Load. Start. Unload. Repeat. This familiar routine quickly jumps the tracks if one day your washer just doesn’t start. Why is my GE washer not turning on? It could be as simple as the Child Lock feature locking the controls. Learn the most common reasons your GE front load washer won’t start and the right solution to restore your routine.
GE Front Load Washer Won’t Start?
Try These Troubleshooting Tips.
While an incorrect setting or or power problems may have a simple DIY fix, part malfunctions typically require professional service. Here’s how to determine why your GE front load washer won’t start and how to resume its function.
Washing Machine Isn’t Getting Power
Whether you have a front load vs top load washer, neither will start without electrical power. It’s necessary to check all the washer’s power sources to make sure they’re working properly.
Here’s how to assess for power issues when your GE washer won’t start:
- Check the power cord: Make sure it’s completely plugged into a functioning outlet and free of damage.
- Avoid extension cords: They can’t reliably transmit the voltage a washer requires, resulting in surges that interrupt power.
- Look for tripped breakers: Check your home’s circuit breaker box and reset any tripped breakers.
If a power surge or failure interrupted your wash cycle it may be necessary to reset the washer. To do so, unplug the washer or turn it off at the circuit breaker for 2 minutes. After restoring power, reset the wash cycle again to resume function.
Washer Controls Are Locked
What if your GE washer turns on but won’t start? The Control Lock feature may be activated, preventing an accidental start. While this feature locks all control panel features, the Power button can still turn the washer on and off. When activated, the Control Lock icon on the digital display will illuminate.
To turn off Control Lock, press and hold the Lock button for 3 seconds. A beep or chime will sound and the icon will disappear.
Door is Not Fully Closed
As a safety precaution, and to avoid a leaky washing machine, a GE washer won’t start filling until the door is properly shut and latched. These washers also offer an additional safety feature at the start of each wash cycle. Before filling, the washer assesses the weight of the wash load and unlocks the door for 15 seconds. The door then automatically locks again and begins the wash cycle.
If the door doesn’t close and latch, check for trapped clothing that may be blocking proper closure. If no clothing is visible, the latch may be defective, preventing the door from closing or failing to electronically signal the door switch. Inspect the latch for damage and use a multimeter to check for continuity. If it’s broken or shows no continuity, the latch should be professionally replaced.
Problem With Washer Settings
Is your GE washer turning on but not starting? Check the control panel before starting a wash cycle to make sure it’s free of error codes and the right settings are selected. If an error code is displayed, refer to your user manual to determine its meaning and how to resolve the problem.
Image from GE
If no codes are displayed, the Delay Start feature may be accidentally activated. This setting delays the start of a wash cycle to a preselected later time. When activated, the Delay Start button will illuminate and display a countdown to the start time. To turn off Delay Start, press and hold the Start button for 3 seconds. The Delay Start button should turn off, indicating that the feature is disabled.
Broken GE Washer Parts
If all else fails, a GE washer not starting may have a broken part.
The following parts require a professional washing machine repair when they fail:
- Control Panel: If the washer has power but one or more of the control panel buttons don’t respond or illuminate, the control panel requires replacement.
- Timer: Provides voltage to different functions during a wash cycle. If it fails, the washer may not start, drain or spin at the appropriate time.
- Line fuse: When the washer circuits become overloaded the line fuse will blow. Before the fuse is replaced, the washer’s wiring should be assessed to determine why the circuit is overloaded or it will blow again.
Ortega’s Appliance Service can handle any GE washer repair. Call us for all your laundry appliance needs!
