GE Washer Error Code E6 — Water Temperature Error
What this means
The E6 error code on GE washers indicates the water temperature is outside the expected range for the selected wash cycle. The water may be too hot when a cold cycle is selected, or too cold when a hot cycle is selected. This is usually caused by reversed hot and cold water hose connections, a faulty water temperature sensor (thermistor), a stuck-open water inlet valve, or a water heater issue at the home level.
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsCheck the hot and cold hose connections
Pull the washer out and verify that the hot water hose is connected to the hot water valve and the cold water hose is connected to the cold water valve. Swapped hoses are a surprisingly common cause of this error.
Hot water valves typically have a red handle or are on the left side. Cold water valves have a blue handle or are on the right.
Test the water temperature at the supply
Run hot water at a nearby faucet and measure it with a thermometer. It should be at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the hot water is lukewarm, the issue is with your water heater, not the washer.
Also run the cold water and check — if your cold supply is warm (common in summer in some climates), the washer may detect it as too hot for cold cycles.
Test the water temperature sensor
Unplug the washer and locate the temperature sensor (thermistor), usually attached to the outer tub or sump area. Disconnect it and test with a multimeter. At room temperature, it should read approximately 10,000–12,000 ohms.
If the sensor reads 0 or OL, it has failed and needs replacement.
Check the water inlet valve
If the hoses are correct and the sensor is good, one of the water inlet valve solenoids may be stuck open, mixing hot and cold water incorrectly. Start a cold-only cycle and feel the water — if it is warm, the hot valve solenoid is leaking through.
A leaking inlet valve will also waste hot water even when the washer is not in use. Check for warm water dripping into the tub between cycles.
When to call a professional
If the hoses, sensor, and inlet valve all check out but the E6 code persists, the control board may not be switching the inlet valve solenoids correctly. A technician can test the board outputs.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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