Last Updated on September 4, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If your GE dishwasher isn’t draining, you’re not alone. This is a common problem with these appliances. Fortunately, it’s easy to fix. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to solve the issue. So if your GE dishwasher is not draining properly, follow these instructions and get it up and running again in no time!
Related: 9 Dishwasher Brands To Avoid and 3 Most Reliable Brands
Reasons Why GE Dishwasher Not Draining
1. Air Gap.
The air gap is a small, round, plastic cap that sits on top of your sink. It has a small hole in the center and two hoses coming out of the sides.
One hose goes to your dishwasher and the other goes to your drain. The purpose of the air gap is to keep dirty water from backing up into your dishwasher.
Why does it fail?
Over time, the hole in the air gap can become clogged with grease and food particles. This can cause water to back up into your dishwasher, causing it to fail.
If your dishwasher is not draining, the first thing you should check is the air gap. If it is clogged, it will prevent water from flowing out of the dishwasher.
To clean the air gap, remove it from the sink and use a small brush to clean out the hole in the center. You can also rinse it out with water.
How to prevent it?
To prevent the air gap from becoming clogged, make sure to clean it regularly. You can use a small brush to clean out the hole in the center, or you can rinse it out with water.
2. Blockage In The Sump.
Your dishwasher has a sump, which is located under the lower spray arm. The function of the sump is to catch any water that is sprayed up from the bottom of the dishwasher and drain it back down.
If there is something blocking the sump, such as a piece of food or grease, it can cause your dishwasher to not drain properly.
To clean the sump, you will need to remove the lower spray arm and then unscrew the sump cover. Be careful when doing this, as there may be water in the sump that can spill out.
Once you have removed the cover, you can clean out any debris that is blocking the sump. Once you have done this, you can screw the cover back on and replace the lower spray arm.
3. Check Ball.
When your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be draining properly, one of the first things you should check is the check ball. The check ball is a small, round, white plastic piece that is located near the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
If the check ball is not seated properly in its hole, or if it is damaged, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
To check the check ball:
-Remove the dishwasher from its power source.
-Unscrew and remove the dishwasher’s access panel. This is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, in front.
-Locate the check ball. It will be near the bottom of the dishwasher tub, and may be held in place by a clip or retainer.
-Inspect the check ball for damage. If it is damaged, replace it with a new one.
-If the check ball is not damaged, try to reseat it in its hole. Make sure that it is seated firmly and securely.
-Screw the access panel back on, and screw it tightly in place.
-Turn the dishwasher back on, and run a test cycle to see if it is draining properly.
4. Check Valve.
The check valve is located on the drain line, and its purpose is to keep water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the check valve is defective, it can cause the dishwasher not to drain properly.
Why does it fail?
The check valve can fail due to a variety of reasons, but the most common is a build-up of debris on the valve itself.
How do I fix it?
If you suspect that your check valve is the problem, you’ll need to clean it out. The best way to do this is to remove the drain line from the dishwasher and clean it with a brush. You can also try using a plunger to remove any debris that may be stuck in the valve.
If your dishwasher is still not draining properly after cleaning the check valve, you may need to replace it. You can purchase a new check valve at most hardware stores.
To replace the check valve:
-Shut off the power to the dishwasher.
-Remove the hose from the check valve.
-Remove the check valve from the dishwasher.
-Install the new check valve in the dishwasher.
-Reconnect the hose to the check valve.
-Turn on the power to the dishwasher.
5. Chopper Blade.
The chopper blade is a small, circular piece of metal with sharp blades that rotate. It is located at the bottom of the dishwasher near the drain.
The chopper blade chops up food particles and helps to prevent them from clogging the drain. If the chopper blade is damaged or worn out, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
How to fix it?
You will need to replace the chopper blade. You can find replacement blades at most hardware stores. This is a relatively easy repair that can be done yourself. Simply remove the old chopper blade and install the new one in its place.
Once you have replaced the blade, be sure to run a few cycles of dishwasher cleaner through your machine to remove any build-up that may have occurred.
6. Drain Filter.
If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, one of the first things you should check is the drain filter. The drain filter is located under the lower spray arm and is responsible for catching any food or debris that comes off of your dishes during the wash cycle.
To clean your dishwasher’s drain filter, first remove the lower spray arm by unscrewing it. Then, unscrew the drain filter and clean any debris from the screen. Rinse the screen well and screw the filter back into place. Finally, replace the lower spray arm.
7. Drain Hose.
If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, the first thing to check is the drain hose. The hose might be clogged, or there might be a problem with the connection.
Why does it fail?
Over time, the drain hose can become clogged with food and grease. This can cause the dishwasher to stop draining properly.
How do you fix it?
First, check the hose for any blockages. If there are none, then check the connection. Make sure that the hose is connected securely to the drainage pipe. You may need to replace the hose if it is damaged.
To replace the hose:
-Turn off the power to the dishwasher.
-Disconnect the dishwasher from the water supply.
-Remove the drain hose from the drainage pipe.
-Cut a new piece of hose that is the same length as the old one.
-Attach the new hose to the drainage pipe.
-Reconnect the dishwasher to the water supply.
-Turn on the power to the dishwasher.
Test the dishwasher to see if it is draining properly.
8. Drain Pump.
If your GE dishwasher isn’t draining properly, the first thing you should check is the drain pump.
You can find the drain pump on the back of the dishwasher, near the bottom. It is usually a small, round, black or white part. The drain pump helps to move water out of the dishwasher and into the sink. If the pump is clogged or not working properly, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
To remove the pump, you will need to unscrew it from the dishwasher. Once you have unscrewed the pump, you can clean it with a brush. If the pump is damaged, you will need to replace it.
To replace the pump, you will need to purchase a new one from a local appliance store. Once you have the new pump, you can follow the instructions that came with it to install it.
9. Drain Pump Impeller.
The impeller is a small, plastic piece with curved blades that spins to move water through the drain pump. If your dishwasher isn’t draining, the impeller might be broken or damaged.
To replace the impeller:
-First, remove the lower dish rack and spray arm.
-Then, unscrew the drain pump cover and remove the old impeller.
-Finally, install the new impeller and screw the drain pump cover back on.
10. Drain Solenoid.
The drain solenoid is an important component of your dishwasher. It helps to pump water out of the dishwasher and into the sink. If your dishwasher is not draining properly, it may be because the drain solenoid is not working correctly.
Why does it fail?
There are a few reasons why the drain solenoid may fail. It could be because the solenoid is clogged, the power to the solenoid is not working, or the solenoid itself is damaged.
How to fix it?
There are a few things that you can do to troubleshoot this problem. First, check to see if the drain solenoid is dirty. If it is, clean it with a rag and some dish soap. If this does not solve the problem, you may need to replace the drain solenoid.
To replace the drain solenoid, you will need to:
-Turn off the power to the dishwasher.
-Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
-Remove the dishwasher’s access panel.
-Locate the drain solenoid.
-Remove the old drain solenoid and install a new one in its place.
-Reconnect the dishwasher to the power supply.
-Turn on the power to the dishwasher.
11. Drain Valve.
If your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be draining properly, the first thing you should check is the drain valve.
This is a small valve located near the bottom of the dishwasher that controls the flow of water in and out of the dishwasher.
If this valve is not working properly, it can cause your dishwasher to not drain correctly.
To check the drain valve, first make sure that the dishwasher is turned off and the power is disconnected. Then, remove the access panel to the drain valve.
This is usually located near the bottom of the dishwasher. Once you have removed the access panel, you will be able to see the drain valve.
If the drain valve is dirty or clogged, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly. To clean the valve, simply remove any debris that may be blocking it and then flush it out with water.
You should also check the hoses leading to and from the valve to make sure they are not blocked.
12. Garbage Disposal.
A garbage disposal is a device, usually electrically powered, installed under a kitchen sink between the sink’s drain and the trap. The disposal unit shreds food waste into pieces small enough—generally less than two inches (51 mm)—to pass through plumbing.
There are many reasons why your dishwasher might not be draining. One possibility is that the garbage disposal is jammed and needs to be reset. Another possibility is that the drain line is clogged.
If you suspect that the drain line is clogged, you can try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear the blockage.
13. High Loop.
The high loop is a dishwasher installation method where the drain hose loops up above the level of the sink before running down to the garbage disposal or drain. This is done to prevent dirty water from being siphoned back into the dishwasher.
If your GE dishwasher isn’t draining, one issue could be that it’s not installed with a high loop. If the drain hose isn’t installed with a high loop, water can siphon back into the dishwasher, causing it to not drain properly.
To fix this issue, you’ll need to install the drain hose with a high loop. This can be done by yourself or by hiring a professional. Either way, once the high loop is installed, your GE dishwasher should drain properly.
14. Pump and Motor Assembly.
The dishwasher pump and motor assembly are located under the dishwasher. The dishwasher pump circulates water through the dishwasher during the wash cycle.
The motor assembly powers the pump. If your dishwasher is not draining, you may need to replace the pump and/or motor assembly.
You can access the pump and motor assembly by removing the dishwasher kickplate. The kickplate is the panel at the bottom of the dishwasher that covers the floor.
To remove the kickplate, unscrew the screws that hold it in place. Once you have removed the screws, pull the kickplate off of the dishwasher.
Once you have access to the pump and motor assembly, you will need to remove the dishwasher pump. The dishwasher pump is held in place by two screws.
Remove the screws and carefully pull the dishwasher pump out of the motor assembly.
Once you have removed the dishwasher pump, you will need to replace it with a new one. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old pump.
Once you have replaced the dishwasher pump, you will need to replace the motor assembly. To do this, unscrew the two screws that hold the motor assembly in place and carefully pull it out of the dishwasher.
Once you have removed the motor assembly, you will need to replace it with a new one. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old motor assembly.
Once you have replaced the motor assembly, you will need to screw it back into place and replace the dishwasher kickplate. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old kickplate.
15. Sink or Faucet Leak.
If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, the first thing you should check is whether there’s a leak in your sink or faucet. A leaking sink or faucet can cause the dishwasher to back up and not drain properly.
To check for a leak, first make sure that the water supply to the dishwasher is turned off. Then, open the dishwasher door and look for any water on the floor of the dishwasher or on the dishes. If you see any water, then there is probably a leak in your sink or faucet.
To repair a leaky sink or faucet, you’ll need to replace the O-ring or washer. To do this, you’ll need to remove the handle of the sink or faucet.
Once the handle is removed, you should be able to see the O-ring or washer. Simply replace the O-ring or washer with a new one and then reattach the handle.
16. Timer.
The timer is responsible for turning the dishwasher on and off. If your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be draining, one of the first things you should check is the timer.
First, locate the timer. It is usually located near the top of the dishwasher, behind the control panel. Once you have located it, turn it counterclockwise to see if the dishwasher starts draining. If it doesn’t, turn it back and try again.
17. Too Much Detergent.
If you’ve ever run a dishwasher, you know that there’s a delicate balance to strike when it comes to detergent. Too little and your dishes won’t get clean; too much and they can end up covered in soap suds.
The same is true for your GE dishwasher. If you use too much detergent, it can cause your dishwasher to not drain properly. When this happens, the water doesn’t get hot enough to evaporate the detergent, so it just sits in the bottom of your dishwasher.
If you find that your GE dishwasher isn’t draining, the first thing you should do is check the amount of detergent you’re using. If you’re using more than the recommended amount, try cutting back and see if that helps.
If you’re not sure how much detergent to use, consult your GE dishwasher’s manual. They should have a section on how much detergent to use depending on the size of your load.
18. Wrong Type of Detergent.
If you’re using the wrong type of detergent, your dishwasher may not be able to properly drain. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what kind of detergent is recommended for your model.
If you find that you are using the wrong type of detergent, simply switch to the recommended type and your dishwasher should start draining properly.
19. Water Level.
The water level in a dishwasher is the maximum amount of water that can be held in the tub at any given time.
This is important to know because it will determine how much detergent and how much water you need to add to your machine.
The water level in a dishwasher is also affected by the type of detergent you use, the hardness of your water, and the amount of food and grease on your dishes.
20. Water Pump Belt.
The water pump belt is located under the dishwasher. It is a black rubber belt that goes around the dishwasher’s motor pulley. The belt helps to move the impeller, which pumps water out of the dishwasher.
If your GE dishwasher is not draining, it is likely because the water pump belt has broken or become loose. To fix this, you will need to replace the water pump belt. This is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself.
To replace the water pump belt:
- Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
- Remove the dishwasher’s kickplate by unscrewing the two screws that hold it in place.
- Locate the water pump belt. It is a black rubber belt that goes around the dishwasher’s motor pulley.
- Remove the old water pump belt by taking it off of the motor pulley.
- Install the new water pump belt by putting it on the motor pulley.
- Reconnect the dishwasher to the power outlet.
- Turn on the dishwasher and run it through a cycle to make sure that it is draining properly.
Related:
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- 14 Reasons Why Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Washing – {How to Fix It}
How do you reset a GE dishwasher drain?
If your GE dishwasher is not draining properly, there are a few things you can try to reset the drain.
First, make sure that the dishwasher is turned off and unplugged.
Next, locate the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher. The hose may be clogged with food or other debris. To clean the hose, disconnect it from the dishwasher and flush it out with a garden hose.
Once the hose is clear, reconnect it to the dishwasher and turn on the water supply.
Finally, run the dishwasher through a cycle to see if the problem has been resolved.
Why is there standing water in my GE dishwasher?
There are a few reasons why there may be standing water in your GE dishwasher. One possibility is that the dishwasher isn’t draining properly.
Another possibility is that the dishwasher doesn’t have enough water pressure to pump the water out. Finally, it’s possible that there is something blocking the dishwasher’s drain.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, it’s best to call a GE dishwasher repair technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
How do I get rid of standing water in my GE dishwasher?
If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, there could be a few different reasons why. One of the most common reasons is that there’s standing water in the dishwasher. This can happen for a number of reasons, but fortunately it’s usually an easy problem to fix.
There are a few things you can try to get rid of standing water in your dishwasher. First, check the drain hose to make sure it’s not clogged. If it is, clear it out and see if that fixes the problem.
Another thing you can try is running a cycle with just hot water. This will help to break up any grease or food particles that might be causing the problem.
Conclusion
If your dishwasher is not draining, there are a few things that you can check. First, make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or blocked. Second, check the garbage disposal to see if it is jammed. Finally, if the dishwasher is still not draining, you may need to call a plumber.
Thank you for reading this blog post! We hope that it was helpful.
