tE3 Moderate Moderate DIY

GE Dryer tE3 — Drum/cabinet thermistor over-temperature

GE Dryer · Error code tE3

What tE3 Means

On some GE front-load and stacked dryers, tE3 indicates the drum or cabinet thermistor is reading an over-temperature condition. The control kills heat to protect the appliance.

Symptoms

  • tE3 on display
  • Heat cuts out mid-cycle
  • Dryer feels very hot
  • Clothes hot but damp

Common Causes

1
Blocked vent causing real over-temp

Clogged duct traps heat; thermistor reading is correct — fix the vent.

2
Failed thermistor

Sensor drifted high or shorted.

3
Stuck heater relay on control board

Heater stays energized regardless of thermistor input.

4
Failed high-limit thermostat

Hi-limit not opening to back up the thermistor.

How to Fix It

  1. Unplug the dryer and let it cool for an hour.
  2. Clean the lint screen and the entire exhaust vent path.
  3. Measure the thermistor resistance — replace if out of range.
  4. Test the high-limit thermostat for continuity (cold should be closed).
  5. If thermistor and hi-limit are good and vent is clear, replace the main control board (stuck heater relay).
  6. Run a Timed Dry on Medium heat to verify.

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.

Common replacement GE dryer high-limit thermostat View on Amazon→ Common replacement Dryer vent cleaning kit View on Amazon→

More GE Dryer Codes

AF AF — Air Flow restriction E1 E1 — Inlet thermistor open circuit E1F E1F — Door lock / door switch failure E2 E2 — Inlet thermistor shorted E2F E2F — Exhaust air thermistor failure E3 E3 — Outlet (exhaust) thermistor open

All GE codes → All dryer codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: geappliances.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.