Affected model seriesGTW top-load washer service family
Quick answer
Out-of-balance condition in final spin.
Model compatibility: GE reuses codes across series and model years, so 31 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
Out-of-balance condition in final spin.
Signs
Symptoms you may notice
Spin speed may be reduced or canceled.
The cycle may take longer than expected.
The fault can return with certain load sizes or heavy absorbent items.
The washer may repeatedly redistribute the load.
Why it happens
Possible causes
Excess detergent/oversudsing that interferes with spin behavior.
A sensing/control issue that prevents the washer from confirming balance.
An out-of-level installation or unstable floor.
An uneven, tangled, very small, or unusually heavy load.
A suspension/drive condition that makes repeated imbalance more likely.
Before you call
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
Redistribute the load and remove a single heavy item if it is causing repeated imbalance.
Check that the appliance is stable and not rocking on the floor.
Use the recommended detergent amount to avoid oversudsing where suds are part of the fault.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your GE appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
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Replacement parts are selected for the exact model and confirmed with you before ordering or installation.
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