E4
GE Dryer
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
E4 on a GE dryer means the moisture sensor is giving bad readings. The dryer uses this sensor to know when your clothes are dry. A dirty sensor is the most common cause — and the easiest fix.
Affected Models
- GE Electric Dryer
- GE Gas Dryer
- GE Profile Dryer
- GE Sensor Dry Dryer
Common Causes
- The moisture sensor bars are coated with dryer sheet residue, blocking contact
- The sensor bars are corroded or damaged
- A wiring connection to the sensor has come loose
- The control board is not receiving the sensor signal correctly
How to Fix It
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Open the dryer door and look inside the drum. Find the two metal sensor bars — they are usually located on the front wall of the drum, below the door opening.
The bars are flat, shiny metal strips about 2–3 inches long.
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Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently scrub both sensor bars. Dryer sheet residue builds up over time and blocks the electrical contact.
Do not use abrasive pads — just a soft cloth with isopropyl alcohol. Wipe until the bars look clean and shiny.
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Let the bars dry completely, then run a test load. Use items that are damp — not bone dry — so the sensor has something to detect.
If E4 is gone, residue buildup was the cause. Clean the bars every few months to prevent recurrence.
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If E4 returns after cleaning, unplug the dryer and check the wiring harness leading to the sensor bars. Reconnect any loose connectors.
The wires are accessible by removing the front panel of the dryer.
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If E4 still persists, the sensor bars need to be replaced. Order the part for your specific GE model.
Sensor bar assemblies are usually $15 to $35 and can be swapped out with a screwdriver.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the sensor bars does not fix E4, the sensor itself may have failed. A technician can test it with a multimeter and replace it if needed. Expect $80 to $150 for the repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dryer sheets cause problems with the moisture sensor?
Dryer sheets leave a waxy film on everything inside the drum — including the sensor bars. Over time this film insulates the bars and prevents them from detecting moisture in the clothes. Switching to dryer balls instead of sheets can prevent this buildup.
My dryer keeps running even after clothes are dry. Is that E4?
It can be — a coated sensor that reads 'wet' even when clothes are dry will keep the cycle running. Cleaning the sensor bars often fixes both E4 errors and over-drying issues.
How often should I clean the moisture sensor?
Every 1 to 3 months if you use dryer sheets regularly. A quick wipe with rubbing alcohol takes less than a minute and keeps the sensor accurate.