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The HE error on your Ge Dryer means the control board has detected a problem with the heating element circuit — either it isn’t heating when it should, or it’s staying on when it shouldn’t. This usually points to a faulty heater element, a bad thermal fuse, or a wiring/relay issue on the control board.
| Error code | HE |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Heater element error — heating circuit fault detected |
| Severity | Medium — dryer may still tumble but won’t heat properly, or may shut down for safety |
| Time to fix | 30–60 minutes |
| Tools needed | Multimeter, nut driver or screwdriver, work gloves |
What the HE error means
GE dryers use a sensor to monitor the temperature rise inside the drum after the heater turns on. If the control board doesn’t see the expected temperature change within a set time, it flags the HE code. This can mean the heating element itself has burned out, or that power isn’t reaching it due to a tripped thermal fuse, thermal cutoff, or a bad connection.
On electric models, this is almost always related to the heating element assembly or the safety devices wired in series with it. On gas models, the code can point to the igniter or gas valve coils instead, since there’s no traditional heating element.
Common causes
- Burned-out heating element (electric dryers)
- Tripped thermal fuse or thermal cutoff cutting power to the heater
- Faulty high-limit thermostat
- Loose or corroded wiring connections at the heater or terminal block
- Failed gas valve coils or igniter (gas dryers)
- Bad control board relay for the heating circuit
How to fix the HE error
- Unplug the dryer and pull it out — Always disconnect power before opening the back or cabinet panel to check heating parts.
- Test the thermal fuse — Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If it reads open (no continuity), replace it — a blown thermal fuse usually means airflow was restricted at some point.
- Check the heating element for continuity — Remove the element assembly and test it with a multimeter. No continuity means the element coil has burned out and needs replacing.
- Inspect wiring and connectors — Look for scorched, loose, or corroded connections at the heater terminals and repair or reconnect as needed.
- Clean the vent system — Restricted airflow causes overheating and repeated element failures, so check the exhaust duct and lint trap while you’re in there.
- Reset and test — Plug the dryer back in, run a timed dry cycle, and confirm it heats properly without throwing the HE code again.
FAQ
Can I run my dryer if it shows an HE error?
You can usually still tumble clothes, but the dryer won’t heat properly, so cycles will take much longer or leave clothes damp. It’s best to fix the issue rather than run it long-term.
Why does my heating element keep failing?
Repeated element failures are often caused by restricted airflow from a clogged vent or lint trap, which makes the element overheat and burn out faster than normal.
Is the HE error the same on gas and electric dryers?
No — on electric dryers it usually points to the heating element itself, while on gas dryers it more often relates to the igniter or gas valve coils since there’s no traditional element.
