Opening your GE dishwasher and finding a puddle of dirty water inside can undoubtedly be an unwelcome surprise. While standing water seems like a clear sign of a GE dishwasher not draining, pinpointing the cause can feel less clear. Why is my GE dishwasher not draining? To clarify the problem, we’ll review the most common reasons your unit won’t drain from a clogged dishwasher filter to an impeller malfunction.
Troubleshooting a GE Dishwasher Not Draining
Searching for your owner’s manual or conducting “GE dishwasher won’t drain at end of cycle” Internet searches takes up time that could be spent solving your drainage problems. Our list of the most common reasons for a GE dishwasher not draining will cut to the most likely causes and solutions.
Dishwasher Filter Is Clogged
A dishwasher’s filter screens out large food particles and debris, preventing them from clogging the dishwasher drain. However, the filter can become blocked with debris if it’s not cleaned regularly. This leaves the drain vulnerable to food remnants that can cause clogs and result in a GE dishwasher, not draining.
For optimal function and to prevent drain clogs, we recommend cleaning the dishwasher filter monthly. Follow these simple steps to clean your GE dishwasher’s Fine and Ultra-Fine Filter:
- Remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack
- Twist the Ultra-Fine Filter counterclockwise and pull upwards to remove
- Remove the Fine Filter by twisting the two posts in the rear of the tub counterclockwise
- Rinse each filter separately with warm, soapy water, scrubbing at stubborn stains with a soft sponge
- Replace the Fine Filter first, turning the rear posts clockwise
- Lock the Ultra-Fine Filter in place by twisting clockwise
Garbage Disposal is Clogged
If you have a garbage disposal, your dishwasher and disposal likely share a common drain. If the disposal is clogged with debris, water from the dishwasher can’t drain properly and can back up into the dishwasher during a wash cycle. At this point, you’ll notice that your dishwasher has standing water after cycle ends.
We recommend running the garbage disposal before starting a wash cycle. This will clear the drain of any lingering food particles that can cause clogs and backups.
Too Much Detergent
Instead of resulting in cleaner dishes, too much detergent can often lead to drainage issues. Extra detergent can create too many suds that can clog the drain. When clogged with suds, water can’t enter the drain during a wash cycle, and you’ll find your GE dishwasher not draining after cycle ends. You may also notice suds seeping out of the washer and onto the floor.
If you don’t use a pre-measured detergent pod or tablet, refer to your user manual for recommended detergent measurements for your washer. The manual may specify different amounts to use for hard or soft water.
GE Dishwasher Part Malfunction
If your GE dishwasher not draining continues, a part malfunction may be causing the problem. The following parts can cause drainage issues when they fail:
Drain Impeller: this component pushes dishwasher water through the drain hose and into the drain. If it malfunctions, water may not drain appropriately, and the impeller must be replaced.
Drain Pump: the drain pump powers the impeller with its motor. If the pump’s motor malfunctions, the impeller can’t function and adequately flush out water. A faulty drain pump cannot be repaired and requires replacement.
Drain Valve: in order for water to leave the dishwasher, the drain valve must open to allow water to exit. Over time the drain valve can become blocked with debris and be unable to open, leaving water in the dishwasher. While cleaning a dirty valve can resolve drainage issues, a malfunctioning valve needs replacement.
Don’t let dishwasher drainage problems flood your mind (and kitchen). Call Toledo’s GE dishwasher experts to help solve the problem!
