GE · Dryer Critical
L2 — Power supply / 240V issue (L2 missing or swapped with neutral)
The dryer is not seeing proper 240V split-phase power. Typically one of the two hot legs (L2) is missing, or L2 and Neutral are reversed at the outlet/cord. The dryer will tumble but won't heat — or won't start at all.
- Keep using it?
- No — service first
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Verified against
- texastempmasters.com ↗
How to fix it
- STOP using the dryer until power is verified — bad neutral can cause shock or fire.
- Unplug the dryer.
- Reset the dryer breaker fully OFF, then ON.
- Verify outlet with a multimeter: 240V between the two hots, 120V from each hot to neutral, 120V each hot to ground.
- If voltages are wrong, have a licensed electrician correct the outlet wiring or breaker.
- If outlet is good, inspect the dryer cord at the terminal block for loose or burnt connections and reterminate.
- Plug back in and test.
Why it happens
Typical signs: L2 code displayed · Dryer tumbles but no heat · Recently moved or new install · Just had electrical work done
- Tripped or weak breaker leg Dryer breaker is a 2-pole; one half tripped or failed internally leaves only 120V.
- Miswired outlet or cord L2 and Neutral landed on the wrong terminals during install.
- Loose neutral or hot at outlet Backed-out screw causes intermittent power.
- Broken wire in cord Strain-relief damage at the cord-to-terminal-block entry.
Parts you may need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
More GE dryer codes
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: texastempmasters.com.