Is your GE dryer displaying error code 006? Don’t let a button problem put your laundry plans on hold. This common issue is usually caused by one stubborn button gone rogue. But tracking it down can be tricky. Follow these simple steps to safely enter diagnostic mode, isolate the faulty button, and get your dryer back in spinning action in no time.
How Dryer Control Buttons Work
The buttons on your dryer’s control panel allow you to select settings and start the drying cycle. But how do they actually work? Understanding the basics can help when troubleshooting issues.
Button Membrane Construction
The buttons on the control panel use a membrane design. This means:
- There are two thin sheets of plastic with conductive metal traces on them. The traces act like wires.
- The sheets are layered with the traces facing inward. The traces line up but have a small gap between them.
- When a button is pressed, the two sheets connect. This closes or completes the circuit.
So, in summary:
- Traces separated by gap = circuit open
- Button pressed = traces connect = circuit closed
How the Control Board Monitors Buttons
The main control board has connections that lead to each button’s traces. When a button is pressed, the board senses the closed circuit. This tells it which setting you selected.
- The board continuously monitors each button circuit
- Closed circuit = button press detected
- Open circuit = button not pressed
The control board then acts on your button press selection. Understanding this background will help when we dig into the causes of error code 006.
Let’s break things down simply:
- Buttons have traces that act like wires
- The board sees closed/open circuits to detect button presses
- Closed circuit = button pressed
- Open circuit = button not pressed
What Causes Error Code 006
Seeing an 006 error code pop up on your GE dryer’s display means there is an issue with one of the buttons on the control panel. But what could be causing the problem? Here are the main triggers to check:
Faulty Button
Over time, the membrane inside a button can wear out or develop faults. Some signs include:
- The button not responding when pressed
- Button stays stuck down
- Button behaving erratically
If a button is electrically malfunctioning, the control board will detect the improper circuits and show error 006.
Obstructed Button
An obstructed button that is physically stuck can also lead to error code 006. Some potential causes:
- The buildup of lint, dirt, grease, etc., under the button
- Dropped items like coins, paperclips, pins, and jamming mechanism
- Sticky spilled liquids trapped under the button
Anything that prevents a button from moving freely can hold the circuit closed and confuse the control board.
Main Control Board Issue
Less commonly, the main control board itself could be the culprit. If it has problems reading button states properly, error 006 may show even with normal buttons.
Safely Accessing Dryer Components
Before inspecting and testing the buttons, we need to gain safe access to the control panel and board. Safety first!
Unplug the Dryer
This seems obvious but is an important first step. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet before disassembling any parts. Verify the dryer is fully powered down.
Remove the Top and Control Panels
To access the buttons and control board, you’ll need to remove the top lid and front control panel. The steps are:
- Unscrew and remove the rear access panel
- Unscrew any screws securing the top lid
- Slide the top lid back and lift off
- Unscrew screws around the edges of the control panel
- Tilt the panel forward and disconnect any wire connectors
- Set the control panel aside
Now, you can see the button pad and access the control board.
Use Safety Gear
When working with electrical appliances, safety glasses and gloves are a must. This protects you from sharp edges or accidental shocks.
Visually Inspecting the Buttons
With the control panel safely removed, it’s time to visually inspect the buttons. Look closely for any signs of damage or contamination.
Check for Debris
Examine each buttonpad closely. Is there any lint, dirt, grease, etc., trapped near or under the buttons? Even a very small particle could obstruct button movement. Remove any debris you find with short bursts of compressed air.
Look for Sticky Residues
Inspect for any sticky residues around the buttons which could cause them to stick. Clean any sticky spots with a bit of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab. Let the area dry fully before reassembling.
Verify Membrane Integrity
Check that each button pad’s membrane is intact with no cracks, punctures, or broken traces. The conductive traces under the buttons should be straight and undamaged.
Inspect Board Connections
Examine where the ribbon cables from the button pad connect to the control board. Reseat any loose connections and check for bent or broken pins.
Isolating the Faulty Button
If visual inspection didn’t reveal the culprit, the next step is isolating which specific button is causing error 006.
Enter Diagnostics Mode
Your dryer has a special diagnostics mode that shows the status of each button in real-time. To enter it:
- Unplug, then replug in the dryer’s power cord
- Immediately hold down the “Start” and “Cancel” buttons
- Keep holding the buttons until “All” shows on the LED display
- Now, it is in diagnostics mode
Check Button Input States
With the dryer in diagnostics mode:
- The LEDs will display which buttons are being pressed in real-time
- L = Left buttons, R = Right buttons, A = All buttons
- For example, “L3” means the third button from the left is pressed
Identify the Stuck Button
While watching the LED display, press each button one by one. If a button is stuck, its number will stay lit continuously.
This process of elimination reveals which single button is causing code 006.
Replacing the Faulty Button
Once you’ve identified the specific button causing error 006, the repair is straightforward – replace the faulty button pad.
Order the Correct Part
You’ll need to purchase the button pad housing assembly that matches your dryer model. This part includes the plastic housing plus a membrane sheet with buttons.
- Locate your dryer’s brand, model, and serial number
- Use these to look for the part number for the button pad assembly
- Order the correct replacement part online or from an appliance parts store
Swap in the New Button Pad
Replacing the button pad involves:
- Removing the ribbon cable connector
- Unscrewing any retaining screws around the pad
- Lifting off the old button pad housing
- Placing the new button pad assembly into position
- Reconnecting the ribbon cable and replacing any screws
Refer to your owner’s manual for full instructions on removing and installing the replacement part.
Retest Operation
Once the new button pad is installed, carefully reassemble the dryer. Then plug it in and confirm the issue is fixed:
- Enter diagnostics mode and verify no buttons are stuck
- Do a test cycle to ensure normal operation
And that’s it – with a replacement button pad, error 006 should be cleared for good!
When to Replace the Control Board
Replacing a faulty button pad usually resolves error 006. But in some cases, the underlying problem may be a bad control board.
Signs of Control Board Failure
Consider replacing the control board if:
- Error 006 persists after installing a new button pad
- Multiple buttons are malfunctioning
- Buttons only work intermittently
- Burn marks or damaged components on the board
These could indicate an electrical issue with the board itself.
Ordering the Correct Part
As with the button pad, you’ll need to look up the correct control board replacement part number for your dryer model.
- Locate the brand, model, and serial number
- Reference these details to find the matching control board part number
- Purchase board from an appliance parts distributor
Installation and Testing
When swapping in a new control board:
- Carefully disconnect all wiring connectors from the old board
- Secure new board in place with mounting screws
- Reattach all wiring connectors
- Verify buttons work correctly by running a test cycle
Preventing Future Error 006 Occurrences
Fixing error 006 is important, but stopping it from happening again is ideal. Here are some tips:
Clean the Lint Filter
Lint and debris accumulation can interfere with button operation. Be diligent about cleaning the lint filter before each load.
Keep Dryer Interior Clean
Over time, dirt, grime, and lint inside the dryer can find their way onto the control panel. Occasionally wipe down the drum interior.
Use Care When Pressing Buttons
Avoid pressing buttons with dirty hands or applying too much force. Use your fingertip to gently press each button during selection.
Visually Inspect Button Pad
Make it a habit to periodically inspect the button pad, especially if error 006 has occurred before. Look for any signs of damage or sticking.
Also Read: How to Fix GE Dryer 009 Error: A Step-by-Step Guide
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide will give you a better understanding of error code 006 and how to get your dryer back up and running. Let’s recap the key points:
- Error 006 means the dryer’s control board detects an issue with a button’s circuit
- The problem is usually a faulty button, obstruction, or damaged membrane
- Gain safe access to inspect the buttons and control panel
- Visually check for debris, damage, or sticky residue
- Use diagnostics mode to isolate the problem button
- Replace a damaged button pad or control board as needed
- Prevent future 006 errors through cleanliness and gentle operation
The good news is that error 006 is often an easy DIY fix. Just locate and replace the malfunctioning button pad. With some basic tools and safety precautions, you can have your dryer working again in no time.