The outlet control thermistor in your GE dryer regulates air temperature during a cycle. Over time, it can malfunction, leading to inaccurate temperature readings and extended drying times. Replacing this part is straightforward and can be completed in less than an hour. Follow these steps to restore your dryer’s performance.
Understanding the Role of the Outlet Control Thermistor
The outlet control thermistor monitors the temperature of the air as it leaves the dryer drum. This part is critical for maintaining safe and effective drying conditions. A malfunctioning thermistor can cause issues such as overheating, underheating, or prolonged drying times. Replacing this component is key to restoring normal dryer operation and preventing further wear on your appliance.
Symptoms of a Faulty Thermistor
If you’re unsure whether the thermistor is the source of your dryer’s issues, watch for these common signs of failure:
- Inconsistent Drying: Clothes may still feel damp after the cycle is complete.
- Extended Drying Times: The dryer takes much longer than usual to dry a load.
- Error Codes: Modern dryers may display error messages related to temperature control.
- Overheating or Burning Smells: A malfunctioning thermistor may cause the dryer to overheat, creating a potential safety hazard.
Diagnosing the issue properly will help you confirm that replacing the thermistor is the correct solution.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Phillips screwdriver
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Flathead screwdriver
- New outlet control thermistor (compatible with your dryer model)
Verify Part Compatibility
Before starting, confirm that the replacement thermistor matches your dryer model. To do this, locate the appliance’s model number, which can usually be found:
- Inside the dryer door or on the door frame
- On the back panel, near the top or bottom
- On the side of the dryer cabinet
- On the control panel or console
Write down the model number or take a photo for reference. Use this information to purchase the correct OEM part.
Prioritize Safety
Safety is essential when performing any appliance repair. Follow these precautions to work securely:
- Power Off: Unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker to avoid electric shock.
- Cool Down: Allow the appliance to cool completely before starting, especially if it was recently used.
- Gas Supply: For gas dryers, shut off the gas supply to prevent leaks.
- Workspace Preparation: Work in a clean, well-lit area. Remove any obstacles, and keep children and pets away.
- Protective Gear: Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and debris.
- Wiring Notes: Take photos or notes of any wiring connections before disconnecting them to simplify reassembly.
Also Read: How to Fix the 00d Error on Your GE Dryer: A DIY Guide
How to Replace the Outlet Control Thermistor in a GE Dryer
Unplug and Access Panels
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Open the dryer door and use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the top. Close the door.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the back access panel.
- Lift the panel off, and if necessary, use a flathead screwdriver to detach the ground wire. Set the panel aside.
Remove the Control Panel
- Take a photo of the control board wiring for reference.
- Disconnect all wires from the control board by pressing the locking tabs. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the Ethernet plug.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the control panel.
- Pull the panel back to release the tabs, then lift it off and set it aside.
Remove Side Covers and Top
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the side covers. Lift and pull them out, then unclip the wires and feed them through the sides of the dryer.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the single screw on each side securing the top to the cabinet.
- Lift the top slightly to clear the tabs, push it back, and lift it off. Set it aside.
Remove the Front Panel
- Disconnect the light wiring harness by pressing the locking tab.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the front panel.
- Lower the front panel slightly to access the wiring harnesses.
- Disconnect the connectors for the door switch and moisture sensors.
- Lift the front panel off and set it aside.
Remove the Old Thermistor
- Remove the belt from the idler and motor pulleys.
- Lift the drum out through the cabinet cutouts and set it aside.
- Locate the outlet control thermistor on the back of the blower housing.
- Detach the wires from the thermistor using a flathead screwdriver.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the thermistor.
- Pull the old thermistor off the housing.
Install the New Thermistor
- Secure the new thermistor in place with screws using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
- Connect the wires to the thermistor, attaching the bare metal wire to the lower terminal and the insulated wire to the upper terminal.
Reassemble the Dryer
- Reinsert the drum into the dryer by guiding it through the cutouts. Place the shaft into the back receptor.
- Place the belt in the rear groove with the grooves facing inward.
- Reattach the belt by pulling the idler pulley down and hooking the belt over the motor and idler pulleys.
- Reinstall the front panel by aligning it with the mounting tabs and reconnecting the door switch and moisture sensor wiring harnesses.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to secure the front panel with screws.
- Reattach the top by sliding its lip under the front panel, aligning the tabs, and sliding it forward. Pull out any wires that may be pinched.
- Reinstall the screws securing the top to the cabinet.
- Reattach the control panel by aligning its tabs with the cabinet slots and snapping it into place. Secure it with screws.
- Reconnect the wires to the control board and reinsert the Ethernet plug, referencing the photo taken earlier.
- Reinsert the ground wire, reattach the back access panel, and secure it with screws.
- Reinstall the top screws inside the dryer door using a Phillips screwdriver.
Final Step
- Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
- Run a cycle to check the dryer’s operation.
Also Read: How to replace a GE dryer’s rotary switch like a pro
Who knew a tiny thermistor could cause so much trouble? Replacing this small yet essential component can extend a dryer’s life and save you the hassle of damp laundry or skyrocketing energy bills.
Now that you’ve tackled this repair, you can confidently take on other appliance fixes with the same methodical approach. Your dryer’s back to working as it should, and you’ve got one less household headache to deal with.