Electric GE dryer only runs when the start button is held down: A troubleshooting guide

If your electric GE dryer only starts when you hold down the start button and stops running when you let go of the button, this can be a frustrating problem. Fortunately, this type of issue is fairly easy to diagnose and repair yourself, and we’re here for you along the way.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE dryer while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Watch the troubleshooting process here

What you need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Multimeter

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

How to troubleshoot the dryer

Follow these steps to find out what’s going wrong in your GE dryer and how to fix it.

Step 1: Access the inside of the dryer

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws at the top of the front panel, just behind the door.
3. Lift the top panel up slightly to clear the console legs, then pull the front panel forward to remove it.

Step 2: Inspect the dryer belt

Find the belt and check for any slack or signs of damage. If the belt is loose or broken, it will need to be replaced.

If the belt is in good condition, continue troubleshooting.

Step 3: Check the belt switch

1. Find the belt switch, which is positioned next to the motor and idler pulley arm.
2. Set your multimeter to continuity mode.
3. Place the meter probes on the switch terminals and move the idler pulley to the same position it would be in with the belt on.

Check the meter. It should make a beeping sound if there’s continuity (good). If you don’t get continuity, then the belt switch needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Test the motor

If the previous steps did not reveal the issue, the motor is likely the problem. To make sure:

1. Disconnect the wires from the motor terminals.
2. Set your multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
3. Place the meter probes on terminals 5 and 4 of the motor.
4. Check the meter reading. The resistance should be between 4.1 to 4.9 Ohms.
5. Activate the centrifugal switch on the motor. When you do this, the resistance should change to 4 Ohms.

If the resistance readings are outside of these ranges, the motor will need to be replaced.

How to reassemble the dryer after making repairs

1. Install the drum and belt. Make sure the belt is firmly on the motor pulley.
2. Reconnect the door switch wires.
3. Secure the front panel with the screws.
4. Slide the top panel back onto the console legs, rotate it down, and secure it with the long Phillips screws.
5. Plug the dryer back in.

Read more:  Electric GE dryer won’t start: A troubleshooting guide

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your electric GE dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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