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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code Over Temperature

Water temperature sensed exceeds 180°F but is less than 210°F.

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Water temperature sensed exceeds 180°F but is less than 210°F.

First step from the service manual

Check overtemperature thermostat and door thermistor.

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

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What Over Temperature means on a GE dishwasher

The Over Temperature error on a GE dishwasher triggers when the control detects wash water temperature above 180°F but below 210°F. This range indicates the water is significantly hotter than the normal operating target, which typically peaks during heated wash and sanitize cycles well below the 180°F threshold. The control monitors temperature continuously through the door thermistor, and when readings exceed this upper limit, the error is logged to protect internal components, hoses, and the wash system from heat damage.

Two primary components govern this diagnostic: the overtemperature thermostat and the door thermistor. The overtemperature thermostat is a safety device designed to cut the heating circuit if temperatures become dangerously high. The door thermistor is a resistance-based sensor that feeds real-time temperature data to the control board. If the thermistor drifts out of calibration or develops a fault that causes it to report artificially high readings, the control will respond as though the water is overheating even when it is not.

The most common hardware causes include a failed thermistor sending incorrect resistance values, a defective heating element that does not shut off at the proper temperature, or a malfunctioning overtemperature thermostat that fails to interrupt the heating circuit. A faulty control board that misreads sensor input is also possible but less common. Proper diagnosis requires measuring thermistor resistance against the expected value at a known water temperature and checking whether the thermostat opens at its rated cutoff point.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Over Temperature

  1. 01

    Faulty door thermistor

    Part replacement

    The door thermistor measures water temperature and reports it to the control board. If its resistance values have drifted or it has failed, it can report falsely elevated temperatures even when the water is at a normal level.

  2. 02

    Defective heating element

    Part replacement

    A heating element that does not cycle off correctly can drive water temperature above the 180°F threshold. Check whether the element is drawing power continuously when it should be off.

  3. 03

    Failed overtemperature thermostat

    Part replacement

    The overtemperature thermostat is a safety cutoff designed to interrupt heating when temperatures become excessive. If it has failed in a closed position, it will not stop the heating element from overheating the water.

  4. 04

    Control board misreading sensor input

    Part replacement

    In some cases the main control board may incorrectly interpret signals from the thermistor circuit, triggering the error without an actual thermal event. This is typically diagnosed only after ruling out the thermistor and thermostat.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Over Temperature

What does Over Temperature mean on a GE dishwasher?
The Over Temperature error means the dishwasher's control detected water temperature above 180°F but below 210°F during a cycle. This falls outside the safe operating range and causes the machine to stop. The most likely culprits are the door thermistor and the overtemperature thermostat, which are the first components to inspect.
Can I fix the Over Temperature error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can check the door thermistor and overtemperature thermostat with a multimeter to determine whether either component has failed. Replacing a thermistor or thermostat is a moderately straightforward repair if you are comfortable working with appliance wiring. However, if the heating element or control board is involved, professional diagnosis may be the safer route.
Is it safe to use my GE dishwasher when this error appears?
You should not continue running the dishwasher until the cause is identified. Water heated above 180°F can damage internal components including hoses, seals, and plastic parts. If the heating element is running unchecked, continuing to operate the machine could worsen the damage or create a safety hazard.
How much does it cost to repair an Over Temperature error on a GE dishwasher?
Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement door thermistor or overtemperature thermostat typically costs between $15 and $60 for the part alone. If a technician performs the diagnosis and repair, total costs including labor generally range from $100 to $250. A failed control board represents the most expensive scenario, with parts and labor potentially reaching $200 to $400.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the Over Temperature error?
Resetting the dishwasher may clear the error code temporarily, but if the underlying component fault remains, the error will return once the machine runs a heated cycle again. A reset is useful for confirming whether the issue is persistent, but it is not a fix. Proper diagnosis of the thermistor and thermostat is needed to resolve the error permanently.

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