Here’s the deal: the “HE” error code on a GE washing machine typically indicates a heating error. This means that your washing machine is having trouble heating the water to the desired temperature for your selected cycle. Just like how a kettle boils water to make your favorite cup of tea, washing machines need to heat water for certain cycles to ensure your clothes are cleaned properly. When something goes awry with this process, it triggers the “HE” code.
Understanding this error can save you a lot of guesswork and help you get back to your laundry duties quickly. In the sections that follow, we’ll break down what could cause this error, how you might fix it, and what steps you can take to prevent it from happening again.
Why Does the “HE” Error Code Occur?
You might be wondering why your GE washing machine would run into a heating issue. After all, it’s designed to handle exactly these tasks! The most common reason for an “HE” code is a malfunction with the machine’s heating element.Think of the heating element like the coil in a toaster. If it doesn’t heat up, your bread stays cold. Similarly, if the heating element in your washing machine isn’t working, the water won’t reach the necessary temperature.
Sometimes, external factors play a role in this error. For instance, if the water supply is too cold or there is a problem with the electrical connection to the heating element, it can result in insufficient heating. Imagine trying to make hot cocoa with lukewarm water; it’s just not going to taste right because the heat isn’t there to dissolve the cocoa properly.
Another potential cause could be the thermostat, which acts like the machine’s thermometer. If it’s on the fritz, it might misread the temperature and send incorrect signals, triggering the error code. Lastly, a glitch in the washing machine’s control board could be causing the issue, similar to a computer having a software bug.
How Can You Fix the “HE” Error Code?
Now that we understand why this error might occur, let’s dive into how you can address it. Before you start, remember to always unplug your machine from the electrical outlet to ensure your safety. It’s a bit like putting on a safety helmet before riding a bike — a crucial step!
First, check the simple things: is there an issue with the water supply? Make sure that both the hot and cold water connections are properly connected and that the valves are open. If the water is too cold, you may need to adjust your home’s water heater settings.
If the water supply seems fine, it’s time to look at the heating element. If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, you can use a multimeter to test whether the heating element is still functioning. If it resembles a burnt-out light bulb, where it fails to conduct electricity, you might need to replace it. Alternatively, contacting a professional technician for this task is a wise choice if you’re unsure.
Don’t forget the thermostat! Ensuring it’s working correctly is important. A faulty thermostat can be replaced with a new one to resolve inaccurate temperature readings. Lastly, a system reset can sometimes clear the error if it’s due to a software glitch. Consult your machine’s manual for instructions on how to perform a reset, akin to rebooting a computer.
Preventing Future “HE” Errors
Nobody likes to deal with repeated errors interrupting their chores. So how can you avoid encountering the “HE” error code in the future? Regular maintenance is key, much like routine check-ups for a car.
To start, consistently check and maintain your washing machine’s hoses and water supply. Ensure that no kinks are interrupting water flow and that the connections are secure. It’s also a good idea to occasionally inspect the heating element and thermostat, particularly if your machine seems to struggle with heating regularly.
Keep an eye on your home’s water heater settings. Ensuring it’s set to provide adequately hot water can prevent unnecessary stress on the machine’s internal heater. A little tweak here can save you a lot of hassle later.
Lastly, consider scheduling a professional service check every once in a while. Much like getting a professional to service your car, this helps catch potential issues early. By staying proactive, you can extend the lifespan of your machine and keep it running smoothly without unexpected interruptions.
In conclusion, while encountering the “HE” error code on your GE washing machine can be annoying, it’s not insurmountable. With a bit of patience and know-how, you’ll not only solve the problem but also prevent it from becoming a recurrent issue. Here’s hoping your future laundry days remain error-free and full of fresh, clean clothes!
