GE Dryer Error Code 005: Easy Solutions and Troubleshooting

Seeing an error code flash on your GE dryer’s display can be confusing and concerning. Error 005 indicates an issue with the EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) chip on the main control board. This integrated circuit stores vital operational data that must be accurate for proper dryer function. With some fundamental knowledge and safe DIY best practices, you can often resolve this issue on your own and avoid an expensive appliance technician visit.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance 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.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What causes error code 005 to appear?

When the control board detects a checksum mismatch, it will display error code 005 to indicate the EEPROM data corruption. Several factors can lead to this:

EEPROM hardware failure

• The EEPROM chip itself may be failing electrically, leading to data errors during reads and writes. This is common with age.

Poor solder connections

• Cracked solder joints between the chip lead and circuit board pads can cause data errors and checksum mismatches.

Excessive electrical noise

• The sensitive EEPROM can be disrupted by electrical noise inside the dryer’s metal frame during operation. Some data corruption may result.

The role of the EEPROM chip

The EEPROM chip on the main control board is not just random electronics. It serves a vital role:

• This specialized memory chip stores critical operational parameters, usage history, cycle data, and other information required by the control board firmware.
• Data is organized by the software into “pages” that are written to the EEPROM during normal dryer operation.
• Each time a page is written, a checksum value is calculated by the software and stored on the chip.
• Later, when reading that page, the checksum is recalculated and compared to the original. If they mismatch, the data becomes corrupted.
• The control board continually reads EEPROM data to optimize dryer performance across laundry loads.

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 attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• 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.

Troubleshooting steps

Here are the steps required to diagnose and repair error code 005:

Step 1: Retest dryer operation

1. Reassemble the dryer, restore power, and initiate a test cycle. Sometimes, error 05 is caused by a simple loose chip connection easily resolved by reflowing.
2. However, if error 05 persists, the EEPROM itself or control board will need replacement.

Step 2: Access the main control board

1. Begin by unplugging the dryer from the electrical outlet and implementing proper lockout/tagout procedures. Safety is paramount when working with live electrical circuits.
2. Carefully remove the top panel and control panel to access the large main control board mounted to the rear cabinet panel.

Step 3: Replace the main control board

1. Since the EEPROM chip is surface mounted directly to the board, it cannot be replaced independently.
2. The entire main control board assembly will need to be replaced. Be sure to order the correct part number for your specific model.
3. When installing the new board, consider reflowing the solder joints under the EEPROM as a preventative measure.

Step 4: Verify normal operation

After board replacement, reassemble the dryer, power it up, and run it through a full test cycle with a load. Error 05 should no longer appear.

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope you found this information useful to get your dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our thousands of free videos and troubleshooting guides available. If you need replacement parts or some extra help, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, order parts, read our DIY blog, and more.

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