GE Dishwasher Not Draining? How to Diagnose and Repair the Issue

Is your GE dishwasher not draining after the wash cycle completes? Few things are more annoying than opening your dishwasher expecting clean dishes, only to find standing water and soggy food particles left behind. But don't worry - with some targeted troubleshooting, you can likely get your dishwasher draining properly again.

We'll provide tips on diagnosing the issue, step-by-step instructions for DIY repairs, and advice on when it's best to call in a professional. With the right information, you can get your GE dishwasher emptied of water and washing dishes effectively once more.

What Causes a GE Dishwasher to Not Drain?

There are several possible culprits when a GE dishwasher won't fully drain after the wash cycle completes:

• A clogged filter
• Drain hose is blocked or kinked
• Clogged air gap
• Problems with the connected garbage disposal
• Excess detergent causing suds buildup

The filter is often the first thing to check, as food particles and debris can easily clog the small holes. Issues with the drain hose, air gap, or garbage disposal prevent proper water flow out of the dishwasher. Too much detergent leaves behind excessive suds that can block drainage as well.

Diagnosing the Drainage Issue

Start troubleshooting a non-draining GE dishwasher by running a short diagnostic cycle without any dishes. If water remains at the end, the issue is with drainage rather than the wash pump itself. Here are some steps to isolate the problem:

• Check the filter - Remove it from the bottom of the tub and rinse under water to dislodge debris. Replace if still obstructed.
• Inspect spray arms - Spin the lower spray arm to ensure it rotates freely.
• Listen for odd sounds - Drainage issues may cause gurgling noises or a hum from the pump.
• Monitor water flow - Does it back up to the bottom spray arm or leak near the door?
• Locate standing water - Note where it pools to pinpoint the clog.

Also examine the drain hose, air gap, and garbage disposal if hooked up. You're looking for any blockages preventing water from exiting the dishwasher.

How to Fix a Clogged Filter in a GE Dishwasher

A clogged filter is one of the most common reasons a GE dishwasher fails to drain properly. Food particles and debris become trapped in the filter over time, obstructing water flow. To clean the filter:

1. Twist off the lower spray arm for access.
2. Turn the filter counterclockwise to unlock it, then lift out.
3. Rinse the filter under warm water, using a toothbrush to dislodge stuck particles.
4. Return the filter and lock it by turning clockwise.
5. Replace the lower spray arm.

Be sure to dump out any standing water in the base before filtering. For severe clogs, soak the filter in white vinegar and water to break up grease before rinsing.

Unblocking a Drain Hose

If your GE dishwasher's drain hose is kinked or clogged, water can't exit properly. Start by detaching the hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain. Inspect for kinks and straighten any tight bends. Use a zip tie to secure the hose if needed.

Check inside the hose as well. Run water through to dislodge any food particles or debris restricting flow. Reattach the hose once clear, ensuring a tight seal and high loop to prevent backflow.

How to Clear a Clogged Air Gap

The air gap is a crucial dishwasher drainage component. Locate the plastic cylinder mounted to the sink or countertop near the dishwasher. Unscrew the cap and use a paper clip to loosen any debris clogging the opening. You can also dissolve buildup with hot vinegar. Replace the cap once the air gap is clear.

Troubleshooting Garbage Disposal Problems

Issues with a garbage disposal attached to the dishwasher drain line must be addressed for proper drainage. Start by running the disposal to check for obstructions. Insert an Allen wrench in the bottom to free any jams.

Test that water flows freely from the disposal into the dishwasher. Fix any leaks in the connections. You may need to tighten mounting bolts, replace the drain pipe seal, or reattach the dishwasher hose.

If the disposal motor is unresponsive, use a multimeter to test for power reaching the unit. Swap in a new garbage disposal if repairs won't restore function.

Adjusting Detergent Use

Adding too much dishwasher detergent leads to excessive sudsing that can prevent proper drainage. Refer to the detergent label for recommended amounts based on water hardness and dish load size. Scrape off food, prewash heavily soiled dishes, and run Hot washes to reduce the suds.

Switching detergent types can help too. Look for low-sudsing formulas marked as "HE" Dishwasher Detergent. Rinsing aids further reduce foaming and improve drying.

When to Call a Repair Technician

If you've worked through the common DIY fixes but your GE dishwasher still fails to drain completely, it's time to bring in a professional:

• Drainage system leaks or part replacements are needed
• The dishwasher drain pump, valves, or hoses require repair
• Electrical issues prevent proper dishwasher function
• There are complex mechanical problems

Technicians have specialized tools and training to fully diagnose issues and make repairs you can't on your own. For major breakdowns or convoluted dishwasher drain problems, professional service is the best option.

Once your GE dishwasher is draining normally again, keep it that way with simple maintenance:

• Clean the filter monthly or after greasy/sandy loads
• Load dishes properly to avoid food debris clogs
• Use recommended detergent amounts to reduce sudsing
• Maintain the garbage disposal and dishwasher air gap
• Periodically inspect hoses for kinks, cracks, and blockages

Catching issues early keeps small clogs from turning into major drainage failures. With attention to detergent use, loading, and regular filter cleaning, your GE dishwasher will keep washing and draining effectively.