This guide provides detailed troubleshooting steps for the GE Error Code E04, typically indicating a fault in the drying system’s temperature sensor.
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# How to Fix GE Error E04 (Outlet Thermistor Shorted)
The E04 error code is a common issue, primarily affecting GE combo washer/dryer units or dedicated GE dryers, although it may appear on high-end washers with integrated drying capabilities.
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## 1. Explanation: What E04 Means in Plain English
The E04 error code translates to **”Outlet Thermistor Shorted”**.
* **Thermistor:** This is a crucial temperature sensor (often referred to as the Dryer Thermistor) that monitors the air temperature exiting the heating element or leaving the drum. It ensures the machine does not overheat and prevents fire hazards.
* **Shorted:** This means the sensor is failing to provide a proper resistance reading to the main control board (PC board). When a thermistor shorts, it often reads 0 Ohms (zero resistance), which tells the control board that the sensor has failed electrically.
* **The Result:** The control board cannot accurately measure or regulate temperature, so it shuts down the drying or heating cycle to protect the appliance, displaying E04.
The likely culprit for this failure is the **Dryer Thermistor** itself.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose and Replace the Thermistor
Before starting, ensure you have a basic Phillips or hex head screwdriver and a Multimeter capable of measuring resistance (Ohms – Ω).
### Step 1: Safety First (Crucial)
1. **Unplug:** Locate the machine’s power cord and disconnect it completely from the wall outlet.
2. **Water (If Applicable):** If this is a washer/dryer combo, turn off the water supply valves.
3. **Access:** Move the machine away from the wall to gain access to the back panel.
### Step 2: Locate the Outlet Thermistor
The Dryer Thermistor is typically located along the path of the exhaust air, near the blower housing or the heater element housing.
1. **Remove the Access Panel:** Use your screwdriver to remove the screws holding the rear service panel in place.
2. **Identify the Component:** Look for a small, cylindrical sensor that clips or screws into the metal ductwork. It will have two small wires leading back to the wiring harness. This is the Outlet Thermistor (Dryer Thermistor).
3. **Disconnect Wires:** Carefully disconnect the wires leading to the thermistor.
### Step 3: Test the Thermistor Using a Multimeter
The most effective way to confirm the short is by testing the component’s resistance (Ohms).
1. **Set the Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the Ohms (Ω) setting, preferably in the 20K (20,000) range.
2. **Test the Leads:** Place the multimeter probes onto the two terminals of the disconnected thermistor.
3. **Check the Reading:**
* **GOOD Reading:** At room temperature (around 70°F), a GE Outlet Thermistor should typically read between **10kΩ and 50kΩ** (10,000 to 50,000 Ohms). This reading indicates the sensor is functioning.
* **SHORTED/BAD Reading:** If the thermistor is shorted, the multimeter will read extremely low, often **0.00 Ω** or very close to it. This confirms the sensor has failed electrically and must be replaced.
### Step 4: Replace the Faulty Thermistor
If the multimeter test confirms a short (0.00 Ω reading):
1. **Remove the Old Thermistor:** Unscrew or unclip the faulty sensor from the ductwork.
2. **Install the New Thermistor:** Attach the new thermistor in the exact orientation of the old one.
3. **Reconnect:** Connect the two wires back onto the new sensor terminals.
4. **Reassemble:** Screw the rear access panel back onto the machine.
5. **Test:** Plug the machine back in and run a drying cycle. The E04 error should now be resolved.
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## 3. Call to Action
If your multimeter test confirmed the component is shorted, replacing the thermistor is the guaranteed solution.
**Check the price for a replacement Dryer Thermistor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=GE+Dryer+Thermistor&tag=trivian-20**
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