What to Do When Your GE Dishwasher Won’t Drain

Dishwashers are a modern convenience that makes our lives a little easier by doing the dirty work of washing dishes. They save time and effort, but a malfunctioning dishwasher can quickly become a frustrating problem. One common issue with dishwashers is when they fail to drain properly. If your GE dishwasher won’t drain water properly, there are some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem.

GE Dishwasher Won’t Drain? This May Be Why…

Before troubleshooting your GE dishwasher, you must understand the importance of proper maintenance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent issues with your dishwasher, including drainage problems.

Proper use and loading techniques, such as scraping off excess food, can help keep your dishwasher functioning properly. If you notice any issues with your GE dishwasher, it’s best to troubleshoot the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of GE Dishwasher Not Draining

If your GE dishwasher won’t drain, there could be several possible causes. Some of the most common causes include:

• Clogged Filter
• Malfunctioning Drain Pump or Motor
• Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose
• Issues with Float Switch
• Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal

By identifying the cause of the problem, you can take the appropriate steps to fix it.

How to Troubleshoot Dishwasher Drainage Issues

To troubleshoot your GE dishwasher, start by checking the dishwasher filter.

Check Filter

1. Locate the filter, usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Remove the filter by turning it counterclockwise or pulling it out.
3. Check the filter for any debris or food particles causing a clog. Remove any debris or particles that you find.
4. Clean the filter with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, removing any residue or buildup.
5. Rinse the filter thoroughly with clean water.
6. Replace the filter by following your Owner’s Manual or GE’s website instructions.
7. If the filter is damaged or broken, it will need to be replaced.
8. Turn on the dishwasher and see if it begins to drain properly. If not, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Inspect Drain

1. Locate the drain and visibly inspect it for blockages, such as food particles or debris. Remove any visible blockages if necessary.
2. If the drain appears to be clear, run a small amount of hot water down the drain to help flush out any remaining debris.
3. Turn on the dishwasher and see if it begins to drain properly. If not, it may be due to an electrical component issue, such as a faulty drain pump or float switch. In this case, it’s best to contact a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.

Check Garbage Disposal

1. Run the disposal to ensure it’s functioning properly. If it’s not, reset the disposal by pressing the reset button on the bottom or side of the unit.
2. If the disposal is clogged or jammed, turn off the power and use a wooden spoon or pliers to remove any debris or foreign objects from the disposal. Do not use your hands or any metal tools.
3. Turn on the disposal again and run water down the sink to ensure the disposal is draining properly.
4. Turn on the dishwasher and see if it begins to drain properly. If not, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Inspect Drain Hose for Kinks or Blocked

1. Locate the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher and follow it to where it connects to the sink or garbage disposal.
2. Check the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or twists that could restrict water flow.
3. Straighten out the hose if necessary, being careful not to cause any further damage to the hose or other parts of the dishwasher.
4. If the hose is damaged and cannot be straightened out, it’s best to contact a professional to replace it. Attempting to replace the hose yourself could cause further damage to the dishwasher or result in a flood.

Test Functionality of the Float Switch

1. Locate the float switch at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. The switch is usually a small, round, or oval-shaped mechanism.
2. Check to see if the float switch is moving freely. Gently lift the switch up and down to see if it is stuck or not moving.
3. If the switch is stuck, try cleaning it with a soft cloth or toothbrush to remove any dirt or debris causing it to stick.
4. After cleaning the switch, lift it up and down again to see if it’s moving freely.
5. If the switch isn’t moving, it may need to be replaced.

If your GE dishwasher won’t drain after following these troubleshooting steps, it’s best to contact the GE dishwasher repair experts at Atomic Tech. We can help diagnose and fix any issues with your dishwasher to get it running smoothly again.