How to test the timer on a GE electric dryer that won’t start

Struggling with a GE electric dryer that just won’t start? The culprit could be a faulty timer, but no need to call in the pros just yet! Our step-by-step guide, complete with an easy-to-follow how-to video below, will empower you to test and troubleshoot the problem in no time.

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If your GE electric dryer isn’t starting, the problem may be with the timer. 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.

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.

Watch here: How To Test A GE Electric Dryer Timer WE4M271

What the timer does

The timer controls the various stages of the drying cycle including regulating the operation of the dryer motor, heating element, and other functions so that clothes are dried properly. As the timer advances through the cycle, it triggers the dryer to transition between tumbling, heating, cooling, and shutting off at the end of the cycle. The timer allows the user to select the appropriate drying time and settings for each load.

Symptoms of a bad timer

If the timer is failing, you may notice any of several symptoms:

• The dryer does not advance through the full cycle as expected, stopping prematurely or running continuously without stopping.
• The drum fails to tumble, even when the dryer is powered on.
• The heating element does not turn on, leaving the clothes wet at the end of the cycle.
• The dryer shuts off unexpectedly during the cycle.
• The timer knob is difficult to turn or does not move smoothly.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms with your GE electric dryer, it is likely time to replace the faulty timer to restore proper operation. 

Tools and materials

• Torx 20 driver
• Multimeter

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.

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.

Testing steps

1. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet or turn off the circuit breaker powering the dryer.
2. Using the Torx 20 screwdriver, remove the mounting screws along the top of the console panel.
3. Carefully rotate the console panel forward to access the internal components.
4. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting.
5. Disconnect the black wire from Terminal C on the timer.
6. Use the multimeter to test for continuity between Terminal B and C.
7. If there is no continuity, the timer has failed and needs to be replaced.
8. Rotate the console panel back into its original position.
9. Reinstall the Torx 20 screws to secure the console panel.
10. Plug the dryer back into the electrical outlet or turn the circuit breaker back on.

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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