Have a GE dishwasher that’s acting up? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Dishwashers make life easier, but when something goes wrong, it can be frustrating. Luckily, many problems have simple fixes you can do at home. In this article, I’ll walk you through common GE dishwasher issues, why they happen, and how to fix them.
Dishwasher Not Starting or Powering On
Check the Power Supply and Door Latch
The first thing to do if your GE dishwasher won’t start is to check the power. It sounds simple, but sometimes the plug gets loose or the breaker trips. Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in properly. Then, check your home’s circuit breaker panel and flip the switch off and on again for the dishwasher.
Another thing to check is the door latch. The dishwasher won’t start if the door isn’t closed properly. Push the door firmly to see if it clicks shut. If the latch is broken or not catching, the dishwasher won’t know it’s safe to start.
If your GE model has a control lock feature (also called a child lock), the controls may be disabled. Look for a padlock symbol or “Control Lock” button on the display. Press and hold that button for 3 to 5 seconds to turn it off. The light should go off, and the buttons should work again.
Reset the Dishwasher Controls
Sometimes, the control panel may freeze. This can happen after a power outage or a small error in the system. You can reset most GE dishwashers by pressing the ‘Start’ or ‘Reset’ button and holding it for about 3 seconds. The dishwasher may beep and start draining the water.
You can also do a hard reset. Turn off the dishwasher from the breaker box or unplug it from the wall. Wait for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and try to start it again.
If your control panel lights are on, but nothing is happening, there may be a problem with the electronic control board. That’s a more advanced issue and might need a technician, but checking the simpler stuff first can save time and money.
Look at the Delay Start Feature
GE dishwashers often have a “Delay Start” feature. This lets you run the dishwasher later. If it’s set by mistake, your dishwasher won’t start right away. Check the display to see if a delay timer is set. Press the Delay Start button or cancel the delay to make it run immediately.
Also, if the display looks strange or has blinking lights, look in your GE dishwasher manual for the error codes. These codes can help you figure out what’s wrong. Most manuals are also available online if you don’t have a paper copy.
Dishwasher Not Draining Properly
Inspect the Drain Hose
A common reason your GE dishwasher won’t drain is a blocked or kinked drain hose. The hose connects from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. If water isn’t draining out, pull the dishwasher slightly away from the wall and inspect the hose. It should be free of kinks and clogs.
Check where the hose connects to the garbage disposal or sink. Sometimes food debris or grease builds up and blocks the end. You can remove the hose and rinse it out under running water. Use a long flexible brush or even a straightened coat hanger to gently push out anything stuck inside.
Make sure the hose is installed with a high loop. That means the hose should be lifted up under the counter before going down to the drain. This helps prevent dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
Clean the Air Gap or Garbage Disposal
If your kitchen sink has an air gap (a small cylinder near the faucet), it might be clogged. Twist off the cap and check for any gunk. Rinse it clean with hot water and reattach the cap.
If your GE dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal, make sure the knockout plug inside the disposal port is removed. This is especially important if the dishwasher is newly installed. Also, run the garbage disposal to make sure it isn’t clogged. A blocked disposal can stop the dishwasher from draining too.
Check the Drain Filter and Sump Area
Inside the bottom of your GE dishwasher, there’s a filter and drain area that can collect food particles, broken glass, and other debris. Remove the bottom rack and check the filter. It’s usually easy to twist and lift out.
Rinse the filter under warm water and gently scrub with a soft brush. Be careful not to damage the mesh. Wipe out any gunk from the sump area using a paper towel or soft cloth. Make sure the impeller (a small spinning part under the filter) moves freely.
If everything is clear and your dishwasher still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty. You’ll often hear a humming noise but no water movement. This might need a repair technician unless you’re comfortable opening up the base of the dishwasher.
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes Properly
Load the Dishwasher Correctly
Believe it or not, how you load your dishwasher can affect how clean your dishes get. Overloading or placing items the wrong way blocks the spray arms. Make sure dishes aren’t stacked on top of each other. Cups should go upside down on the top rack. Plates should face the center on the bottom rack.
Avoid blocking the detergent dispenser. If something stops it from opening all the way, your dishes won’t get clean. Large pans or cutting boards can also block water flow if placed in front of the spray arms.
Leave space between items so water can spray around freely. It’s better to do two smaller loads than one jam-packed load that doesn’t clean well.
Check the Spray Arms
GE dishwashers have rotating spray arms that shoot out water. If they’re clogged with hard water deposits or food bits, they can’t do their job well. Take out the racks and remove the spray arms. Most snap off or unscrew easily.
Hold them under running water to check for blockages in the holes. Use a toothpick or a small wire to gently clean each hole. Rinse them well before putting them back in. Make sure they spin freely when reinstalled.
If your dishwasher uses a middle spray arm or bottle jets, check those too. All spray arms need to rotate properly and spray at full force to clean effectively.
Use the Right Detergent and Rinse Aid
Not all detergents work the same. Make sure you’re using a good quality dishwasher detergent that works well with your local water type (hard or soft). Avoid using too much detergent, as that can leave a film on dishes.
Rinse aid helps prevent water spots and allows dishes to dry better. Most GE dishwashers have a rinse aid dispenser. Fill it up and adjust the setting if needed.
Also, check the detergent dispenser itself. If it’s stuck or not opening during the wash, dishes won’t get cleaned properly. You can test it by running a short cycle with a bit of detergent in the open door and see if the dishwasher cleans better.
Run Hot Water Before Starting
Dishwashers clean better with hot water. Before you start a cycle, run the hot water in your sink for 30 seconds until it gets hot. This helps the dishwasher start with hot water from the very first spray.
If your dishes are still coming out dirty, try running a cleaning cycle. You can buy dishwasher cleaners or use a cup of white vinegar placed in the top rack, then run a hot cycle. This helps clear out grease and buildup from the inside.
Dishwasher Making Strange Noises or Leaking
Identify Normal vs. Abnormal Sounds
Some noises are normal during a wash cycle, like water spraying, the motor running, and the drain pump. But if you hear loud banging, grinding, or squealing, that’s not normal.
A grinding noise could mean something is caught in the pump or spray arm. Stop the dishwasher, open it, and check for loose utensils or broken bits. Make sure the spray arms aren’t hitting dishes.
If the sound is from the motor area and happens every cycle, the motor bearings might be failing. That usually requires professional repair, but catching it early can prevent bigger problems.
Check for Leaks Around the Door
If you see water on the floor in front of your GE dishwasher, check the door seal. Open the door and inspect the rubber gasket all the way around. It should be clean, soft, and unbroken. If it’s dirty, clean it with a damp cloth. If it’s worn out or torn, it may need to be replaced.
Also, make sure nothing is stopping the door from sealing properly. Sometimes a large pot or pan can press against the door and create a gap. Try rearranging your load and see if the leak goes away.
Look under the dishwasher as well. If the water is leaking underneath, it could be from a loose hose connection or a cracked water inlet valve.
Examine the Float Switch
Your GE dishwasher has a float switch that prevents it from overfilling with water. The float is usually a small round cap in the bottom of the dishwasher. Lift it gently. It should move up and down freely. If it’s stuck in the up position, the dishwasher may think it’s already full and stop filling.
Clean around the float with warm soapy water and make sure nothing is blocking it. A stuck float can also cause a water leak or stop the dishwasher from starting.
Inspect the Tub and Door Alignment
Finally, if the tub or door looks out of line, the dishwasher may not be sitting level. Use a level tool to check and adjust the feet if needed. If the door isn’t closing evenly, water can leak out one side during the cycle.
Make sure the dishwasher is securely mounted under the counter and that nothing inside is pushing against the door. A well-installed dishwasher is less likely to leak or make strange noises.
I hope this guide helped you feel more confident about fixing your GE dishwasher. Most problems have simple causes and easy solutions. With a little time and care, your dishwasher can be back to running like new.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it normal for a GE dishwasher to have some water in the bottom?
Yes, it’s normal to see a small amount of water at the bottom of your GE dishwasher after a cycle. This helps keep the seals moist and prevents them from drying out. However, if there’s a lot of standing water or it smells bad, it could mean the drain is clogged. In that case, you should check the filter, drain hose, and garbage disposal to clear any blockages.
Can I open my GE dishwasher mid-cycle?
Yes, you can open your GE dishwasher during a cycle, but be careful. When you open the door, the dishwasher will usually pause. Just slowly open it to avoid splashing hot water or steam. When you’re done checking or adding a dish, close the door firmly. The dishwasher should pick up where it left off after a short pause. If it doesn’t, you may need to press the Start button again.
Do I need to pre-rinse dishes before putting them in a GE dishwasher?
No, you don’t need to pre-rinse dishes before loading them into your GE dishwasher. Most GE models are designed to handle food particles, especially when using a good quality detergent. Just scrape off large chunks of food before loading. Pre-rinsing can actually reduce cleaning performance because detergents need some food particles to work properly. Too much rinsing also wastes water and time.
Is it safe to use vinegar to clean my GE dishwasher?
Yes, vinegar is a safe and natural way to clean your GE dishwasher. It helps remove grease, hard water stains, and odors. To clean, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack, then run a hot cycle without dishes or detergent. Don’t use vinegar too often, though, because it can slowly wear down rubber seals over time. Once a month is a good rule.
Can I use dish soap in my GE dishwasher?
No, you should never use regular dish soap in your GE dishwasher. It creates too many suds and can cause a big mess, including leaks and overflow. Always use dishwasher-specific detergent in the form of pods, powder, or gel. If you accidentally use dish soap, stop the dishwasher, remove as much suds as possible, and run a rinse cycle to clear it out.
Do I need rinse aid in my GE dishwasher?
Using rinse aid in your GE dishwasher is highly recommended, especially if you notice water spots or cloudy glasses. Rinse aid helps dishes dry better and prevents spotting by reducing surface tension. Most GE dishwashers have a dispenser for rinse aid with adjustable settings. If you live in an area with hard water, using rinse aid will make a noticeable difference in how your dishes look and dry.
Is it okay to run my GE dishwasher every day?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to run your GE dishwasher every day if you have enough dirty dishes. Daily use can even help prevent food buildup and odors. Modern dishwashers are very efficient and use less water than hand-washing. Just make sure to clean the filter regularly and run a cleaning cycle once a month to keep everything in good shape.
Can I wash pots and pans in my GE dishwasher?
Yes, most pots and pans labeled ‘dishwasher safe’ can go in your GE dishwasher. Place them on the bottom rack, facing down for better cleaning. Avoid putting nonstick or aluminum pans in unless the manufacturer says it’s safe. These materials can wear out faster or discolor. Also, large pans can block spray arms, so load them carefully to avoid poor cleaning results for the rest of your dishes.
