How to fix GE window air conditioner error code e8

GE air conditioners are popular for their efficiency and reliability as they provide comfort and cool air during the hot summer months. But like any other appliance, these air conditioners can occasionally display error codes that indicate a specific issue. 

If you’re able to understand and troubleshoot these error codes, you can save yourself a lot of time and money. And we’re here to help you through the process! Let’s get your GE AC back to cooling.

The troubleshooting information provided 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 E8 error mean?  

When the E8 error code appears, the air conditioner may have inconsistent cooling or the unit may completely shut down. 

Several factors may lead to the E8 error code, including:

• A faulty or damaged temperature sensor
• A malfunctioning control board
• Issues with the power supply or voltage fluctuations
• A unit that’s working in extremely high heat or humidity

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.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting when testing. 
• 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.
• 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.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 

How to troubleshoot the E8 error code

Step 1 – Check the environment

• Make sure the outdoor unit is not blocked by any plants or debris, which can restrict airflow and contribute to overheating.
• Clean or replace the air filter to reduce strain on the unit.
• Gently clean the evaporator coils with a soft brush or vacuum to remove any accumulated dirt.
• Use a fan to improve air circulation in the room.
• Use shades, blinds, or curtains to block direct sunlight from entering the room so the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.
• Seal any gaps or cracks in windows and doors to prevent hot air from entering the room and cool air from escaping.
• Check the temperature setting. If you can, set your air conditioner to a slightly higher temperature, which can reduce strain on the unit without compromising comfort.
• Are there any heat-generating appliances being used in the room? Avoid using these during the hottest part of the day to keep a cooler environment.

Step 2 – Check for power supply issues

• Perform a reset according to your air conditioner’s manual to see if the error code is caused by a power surge or glitch. This typically involves pressing specific buttons on the control panel or remote.
• Make sure the air conditioner is plugged in securely and that the outlet is functioning correctly.
• Check the circuit breaker to make sure it hasn’t tripped. Reset the breaker if necessary.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the AC unit 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.

Use a multimeter set to VAC to test the voltage at the outlet. The reading on your meter should be around 120V. If it’s not, contact a qualified electrician. 

If you get 120V on your meter, move on to the next step.

Step 3 – Inspect the temperature sensor

1. Turn off the unit and unplug it to avoid any accidental start-ups or electrical shocks.
2. Remove the front grille by taking out the screws or clips that hold it in place. 
3. Gently pull the grille away from the unit to access the interior.
4. Find the temperature sensor on the back wall of the air conditioner, near the top. (It may be labeled as “T1” or “T2” on the wiring diagram.)
5. Make sure the wiring is properly connected to the wiring harness. Check for any damage to the wires from the sensor to the electrical board. If there’s any visible damage, replace the wiring.
6. Clean the sensor using a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or debris.
7. Use a multimeter to test the temperature sensor. Set the multimeter to the resistance (ohms Ω) function and touch the leads to the terminals of the temperature sensor. The resistance reading should change as the temperature changes. Note the resistance reading at room temperature and compare it to the chart in your model’s tech sheet. 

If the temperature sensor is damaged or tests bad, replace it with a new one.

Step 4 – Check the control board and electrical connections

1. Carefully remove the air conditioner’s control panel cover to access the control board.
2. Inspect the control board for any signs of damage, such as burnt components or bulging capacitors. If you see any obvious signs of damage, replace the board.
3. Check all wiring connections to the control board. Make sure they’re secure and free of corrosion. Replace the wiring if it’s damaged in any way.

Step 5 – Reset the air conditioner

1. Restore power to the air conditioner.
2. Perform a reset according to your air conditioner’s manual, which typically involves pressing specific buttons on the control panel or remote.
3. Monitor the air conditioner as it runs to make sure the E8 error code has been cleared.

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you clear the E8 error on your GE air conditioner.

If you need any replacement parts for your GE air conditioner, 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.

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Read more: 

How to Clean Your Air Conditioner the Easy Way

Choosing An Air Conditioner: How Many BTUs Do I Need?

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