Hotpoint Dryer Error Code E1 — Thermistor Open/Short
What this means
The E1 error on Hotpoint dryers indicates the exhaust thermistor has either an open circuit (broken connection) or a short circuit. The thermistor monitors the exhaust air temperature to regulate heat. When it fails, the dryer may not heat at all or may shut down immediately after starting to protect against overheating.
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsUnplug the dryer and locate the thermistor
Disconnect power. The exhaust thermistor is typically located on the blower housing or exhaust duct inside the dryer. Remove the back panel or lower front panel to access it.
On Hotpoint/GE dryers, the thermistor is a small cylindrical probe with two wires.
Check the wiring connections
Inspect the wire harness connector to the thermistor. Look for burnt, loose, or corroded terminals. Reseat the connector firmly.
A loose connector is the most common cause of this error — the fix might be as simple as pushing the plug back in.
Test the thermistor with a multimeter
Disconnect the thermistor wires and measure resistance. At room temperature, a good thermistor typically reads around 10,000–11,000 ohms. An open (infinite) or shorted (near 0) reading means it has failed.
If the reading is borderline, warm the sensor with your hand — resistance should drop smoothly. Erratic jumps indicate a failing sensor.
Replace the thermistor
Remove the mounting screw or clip holding the thermistor in place. Install the new thermistor, reconnect the wires, and reassemble the panel. Run a timed dry cycle to verify.
Thermistors are inexpensive — if yours reads borderline, replace it rather than waiting for a complete failure.
When to call a professional
If the thermistor tests fine and the wiring is intact, the electronic control board may be misreading the signal and should be professionally diagnosed.
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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