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HomeRepair HelpGE Dryer RepairGE Dryer won't stop Repair

GE Dryer won't stop

If your GE dryer won't stop or keeps running after the cycle, the most common cause is restricted airflow from a clogged vent or lint build up, which raises cabinet temperature, stretches drying time and can even cause a burning smell, so start by checking and cleaning the venting system. Next, make sure the anti-wrinkle or tumble option is not selected, since that setting will periodically tumble clothes after the cycle finishes and make it look like the dryer won't stop spinning. If airflow is fine but the dryer still runs too long, inspect the blower wheel for lint clogs or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble on the motor shaft; weak exhaust flow or a wobbling blower often causes extended runs. Confirm incoming power and the circuit breaker and a tight plug, because intermittent power can make the dryer start then stop. Finally, if the venting is clear and the dryer is heating correctly, a faulty control board can allow the machine to keep running; you can test voltage to the drive motor with a multimeter. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer.

01 - Air Flow Problem

If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.
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02 - Anti-wrinkle cycle option selected

Most dryer models have an anti-wrinkle cycle option that can be selected to reduce wrinkles. When selected the dryer drum will tumble the clothes every few minutes after the cycle is completed to help keep wrinkles from occurring. If this option was inadvertently selected the dryer will intermittently run until the clothes are removed.
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03 - GE Dryer Blower Wheel

The blower wheel draws air through the dryer and pushes the air out the vent. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower whee...l by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.
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04 - Incoming Power Problem

Confirm a circuit breaker has not tripped and the power cord is plugged tightly into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can provide intermittent power to the dryer and cause it to spinning stop during the cycle.
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05 - GE Dryer Control Board

A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
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Common

06 - GE Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component.
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Common

07 - Dirty Moisture Sensor Bars

The control board uses the moisture sensor bars to sense the dampness of the clothes. Over time the sensor bars can become coated, expecially from dryer sheet residue. Try cleaning off the bars with warm soap and water. If the sensor bars are damaged they will need to be replaced.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

My dryer won't stop running — what should I check first?
Why is my dryer running but taking too long to dry?
Can a bad control board cause my dryer to keep running?
My dryer starts then stops after a few seconds. Could this be a power issue?
How do I enter my model number to find the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com?