GE Appliances Washer Owner's Manual & Installation Instructions
Models: GTW680, GTW685, GTW690
Languages: English, Français, Español
Safety Instructions
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
The safety alert symbol ⚠️ alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. Safety messages follow the symbol and the words "DANGER", "WARNING", or "CAUTION".
- DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
- WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- ⚠️ WARNING: To reduce the risk of death, fire, explosion, electric shock, or injury, follow basic precautions.
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- DO NOT wash or dry articles cleaned with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable/explosive substances.
- DO NOT add these substances to the wash water.
- If the hot water system has not been used for 2 weeks or more, turn on hot water faucets for several minutes to release accumulated hydrogen gas (which is explosive). DO NOT smoke or use open flame during this time.
- DO NOT allow children to play on or in the appliance. Close supervision is necessary. Remove the door or lid before discarding the washer.
- DO NOT reach into the appliance if the tub or agitator is moving to prevent entanglement.
- DO NOT install or store the appliance where it will be exposed to the weather.
- DO NOT tamper with controls, repair, or replace parts unless specifically recommended in the manual.
- DO NOT operate if damaged, malfunctioning, or missing parts.
- Unplug the appliance or turn off the circuit breaker before servicing. Pressing the Power button does NOT disconnect power.
- See "Electrical Requirements" for grounding instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Installation Instructions
This washer must be properly installed and located according to the Installation Instructions.
- Connect hot water hose to "H" valve, cold water hose to "C" valve.
- Install or store away from freezing temperatures or weather.
- Properly ground the washer according to codes and ordinances.
- ⚠️ WARNING - Electrical Shock Hazard: Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. DO NOT remove ground prong. DO NOT use an adapter or extension cord.
- Ensure the washer is properly leveled and stable.
- Optional drain hose extension may be needed for heights from 60" - 96".
- This washer does not include water supply hoses. GE recommends factory-specified parts and replacing hoses every 5 years.
Parts and Accessories: Order online at www.geappliances.ca or by phone at 1.800.661.1616.
START-UP SEQUENCE: The washer will turn on cold water valves briefly when starting or restarting.
WHEN NOT IN USE: Turn off water faucets to minimize leakage. Check fill hoses; replace every 5 years.
LOCATION OF YOUR WASHER:
- DO NOT install in areas exposed to dripping water, outside weather, or temperatures below 60°F (15.6°C).
- DO NOT install near curtains or drapes.
- Floor must be hard surface with max slope of 1/2" per foot (1.27 cm per 30 cm). Reinforce floor if necessary. Use 3/4" impregnated plywood if floor is in poor condition.
- IMPORTANT: Minimum Installation Clearances for alcoves/closets are specified (0" sides, 2" front, 3" rear, 60" vertical). Louvered or ventilated closet doors are required.
WATER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS:
- Pressure: 20-120 psi minimum.
- Temperature: Hot water heater set to 120°-150°F (50°-66°C) for hot wash.
- Shutoff valves (hot and cold) should be supplied.
- DRAIN: Standpipe discharge height MUST be 30" minimum to 96" maximum. Standpipe diameter: 1-1/2" minimum. Maintain an air gap around the drain hose.
UNPACKING THE WASHER: Remove packing material, cable tie bag, and Owner's Reference Guide. Leave foam shipping material inside tub opening to hold tub in place.
REMOVE THE BASE: Tip unit back and remove base.
CONNECT WATER HOSES TO WASHER: Disconnect electrical cord. Install rubber washers. Connect hot water hose to "H" and cold water hose to "C". Hand tighten, then tighten 1/8 to 1/4 turn beyond hand-tight. Move washer close to final location.
CONNECT WATER HOSES TO OUTLET VALVES: Determine hot water faucet (traditionally left). Install strainer screen/rubber washer. Connect hot water hose to hot valve, cold to cold. Hand tighten, then tighten 1/4 to 1/2 turn beyond hand-tight. Open faucets. Check for leaks.
CONNECT TO DRAIN: Ensure standpipe/drain is capable of 16 gal/min discharge. Maintain 30"-96" height. Ensure 1-1/2" minimum diameter and air gap. If drain is less than 33" high, use siphon break kit. Fasten drain hose to standpipe with cable tie. Do not insert hose more than 5" into drain pipe.
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Plug into grounded 3-prong outlet.
- DO NOT remove ground prong, use adapter, or extension cord.
- CIRCUIT: 15 or 20 amp breaker/fuse.
- POWER SUPPLY: 120 Volt, single phase, 60 Hz.
- Outlet Receptacle: Properly grounded 3-prong.
- Washer must be electrically grounded per local codes or NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE.
CONNECT POWER AND INSTALL: Do not shim leveling legs. Ensure large dial control is in OFF position. Insert plug into 115V, 15- or 20-amp receptacle. Place level on flat top. Adjust leveling legs until washer is level. Remove tub shipping material and control panel protector.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS: Appliance must be grounded to reduce risk of electric shock. Use a cord with grounding conductor and plug. Plug into appropriate, properly installed and grounded outlet. If unsure, consult a qualified electrician. DO NOT modify plug. For mobile homes, installation must conform to standards.
FINAL CHECKLIST:
- Main power on.
- Washer plugged in.
- Water faucets on.
- Unit level.
- Shipping materials removed.
- Drain hose secured.
- No leaks.
- Run through complete cycle, check for leaks and operation.
Place these instructions near the washer for future reference.
Operating Instructions
Features and appearance may vary by model.
Steps for Operation:
- Add fabric softener to dispenser (see page 10).
- Add recommended amount of detergent. Use HE detergents. Place pods in bottom of wash basket.
- Loosely add items around Infusor. Overloading may affect performance.
- Close lid. (Washer will not start with lid open).
- Select wash cycle and options (e.g., Deep Rinse).
- Press Start.
Control Panel Description:
- Power Button (A): Wakes display or puts washer in idle mode. Does not disconnect from power supply.
- Start/Pause Button (B): Starts cycle. Press Pause to unlock lid and pause cycle. Press Start again to resume. If paused over 24 hours, cycle cancels.
- Display (C): Shows estimated time remaining. Scrolls status like BALANCING, DELAY, End, FILL, H2O SUPPLY, Lid, SEnSing, PAUSE.
- Cycle Status Lights: Indicate Delay, Fill, Soak, Wash, Rinse, Spin. Blinking Spin light indicates out-of-balance condition.
Wash Cycles & Options:
| Items to Wash | Cycle | Wash Temp | Soil Level | Spin Selection | Options Available | Cycle Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal, regular cottons | Colors | Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Normal wash for up to a full load of normally soiled cotton clothing. Higher settings for better cleaning. Multi-stage fills/washes for fabric care. |
| Casual clothes, lightly soiled office wear | Casuals | Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Wash cycle tailored for casual clothes and office wear. |
| Lingerie, special care fabrics | Delicates | Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Unique "tri-pulse" extra gentle agitate profile for delicate fabrics. Use mesh bags for small items. |
| Medium to lightly soiled athletic wear, technical/synthetic fabrics | Active Wear | Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Designed for medium to lightly soiled active wear. Dual stage wash with soak for body soils/odors. Use Heavy Duty for heavily soiled sports clothing. |
| Dark colored fabrics, mixed loads | Colors | Cold Wash, Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Combines multiple wash/agitation/soak periods for enhanced cleaning with colder water. |
| Small loads needed quickly | Speed Wash | Hot, Warm, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Utilizes intense agitation and expedited wash/time-saving spray rinse for fast cleaning of small loads. |
| Wet load needing rinse only | Drain & Spin | N/A | N/A | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Deep Rinse, Extra Rinse | High speed spin to extract water. Use Deep Rinse for rinsing. |
| Cleaning basket residue/odor | Basket Clean | Hot | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Deep Fill, Deep Rinse, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Recommended monthly. Uses more water and bleach. Do not load clothes. |
| High cotton content, heat resistant items (towels, denim, sheets) | SaniFresh with Oxi | Hot | Ex. Heavy | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Designed to remove 99.9% of bacteria. Requires min. 120°F hot water. |
| Medium to light soil jeans | Jeans | Hot, Warm, Colors, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Higher water levels, multi-step wash/soak for jeans. Use Heavy Duty for heavily soiled work jeans. |
| Heavy to medium soil sturdy fabrics | Heavy Duty | Hot, Warm, Colors, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Multi-step wash/soak with extended wash periods for heavy soil. |
| Large bulky items (coats, bedspreads) | Bulky Items | Hot, Warm, Colors, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Deep Fill, Deep Rinse, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Deep Fill/max fill water level with specific agitation profile for bulky items. Deep Fill rinse. |
| Towels, sheets | Towels/Sheets | Hot, Warm, Colors, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Higher water level and soak period for towels/sheets. Wash separately. |
| Whites, household linens | Whites | Hot, Warm, Colors, Cool, Cold, Tap Cold | Ex. Heavy, Heavy, Normal, Light | Max, More, Normal, No Spin | Stain Removal Guide, Deep Fill, Warm Rinse, Auto Soak, Deep Rinse, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse | Tailored to clean and brighten whites. |
Cycle Options Explained:
- Deep Fill: Adds extra water to the wash load. Hold for 3 seconds for deepest fill.
- Warm Rinse: Provides a warm rinse.
- Auto Soak: Agitates, soaks for a period, then continues cycle.
- Deep Rinse: Provides a deep rinse, may change other settings for performance. Recommended with fabric softener.
- Delay Wash: Sets a delayed start time (1-9 hours).
- Extra Rinse: Removes additional residues, useful with extra detergent/bleach.
- My Cycle Settings: Allows saving custom settings for a cycle.
- Volume: Adjusts end-of-cycle signal and system tones.
- Control Lock: Prevents accidental changes. Press Warm Rinse and Auto Soak for 3 seconds to lock/unlock.
- WiFi: Connects to smartphone for monitoring/control via SmartHQ App.
Loading and Using the Washer
Always follow fabric manufacturer's care label.
Proper Use of Detergent:
- Using too little or too much detergent causes problems.
- Use less detergent for soft water, smaller loads, or lightly soiled loads.
- For spots, apply pre-treatment as recommended on the label.
- Place detergent pods in the bottom of the wash basket before clothes.
- GE recommends High Efficiency (HE) detergents for energy-efficient washers.
Sorting Wash Loads: Sort by color, soil level, fabric type, and lint production (e.g., wash lint producers like towels separately from lint collectors like synthetics).
⚠️ WARNING - Fire Hazard: Never place items dampened with gasoline or other flammable liquids in the washer. Do not dry items that have had oil on them.
Loading the Washer:
- Load dry items loosely in the basket, evenly around the outside.
- To add items after starting, press Start/Pause, wait for lid unlock, then add items.
- Do not place large items like sheets or towels across the Infusor. Load them around the outside.
- Do not put cushions in the washer; remove covers and wash them only.
- Diagrams show Average Small Load, Average Medium Load, Average Large Load with clothes and water levels indicated.
About Washer Features
Automatic Load Sensing: Determines correct agitate profile, duration, and water amount for load size/type. Washer won't start if lid is open. High efficiency system uses less water but provides effective cleaning.
Detergent Dispenser:
- Liquid or powdered HE detergent goes in the right side. Follow manufacturer's recommendations. Do not overfill.
- Single-dose laundry packets should NOT be added to the dispenser; place them in the wash basket.
Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser: Add to the left side of the dispenser drawer. Follow manufacturer's recommendations. Do not overfill.
Liquid Bleach: Add to the bleach dispenser in the front left corner. Follow manufacturer's recommendations. Do not apply directly to clothing. Do not mix with Oxi products in the same load.
Pretreatment: Place pretreatments (like Oxi products) directly in the bottom of the wash basket before loading clothes.
Care and Cleaning
Exterior of the Washer: Immediately wipe off spills with a damp cloth.
Interior of the Washer:
- Use the "Basket Clean" feature monthly.
- To run Basket Clean: Remove all items, pour 1 cup (250 ml) liquid bleach or cleaner into the basket, close lid, select Basket Clean, press Start. Do not interrupt the cycle.
- The dispenser drawer and siphon caps are not dishwasher safe. Clean with a damp cloth. Do not remove the dispenser box.
Water Supply Hoses: Should be replaced every 5 years.
Moving and Storage: Have service technician remove water from pump and hoses. Do not store where exposed to weather.
Long Vacations: Shut off water supply at faucets. Drain hoses and water filter pump area if freezing temperatures are expected.
GENERAL PRODUCT MEASUREMENTS:
- Diagram shows dimensions: Height (43.71"), Width (27.40"), Depth (27.00").
- Power cord length: 60.0" ± 0.250".
- Note: All dimensions are within ±1/8". Feet can be adjusted ± 3/8".
⚠️ WARNING - Electrical Shock Hazard: Certain internal parts present a risk of electric shock during servicing.
Consumer Help Indicator
The washer displays messages for simple remedies:
- Spin light blinking: Indicates an out-of-balance condition. Redistribute load and run Drain & Spin if needed.
- "H2O SUPPLY": Check water supply valves. A 4-minute lock-out occurs.
- "CANCELED": Machine paused for over 12 hours or stopped due to errors. A 4-minute lock-out occurs. Call 1 800 561 3344 if problem persists.
- "Lid": Shown if lid was not opened for 3 cycles. Open and close lid to reset. Call 1 800 561 3344 if problem persists.
Appliance Communication
WiFi Connect: Connects to WiFi for software updates and SmartHQ App features. Visit geappliances.com/connect for setup. Note your washer's serial number and MAC ID.
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and money by reviewing these common issues:
| Category | Possible Causes | What To Do |
|---|---|---|
| WATER | Small amount of water remaining in dispenser | Normal dispenser operation. |
| Short spray and delay after pushing Start | Lid opened and closed between cycle selection and start. Normal. | |
| Water level seems low | Normal for high efficiency washer. Water may not cover clothes. | |
| Low water flow | Water valve screens stopped up. Clean screens on hoses and machine. | |
| Water siphoning out of washer | Drain standpipe too low or hose too far into standpipe. Ensure 32" height and use anti-siphon clip. | |
| WATER (cont.) | Too many suds | Try less detergent. Use HE detergent. |
| Water leaks | Check hose connections, rubber washers, drain hose insertion. Check household plumbing. Ensure drain hose doesn't rub wall. | |
| Water temperature seems incorrect | Check fill hoses, water source pressure, house water heater settings (120°-140°F). | |
| Water pumped out before cycle is complete | Reset cycle. | |
| WATER (cont.) | Water won't drain | Drain hose kinked or improperly connected. Ensure proper standpipe height. |
| Washer spins and pauses at beginning | Normal; washer is sensing load. | |
| Washer won't operate | Check plug, circuit breaker/fuse, water supply. Ensure lid is closed and Start was pressed. Reset electronics if needed. | |
| Detergent packets not dissolving | Do not use packets in dispenser; place in basket. | |
| Unexplained time/settings changes | Normal; options may change others for performance. | |
| Basket seems loose | Normal; basket does not have a traditional brake. | |
| PERFORMANCE | Colored spots | Incorrect use of fabric softener. Use Deep Rinse. Pretreat and rewash. |
| Grayed or yellowed clothes | Dye transfer (sort colors), detergent amount, hard water (use conditioner/softener), water not hot enough, overloaded. | |
| Lint or residue on clothes | Dye transfer (sort colors), line drying, incorrect sorting, washing too long, detergent not dissolving, overloading. | |
| Clothes too wet | No spin selected, incorrect cycle selected, load out of balance. Redistribute load and run Drain & Spin. | |
| Snags, holes, tears, rips, excessive wear | Pins, snaps, hooks, zippers, sharp objects in pockets. Fasten items. Turn knits inside out. Undiluted chlorine bleach. Chemicals (hair bleach/dye). Incorrect cycles/sorting. Overloading. | |
| Wrinkling | Match cycle to fabric. Avoid mixing heavy/light items. Use fabric softener. Loosely load. Wash in warm/cold water. | |
| SOUNDS | "Clicking" | Shifter mechanism engaging/disengaging. Normal during agitate. |
| "Back and forth 'swoosh'" | Electric motor reversing direction. Normal for cleaning. | |
| "Clicking" behind Control during fill | Automatic Temperature Control Valve mixing water. Normal. | |
| Water flow changes during fill | Automatic Temperature Control Valve mixing water. Normal. | |
| "Humming" | Motor ramping up/down during spin, or drain pump operating. Normal. | |
| "Gurgling" | Water drain pump drawing in air. Normal during spin. | |
| Water "swishing" | Normal washing process, especially with smaller loads. | |
| Washer rocking/moving | Washer leveling legs uneven or not level. Adjust legs. | |
| "Squeaking" sound | Washer not level and rubbing on cabinet. Adjust legs. |
Warranty
One Year Limited Warranty: Covers defective parts and labor for one year from original purchase date.
Ten Year Limited Warranty: Covers motor failure due to defects in materials or workmanship for ten years. Labor and related service costs are the owner's responsibility during this period.
What Is Not Covered: Service trips for usage instruction, improper installation/maintenance, product abuse/misuse, commercial use, fuse replacement, non-defective products, accidents, fire, floods, acts of God, incidental/consequential damage, operation in freezing temperatures, damage after delivery, inaccessible product for service.
Implied warranties are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law.
In Canada: Warranty terms may vary. Consult local consumer affairs office.
Warrantor: MC COMMERCIAL INC., BURLINGTON, ON L7R 5B6
Consumer Support
GE Appliances Website: Available 24/7 for manuals, parts, service scheduling. Visit GEAppliances.ca.
Schedule Service: Online or by phone at 1.800.561.3344.
Real Life Design Studio: Information on Universal Design applications.
Extended Warranties: Purchase online or call 1-800-561-3344.
Parts and Accessories: Find nearest service center or call 1 800 661 1616.
Contact Us: For service dissatisfaction, write to Director, Consumer Relations, MC Commercial, Suite 300, 5420 North Service Road, Burlington, Ontario, L7R 5B6. For installation questions, call 1-800-561-3344 (Canada).
Register Your Appliance: Register online for enhanced communication and service.
