mypros+
Error code reference

GE Washer Dryer Error Code 22

Out of balance (OOB) during dry load sense

GE codesGE washer dryer codes

Out of balance (OOB) during dry load sense - OOB condition detected during dry load sense algorithm; dry load sense will be abandoned and wet load sense will be started.

First step from the service manual

Check the output voltage from the pressure sensor to ensure it matches the water level in the basket according to the pressure sensor chart.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for 22.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What 22 means on a GE washer dryer

Error code 22 on a GE combination washer/dryer unit indicates an out-of-balance (OOB) condition detected during the dry load sense algorithm. The dry load sense phase is an early-cycle routine the machine uses to assess the load before introducing water. When the control detects that the load is unevenly distributed during this phase, it cannot reliably complete the dry sensing process. Rather than halt the cycle entirely, the machine responds by abandoning dry load sense and defaulting to the wet load sense algorithm, which operates with water introduced into the drum.

The pressure sensor plays a central role in diagnosing this code. The first diagnostic step is to check the output voltage from the pressure sensor and compare it against the pressure sensor chart to confirm the reading corresponds accurately to the actual water level in the basket. A faulty or drifting pressure sensor can cause the control board to misinterpret basket conditions, triggering a false OOB detection even when the physical load is properly balanced. Wiring issues between the pressure sensor and the control board can also produce erratic voltage signals.

Physical load imbalance is the most straightforward cause. Items such as heavy garments, single large items, or tangled laundry can shift to one side of the drum during the initial spin or tumble phase. Mechanical issues including worn drum bearings, a damaged spider arm, or suspension problems can also cause abnormal drum movement that the control interprets as an OOB event. Technicians should inspect both the load conditions and the mechanical components of the drum assembly when this code appears.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 22

  1. 01

    Uneven or unbalanced load

    Wiring / connection

    A single heavy item or tangled garments can bunch to one side of the drum during the initial dry sense phase, triggering the OOB condition. Redistribute the laundry evenly and restart the cycle to see if the error recurs.

  2. 02

    Faulty or drifting pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    If the pressure sensor output voltage does not match the expected water level per the pressure sensor chart, the sensor may be sending inaccurate readings to the control board, causing false OOB detection. Measure the sensor output voltage and compare it to the chart to confirm whether the sensor is out of specification.

  3. 03

    Pressure sensor wiring or connection issue

    Wiring / connection

    Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring between the pressure sensor and the control board can produce erratic voltage signals that mimic an OOB condition. Inspect the harness and connectors for continuity, corrosion, or poor seating.

  4. 04

    Worn drum bearings or suspension components

    Part replacement

    Degraded drum bearings or worn suspension parts can cause the drum to wobble or move abnormally during the sense phase, which the control registers as an out-of-balance event. Listen for grinding or rumbling noises and check for excessive drum play.

  5. 05

    Damaged drum spider arm

    Part replacement

    A cracked or broken spider arm allows the drum to sit unevenly, producing physical imbalance that triggers the OOB detection algorithm during dry load sense. Inspect the rear of the drum for structural damage to the spider assembly.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 22

What does 22 mean on a GE washer, dryer?
Error code 22 means the machine detected an out-of-balance condition during its dry load sense routine, the phase where it evaluates the laundry load before adding water. When this happens, the control abandons the dry load sense process and switches to a wet load sense algorithm instead. The cycle may proceed, but the root cause should be diagnosed to prevent repeated occurrences.
Can I fix error code 22 on my GE washer/dryer myself?
In many cases, yes. Start by opening the drum and redistributing the laundry so weight is spread evenly, then restart the cycle. If the code returns with a balanced load, the next step is checking the pressure sensor output voltage against the pressure sensor chart, which a knowledgeable DIYer with a multimeter can do. Mechanical issues like worn bearings or a damaged spider arm typically require more advanced disassembly and may be better handled by a technician.
Will resetting the machine clear error code 22?
A reset may clear the code temporarily and allow the cycle to restart, but it will not fix the underlying cause. If the load is unbalanced or a component like the pressure sensor is faulty, the code is likely to return during the next cycle. Always address the root cause rather than relying on resets.
Is it safe to keep using my GE washer/dryer when error code 22 appears?
The machine is designed to fall back to wet load sense when this code appears, so the cycle can often continue without immediate damage. However, if the code is caused by a mechanical problem such as worn bearings or a broken spider arm, continued use can worsen the damage and lead to more costly repairs. It is best to diagnose the cause promptly.
How much does it cost to repair error code 22 on a GE washer/dryer?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Redistributing a load costs nothing. Replacing a pressure sensor typically falls in the range of $30 to $80 for the part, plus labor if a technician is involved. Drum bearing or spider arm replacement is more labor-intensive, and total repair costs for those components can range from $150 to $400 or more depending on parts and local labor rates.

Related GE washer dryer codes

All GE washer dryer codes
View all 25 GE washer dryer codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass