How to replace a GE dryer’s rotary switch like a pro

Is your GE electric dryer refusing to start? The culprit might be a faulty rotary switch, a common issue after extended use. Don’t worry, our step-by-step guide and video below will walk you through fixing it yourself, saving you a costly service call!

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

On a GE electric dryer, the rotary switch (also called a rotate-to-start switch) completes the circuit when the dryer door is closed so the unit can start tumbling and heating. After a long period of use, the rotary switch can wear out or become damaged.

But fear not! You’re in the right place to learn how to tackle this repair yourself so you can save a huge chunk of change and get your dryer working again.

If you need any replacement parts for your GE dryer, 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 part replacement information provided in this article is based on model DBSR453EB3WW and may not apply to your specific appliance model. Consult the technical sheet for your specific appliance model for the most accurate guidance.

Watch: How To Replace A GE Electric Dryer Rotate-To-Start Switch WE4M519

What you need

• Replacement rotary switch (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model before installing)
• Torx 20 driver
• Flathead screwdriver

Read more:  Electric GE dryer won’t start: A troubleshooting guide

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.
• 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.

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

How to replace the rotary switch

Ready? Follow these easy steps to change out a bad rotary switch in a GE dryer.

1. Make sure the unit is unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Remove the switch knob, then gently pull the knob straight off the shaft.
3. Use a Torx 20 screwdriver to remove the two screws at the top of the console.
4. Carefully rotate the top of the console forward so you can access the internal parts.
5. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently lift the locking tab so you can release the switch from the console.
6. Rotate and pull the original switch out of the console.
7. Line the new switch up with the opening in the console.
8. Rotate the switch to lock it into place. Make sure the locking tab clicks into position.
9. Transfer the wires one by one from the old switch to the new switch and match the wire connections.
10. Place the console back into its original position and secure it with the Torx 20 screws you removed earlier.
11. Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
12. Run a test cycle to make sure the new rotary switch is working correctly.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the rotate-to-start switch on your electric GE dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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