GE Washer GFW550SSN5WW No Power

Brand: GE
Model Number: GFW550SSN5WW
Main Symptom: No power to main control screen/washer not turning on.
What happens & when: Front screen on washer does not light up or show any signs of life.

Error Code (if any): None, no activity on screen.
Parts or tests already tried: Have already tried replacing WH22X38697 (Ge WH22X38697 Washer Main Control Board OEM Part) and WH22X34917 (Ge WH22X34917 Washer User Interface Control Board OEM Part) without any luck. With WH22X34917 there is a required software update that needs to be performed prior to install, however, I cannot get the Sum Module’s orange light to turn on to start the process.

Hi tcrandcompany,

Here’s the service manual that will help you update the module. I’m also going to see if I can find the tech sheet for your model.

In the meantime, have you checked the inverter board and the wire harness leading to the main control board? Look for any signs of burned, damaged, or cut wires, as a wiring issue could also cause the problem you’re experiencing.

Hope this helps!

14.pdf (3.9 MB)

12.pdf (2.3 MB)

Hello @Jose_O_APP_Team,

No signs of burned, damaged, or cut wires. I reviewed the attachments you provided, but don’t see anywhere where it addresses how to troubleshoot the sum module’s orange light not turning on. In the instructions for WH22X34917 it very clearly states not to install unless this software update has been performed.

Any additional suggestions or guidance?

GFW550 Series — SUM Module Connection and Programming

Do not use the RJ45 Ethernet port located on the back panel of the washer.

For the GFW550 series, completely remove the detergent dispenser drawer. Look directly inside or next to the empty detergent dispenser cavity for the internal RJ45 service programming jack. Remove the rubber protective grommet and connect the SUM data cable directly to this service port.

Correct Power-Up Sequence

If the main control board is already fully awake or completely unpowered, it may not provide power to the programming module. Use the following sequence:

  1. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
  2. Leave the washer unplugged for 5 full minutes to allow the control board capacitors to discharge.
  3. While the washer is still unplugged, firmly connect the module’s data cable to the RJ45 service jack near the detergent dispenser.
  4. Plug the washer’s power cord back into the wall outlet.
  5. Watch the module’s indicator lights. If communication begins normally, the orange light should illuminate solid and the green light should begin blinking.

Check for Interrupted Board Communication

If the orange light comes on briefly and then goes out, or if the orange and green lights begin flashing in a repeating pattern, the software upload may have failed.

A rapid flashing pattern followed by an approximately 5-second pause can indicate a communication failure between the programming module and the main control board.

If this occurs, verify that the SUM cable is fully seated in the correct service jack and repeat the power-up procedure. If the communication failure continues, further diagnosis of the main control board or programming connection may be necessary.