E11 error on a GE washer: Expert troubleshooting advice without the high cost

If you’re seeing an E11 error code on a GE washer, it usually indicates that the washer is taking too long to fill with water. This error can occur on various GE top- and front-load models.

Let’s walk through each troubleshooting step so you can diagnose and clear the E11 code without calling an expensive technician.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE washer while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The error code information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What does the E11 error code mean?

On GE washers, error codes beginning with “E” signify that the electronic control board has detected a problem. The two digits that follow indicate the specific issue.

The E11 code usually appears when the washer doesn’t reach the correct water fill level within a preset time period. Essentially, it’s taking too long for the tub to fill.

This problem is most often caused by blocked or malfunctioning water inlet parts. Insufficient water pressure and a faulty electronic control board can also trigger the E11 code.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

How to troubleshoot the E11 error code

Follow these steps to clear the E11 fault code from your GE washing machine.

Step 1: Check the water supply valves

1. Unplug the washer from the power outlet.
2. Find the water supply valves on the wall behind the washer and make sure they’re open.
3. If needed, turn the knob of each valve counterclockwise until it stops to open the valve.

If the water supply valves are already open but you’re still seeing the E11 error, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Check the electrical connections

1. Make sure all wiring harness connectors are firmly plugged into the control board, water inlet valve, and pressure switch. Reseat any loose connections as needed.
2. Look over the entire length of wiring for any cuts, abrasions, or damaged insulation that could cause continuity issues.
3. Set a multimeter to continuity mode and use the probes to check for continuity in the wiring. If you don’t get continuity at any of the test points, replace the wiring.

If the wiring is damaged in any way, replace it.

If the wiring looks and tests good, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Inspect the inlet hoses

Turn off the water supply and look at the water inlet hoses that connect the valves to the back of the washer. Check for:

• Kinks or tight bends – Any sharp bends or kinks in the hose can obstruct water flow. Straighten out any bends or replace the hoses if necessary.
• Clogs – Sediment or mineral buildup inside the hoses can gradually restrict flow. Disconnect and inspect the hoses for any visible blockages. Flush or replace clogged hoses.
• Leaks – Small leaks along the hose length may block water flow. Check for dripping or damp areas. Replace the hoses if they’re leaking.
• Bad connections – Make sure the hoses are connected properly at both ends with no looseness or gaps. Tighten the connections as needed.

If the hoses look good, continue troubleshooting.

Step 4: Clean the water inlet screens

The inlet screens inside the water valve assemble filter debris from the incoming water supply. If they’re dirty or clogged, the E11 error could show up on your washer.

To access the screens:

1. Make sure the washer is unplugged.
2. Turn off the water supply to the washer and disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the machine.
3. Find the screens inside the inlet ports on the valve.
4. Use pliers to gently pull the screens out of the valve ports.
5. Rinse the screens under warm water to flush away any built-up sediment or minerals. You can also use a very gentle brush to scrub the screens if needed.
6. Dry the screens thoroughly.
7. Reinsert the clean screens back into the inlet ports and reconnect the water lines.
8. Turn on the washer and try to run a test cycle.

If the E11 error still shows up, continue on to the next step.

Step 5: Check the water pressure

Use a water pressure gauge to check the static pressure at the supply valves:

1. Attach the pressure gauge to a sink faucet.
2. Turn the washer on so it starts filling with water.
3. Turn on the water in the sink and note the pressure reading on the gauge.

The static water pressure to the washer should be between 30-120 PSI. If the static pressure is below 30 PSI, contact a licensed plumber to boost the water pressure.

If the water pressure is good, continue to the next step.

Step 6: Test the water inlet valve solenoids

GE washers use electrically operated inlet valves controlled by internal solenoids. Faulty solenoids that fail to open can prevent water from entering the washer.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

To test the solenoids:

1. Access the inlet valve solenoids on the valve body.
2. Set a multimeter to the Volts AC mode.
3. Use the meter probes to check the voltage when the washer should be filling.

If there’s voltage present but water doesn’t come through, then you’ll need to replace the valves.

If there’s no voltage, continue troubleshooting.

Read more: How To Use A Multimeter To Check Appliance Parts

Step 7: Check the pressure switch

The pressure switch regulates water fill levels inside the washer tub. Malfunctions with this switch can potentially cause an E11 error code.

Examine the pressure switch tube and fittings for the following:

• Blockages or kinks in the plastic pressure tube – Clear any obstructions that you find.
• Incorrect installation of the pressure tube fittings at both ends – Tighten it if it’s loose.
• Damage to the pressure switch – Replace the switch if its contacts are worn or damaged.

If everything has checked out OK so far, the final part to test is the control board.

Step 8: Test the control board

1. Make sure the washer is plugged in and the water supply is turned on.
2. Enter diagnostic mode to start a test fill cycle. Consult your machine’s service manual to find the keypad sequence needed to enter diagnostic mode.
3. Check if the control sends 120 Volts AC to the valve solenoids when they’re activated by the test cycle. If voltage isn’t present, that means there’s a problem with the control board.
4. Turn off the washer, then disconnect and reseat all connections on the control board.
5. Turn the washer back on and see if the E11 error still appears.
6. If the E11 error persists, replace the board.

Read more: Making Your Home Appliances Last Longer: An Overview of Average Lifespans

More information

Thanks for stopping by! We hope this guide helped you clear the E11 error from your GE washing machine.

If you run into any issues, just give us a call at 1-877-477-7278 or start a chat with a pro on our website so we can help you through it. We’ve got many more troubleshooting and repair guides on our DIY blog and YouTube channel, plus all the parts you need to do it yourself at AppliancePartsPros.com. 

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