GE - Washing Machine - E1

GE Washer Error Code E1 - What It Means & What to Do

Seeing E1 on a GE washer can be stressful, especially if the tub is still full of water. This code often appears during the drain phase and is a common alert, not a sign of immediate danger.

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What the Error Code Means

Error code E1 generally means the washer detected a draining issue and stopped.

It points to a drain condition rather than a confirmed single failure.

Common Symptoms You May Notice

  • Water remains in the tub after the cycle ends.
  • The washer stops early and shows E1.
  • The drain pump runs longer than usual.

Most Common Causes (From Least to Most Serious)

  1. Drain hose is restricted: A visible kink or pinch in the hose can slow water flow out of the washer.
  2. Drain path is blocked: Lint or small items can interfere with normal draining.
  3. Washer is not sensing normal drain: In some cases the washer pauses when it cannot confirm normal draining.

Safe Things You Can Check Yourself

  • Look for visible kinks in the drain hose and straighten them if safe to do so.
  • Ensure the drain hose is not pushed too far into the standpipe.
  • Power cycle the washer: turn it off, wait one minute, and turn it back on.

If at any point this feels unsafe or unclear, stop and contact a professional.

When to Stop and Call for Service

  • The E1 code returns after drain hose checks.
  • Water will not drain at all or the washer stops repeatedly.
  • You notice leaks, burning smells, or repeated shutdowns.

Typical Repair Cost Range

$150-$350 is typical for professional diagnosis and repair of washer drain issues, depending on the cause and parts involved.

Costs vary by region, model, and provider. Request an estimate before approving any repair.