How to replace the door switch on an electric GE dryer

Is your GE dryer refusing to start or mysteriously running with the door open? The culprit might be a faulty door switch, but don’t worry—fixing it is easier than you think. With just a few simple tools and our step-by-step guide, complete with an instructional video, you can tackle this common issue and get your dryer back in action.

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

The door switch on an electric GE dryer detects when the door is open or closed. This is a safety feature that prevents the unit from running when the door is open.

Over time, regular use and wear can cause the door switch to become damaged. When this happens, the dryer may not start even when the door is closed or the dryer may run while the door is open. Fortunately, you only need a few basic tools and some patience to get your GE dryer back in working order.

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 GE 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 Door Switch WE4M415

What you need

• Replacement door switch (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model before installing)
• Phillips screwdriver

Read more:  How To Disassemble A Dryer

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 Replace A Dryer Door Switch

How to replace the door switch

Follow these steps to change out a faulty door switch in your GE dryer.

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws at the top of the front panel, just behind the door.
3. Lift the top panel up slightly to clear the console legs, then pull the panel forward.
4. Remove the Phillips screws found at each back corner of the front panel.
5. Lift the front panel up, rotate it to the side, and lean it against the frame.
6. Rotate the plastic cover out of the way.
7. Take a photo of how the wires are connected to the door switch so you have a reference when you reinstall them later.
8. Disconnect the wires from the door switch.
9. Pinch the two tabs on the switch into the door switch body, then push the switch out of the front panel.
10. Insert the new door switch into the front panel until it locks into place.
11. Reconnect the door switch wires by referring to the photo you took earlier.
12. Set the front panel back onto the dryer and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
13. Slide the top panel back onto the console legs, rotate it down, and secure it with the Phillips screws.
14. Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
15. Run a test cycle to make sure the new door switch is working correctly.

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

More for you

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the door switch on your electric GE dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts 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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