board malfunction

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the washer for 1 minute to reset the control board.
  2. Reduce the load size and try again — overloading can strain the motor.
  3. Try spinning the drum by hand to check for obstructions.

Call a professional when: The code persists with a small load — the motor, speed sensor, or control board needs professional diagnosis.

GE Code E71: Water temperature sensor error — thermistor fault

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $275

Common Causes

  • Failed water temperature sensor (thermistor)
  • Loose wiring at the sensor
  • Control board not reading the sensor correctly

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset.
  2. Run a cold water cycle — if the washer works on cold, the hot water supply or temperature sensor is the issue.
  3. Check that your water heater is providing hot water to the washer.

Call a professional when: The code persists — the water temperature sensor needs professional testing and replacement.

GE Code E35: Water level pressure switch error — overfill protection triggered

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $325

Common Causes

  • Water inlet valve stuck open allowing overfill
  • Pressure switch or sensor failure
  • Pressure switch hose disconnected or clogged

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off the water supply behind the washer immediately.
  2. Unplug the washer. Check if water continues entering — if so, the inlet valve is stuck.
  3. Check the pressure switch hose for disconnection or cracks.
  4. Run a drain/spin cycle to remove excess water.

Call a professional when: Water enters with the washer off — the inlet valve must be replaced. If the valve is fine, the pressure switch needs diagnosis.

GE Code PF: Power failure — power was interrupted during a cycle

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $0 – $150

Common Causes

  • Power outage occurred during a wash cycle
  • Circuit breaker tripped
  • Washer was accidentally unplugged

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press the Start/Pause button to resume the interrupted cycle.
  2. Or press Cancel to drain the washer and start a new cycle.
  3. If the breaker tripped, reset it and restart.

Call a professional when: The breaker trips repeatedly when the washer runs — there may be an electrical fault requiring professional diagnosis.

Need GE Repair in Central Texas?

Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for GE , Hotpoint, Haier, and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.

Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.

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