Speed Queen Washer-Extractor Error Code E d 31: Overload Current
E d 31 is an overload current detection on CHM1792C washer-extractors. The motor drew more current than the drive allows during a cycle, usually because the drum is hard to turn or the load is too heavy. Shut the machine off, take part of the load out if it was packed, and call us if it returns on a normal load.
Medium: the drive stops the motor, but a lighter load often solves it.
- Code
- E d 31
- Maker
- Speed Queen
- Equipment
- Washers
- Applies to
- CHM1792C family washer-extractor (QN models, 20-100 lb) front-end control
What does Speed Queen error code E d 31 mean?
Each cycle asks the motor to do a certain amount of work, and the drive keeps an eye on how much current that takes. If the motor pulls more than the drive allows, the drive stops the motor and shows E d 31 (display text: E d 31). The most ordinary reason is mechanical: the drum is hard to turn, or the load is heavier than the machine can handle. The owner's manual says to check that the drum spins freely, look for overloading, and power down to clear the code. It lists a drum hard to turn that draws heavy current, a load too heavy for the drive to handle, a motor or harness drawing extra current, and a drive board that cuts the motor on overload. Different from E d 23 and E d 24, which are fatal hardware protections, this one is a detection during normal running, so it is the first place to look when a full load of wet linens was just added.
Affected models and control systems
Speed Queen CHM1792C family washer-extractors (QN models, 20-100 lb) with the front-end control. Other washer-extractor families, such as CHM495R, list different codes.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- E d 31 on the display
- The machine stops while accelerating or spinning
- The code appears mostly with full loads
Possible causes
Listed in Speed Queen's documentation
- Drum hard to turn, drawing heavy current
- Load too heavy for the drive to handle
- Motor or harness drawing extra current
- Drive board cutting the motor on overload
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code E d 31 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Wet towels or blankets bunched on one side of the basket
- A worn bearing adding drag only at higher spin speeds
Safe checks before calling for service
- Shut the machine off; the owner's manual treats a power-down as the way to clear it.
- Hold off on opening the door until the lock lets go.
- If the drum was packed, take part of the load out.
- If the code returns on a normal load, send us a service request and note the load type.
How a technician diagnoses error code E d 31
- Read E d 31 and compare the load weight with the machine's rated capacity.
- Turn the basket by hand with power locked out to check for drag.
- Inspect the harness and motor for insulation damage.
- Measure motor current against its rating during a start.
- Replace the motor or drive board only if the mechanical checks pass.
- Measuring motor current is live work at 208-240 V with the cabinet open.
- A bearing that adds drag may need the basket drive taken apart.
- Distinguishing a motor from a drive problem requires comparing current readings with a specification.
How error code E d 31 differs from similar codes
E d 31 is an overload detection in normal running, unlike the fatal E d 23 and E d 24.
Technical reference
- Document
- Washer-Extractor Programming CHM1792C_SVG, Part No. F8641001ENR4, Error Codes Table 29 (pp. 100-107)
- Edition
- Part No. F8641001ENR4, January 2020
- Models / control
- CHM1792C family washer-extractor (QN models, 20-100 lb) front-end control
- Section
- Error Codes, Table 29, pp. 100-108 (PDF pages equal printed pages)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Speed Queen washer error codes
Is it just an overload?
Often yes, but if it happens on normal loads the drum, motor or drive needs a check.
How much load is too much?
Stay within the weight rating on the machine's data plate.
Will it clear on its own?
A power-down clears the display; the cause remains if it was mechanical.
Need help with Speed Queen error code E d 31?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.