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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code E6

Water temperature in the dishwasher did not reach the proper wash temperature, usually caused by lack of hot…

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Water temperature in the dishwasher did not reach the proper wash temperature, usually caused by lack of hot water from household water heater.

First step from the service manual

Avoid showers or laundry prior to running dishwasher; adjust household water heater thermostat to 120°F minimum; use DELAY START feature.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E6 means on a GE dishwasher

The E6 error code on a GE dishwasher indicates that the water temperature inside the tub did not reach the required threshold during the wash cycle. The dishwasher monitors incoming water temperature and expects a minimum level of heat to properly activate detergent and sanitize dishes. When the control detects that this temperature has not been achieved within a set time window, it triggers the E6 fault and may halt or flag the cycle.

The most common root cause is not a failed dishwasher component but rather insufficient hot water supply from the household water heater. If the water heater thermostat is set below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, or if hot water has been depleted by prior use such as showers, laundry, or other appliances, the water entering the dishwasher will simply be too cool to meet the cycle requirements. The E6 code is essentially the dishwasher reporting that it received inadequate incoming water temperature rather than signaling an internal component failure.

Diagnosing this code starts with evaluating household hot water conditions before assuming any part has failed. Running the kitchen hot water tap until it flows hot before starting the dishwasher is a reliable test. Adjusting the water heater thermostat to a minimum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit and scheduling dishwasher cycles outside of peak hot water usage times, or using the DELAY START feature to allow the water heater to recover, will resolve this error in most cases without any parts replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E6

  1. 01

    Water heater thermostat set too low

    Wiring / connection

    If the household water heater is set below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, the water entering the dishwasher will not be hot enough to satisfy the cycle requirements. Check the water heater thermostat setting and raise it to at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. 02

    Hot water depleted by prior household use

    Wiring / connection

    Running the dishwasher shortly after showers, laundry, or other high hot water demand activities can result in lukewarm water reaching the appliance. Allow the water heater adequate recovery time before starting a cycle.

  3. 03

    Cold water in supply lines at cycle start

    Wiring / connection

    If the dishwasher has not been run recently, the hot water sitting in the supply lines may have cooled. Running the kitchen faucet on hot until warm water flows before starting the dishwasher clears this cold water from the line.

  4. 04

    Faulty or failing heating element

    Part replacement

    If household hot water supply is confirmed adequate but the E6 code persists, the dishwasher's internal heating element may not be functioning correctly and is failing to supplement or maintain water temperature during the cycle.

  5. 05

    Defective water temperature sensor or thermistor

    Part replacement

    A temperature sensor that is reading incorrectly can cause the control board to log an E6 error even when water temperature is actually sufficient. If other causes have been ruled out, the sensor may need to be tested or replaced.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E6

What does E6 mean on a GE dishwasher?
The E6 code on a GE dishwasher means the water inside the tub did not reach the required wash temperature during the cycle. This is most often caused by insufficient hot water from the household water heater rather than a failed dishwasher component. Setting the water heater to at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit and avoiding heavy hot water use before running the dishwasher resolves this in most cases.
How do I fix the E6 error on my GE dishwasher?
Start by checking your water heater thermostat and raising it to a minimum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit if it is set lower. Before starting a cycle, run the kitchen hot water tap until the water feels hot to clear cold water from the supply line. Avoid running showers or laundry immediately before the dishwasher, or use the DELAY START feature to schedule the cycle when hot water demand is low. If the error continues after confirming good hot water supply, the heating element or temperature sensor may need inspection.
Is the E6 error on a GE dishwasher a safety concern?
The E6 code is not a safety hazard in the sense of an electrical or water leak risk. However, washing dishes in water that is too cool can reduce cleaning effectiveness and may not properly sanitize dishes. Addressing the root cause, typically the hot water supply, ensures dishes are cleaned and sanitized correctly.
How much does it cost to repair an E6 error on a GE dishwasher?
If the issue is simply a low water heater thermostat setting or hot water depletion, the fix costs nothing. If the heating element has failed, replacement parts typically range from $30 to $80 depending on the model, with professional labor adding $100 to $200. A faulty temperature sensor is generally a lower-cost part, often in the $15 to $50 range, though labor costs apply if a technician is needed.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the E6 error code?
Resetting the dishwasher may clear the E6 code temporarily, but the error will return if the underlying cause has not been addressed. If the water entering the dishwasher is still not hot enough, the control will detect the same temperature shortfall and display E6 again. Correct the hot water supply issue first, then run a new cycle to confirm the error does not reappear.

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