E8
GE Dry-Fire Protection / No Water in Tank

GE electric water heater displays E8 and heating is disabled.

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Possible Causes

Tank not filled before powering, air trapped in tank, failed water level or dry-fire sensor, control mis-detecting fill status

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn OFF power at the breaker immediately if the tank may be empty.

Steps to address E8:

  • Verify water supply: Ensure the cold water shutoff valve to the heater is fully open.
  • Check for flow: Open a hot water faucet in the house. A strong, steady stream indicates the tank is full; sputtering or no flow suggests air or low water.
  • Bleed air: Leave hot faucets open until all air is purged and water flows smoothly.
  • Inspect dry-fire sensor: Some GE models use a sensor near the element. Check its wiring and connection to the control board.
  • Reset and test: After confirming the tank is full, restore power and see if E8 clears. If it persists, the sensor or control board may be faulty.

Warning: Never energize elements in an empty or partially filled tank; this will destroy the elements.

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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Dry-Fire / Water Level Sensor
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