How to test the temperature switch on a GE dryer that doesn’t heat

Struggling with a GE electric dryer that just won’t heat up? The culprit might be the temperature selector switch, and there’s an easy way to find out if this is the source of the problem. Check out our exclusive how-to video below to learn the simple steps to test and possibly repair your dryer on your own—saving you time and money!

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If your GE electric dryer isn’t heating, the problem may be with the temperature selector switch. This part is responsible for controlling the heat settings of the dryer. 

Before you call for a repair technician, you can quickly test the part yourself to determine if it’s the source of the issue. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to troubleshoot the problem and get your appliance back up and running.

Watch here: How To Test A GE Dryer Temperature Selector WE4M407

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

What does the part do?

The temperature selector switch in a GE electric dryer is responsible for controlling the heat settings of the appliance. Its main functions include:

• The switch allows the user to choose between high, medium, or low heat. This allows the dryer to be adjusted for different types of fabrics and drying needs.
• The switch communicates with the dryer’s control board to turn the heating element on and off as needed to maintain the selected temperature. This helps ensure the dryer operates at the desired heat level.

Tools and materials

• Multimeter
• Torx 20 driver

The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

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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.

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Testing steps

1. Unplug the power cord to the dryer.
2. Remove the back console panel.
3. Use a Torx 20 driver to remove the mounting screws along the top of the console.
4. Rotate the console forward.
5. Set the temperature selector to the cotton or high heat setting.
6. Locate the orange wire at terminal 16 and the blue wire at terminal 8. Remove these wires.
7. Use your multimeter probes to test for continuity from the orange wire at terminal 15 to the empty terminal 16. You should have continuity and hear your meter beep.
8. You should not have continuity at any other terminals at this point.
9. If you have continuity from terminal 15 to 16, set the temperature selector to the delicates or low heat setting.
10. Now test for continuity from terminal 6 to the yellow wire at terminal 7.
11. If there is continuity here, the temperature selector switch is good and the issue is likely something else preventing the dryer from heating.
12. If there is no continuity, you will need to replace the temperature selector switch.

To reassemble the dryer:

1. Line up the bottom legs of the console with the top panel.
2. Rotate the console back to the back panel.
3. Secure the console with the Torx 20 screws.

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Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your GE electric dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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