Inspect The Check Ball And Check Valve
If youre still looking for the cause of your GE dishwasher not draining, then the next components to check are the check ball and check valve. Both of these components help to stop the water from draining back into the dishwasher once it has drained.
To check the check ball and check valve:
Ge Dishwasher Not Draining Heres Why
GE makes high-quality home appliances, including ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers. But even high-end appliances can sometimes break down and need to be fixed. One of the biggest problems people have with GE dishwashers is sometimes they stop draining properly.
If your GE dishwasher is not draining, then it could be one of many things causing it. To help you find the cause and fix it, we have investigated and written up all of the main causes in this article. Simply start at the top and make your way through each potential cause, and hopefully, your GE dishwasher will be draining properly again.
This article covers the following models:
DDW550B-45
SD4920X66BB
Ge Dishwasher Detergent Cup Not Working
The detergent cup in your dishwasher will be one of two types. The first type is circular and rotates open and closed this is the turn-to-close cup. The second looks more like a rectangle and will clip open and closed.
If your dishwasher cup has trouble locking into place, make sure that the dishwasher dial is entirely in the off position. If its left on drying, for example, it might prevent the cup from locking shut.
On the other hand, first check how your dishes are loaded if the cup doesnt open during the cycle. Make sure that nothing sticks out and prevents the cup from opening properly. You also want to check that you havent allowed any detergent to harden inside the cup. If you use detergent that was left in the cup or that started to get hard in the box, it could make it difficult for the cup to open. Similarly, make sure that any tablets you use fit in the cup without having to force it closed.
You also want to watch the placement of dishes in the dishwasher. If you block the spraying arm, you might have some residual detergent left in the cup.
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Dishwasher Wont Drain 8 Steps To Fix It
One of the most common problems reported to plumbers by homeowners is when a dishwasher wont drain. While it can be scary to open the dishwasher door and see standing water at the bottom, it isnt always a plumbing emergency. In fact, you may be able to correct the problem yourself without professional help. AHS offers Plumbing Warranties and protection plans.
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How To Drain A Clogged Ge Dishwasher
If your dishwasher is not draining, you may need to drain excess water manually. This will allow you to inspect the filter and sump better to determine the cause. To drain the dishwasher manually, follow the steps below.
Step 1: Place towels under the dishwasher to soak any water spills.
Step 2: Place one bowl either side of the dishwasher door to collect any large leaks as you open the dishwasher door.
Step 3: Unlatch the door, but do not open it fully.
Step 4: Slowly open the door fully to make sure no water spills onto the floor.
Step 5: Use a cup to empty most of the water down the sink.
Step 6: Soak up the last of the water with a towel.
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Defective Drain Check Valve
As we briefly discussed in the beginning, the drain can become clogged with debris. When checking this area, be sure to also check the drain valve.
Over time, this part can become clogged, or even stop working all together.
First, youll want to clean the valve if there is debris present. If youve already done this, but the unit still wont actuate, youll need to replace the valve.
Again, these parts are not repairable, so youll need to buy a new one and replace.
How To Test The Dishwasher Drain Pump
To test the drain pump, you must first locate it in your dishwasher. The dishwasher drain pump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher and can be accessed by removing the bottom access panel.
Remove the drain hose connected to the drain pump and put your finger inside the drain outlet.
If you are able to feel and rotate the pump freely, there is no problem with the pump.
Similarly, if the impeller is not moving, you will need to clean the drain pump impeller or replace it if it is broken.
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Air Gap And High Loop
If your dishwasher drain hose does not connect to a garbage disposal, it may connect to an air gap. If you do not have an air gap, the drain hose may be positioned in a high loop underneath the sink. Both the air gap and high loop are designed to stop wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher during the draining cycle. If the air gap is clogged or the drain hose is not in a high loop position, then water backing up and not draining may be causing the drainage issue.
The air gap is usually a fitting mounted to the sink or kitchen cabinet. The air gap works by sending air into the hose, which eliminates the negative pressure that can cause the discharged wastewater to return to the dishwasher. The air gap can be inspected and cleaned of debris by removing the cover and cap.
The high loop method works by looping the drain hose up so that it is secured just under the sink. Check the dishwashers manual for the correct specifications for your dishwashers drain hose.
Check The Garbage Disposal Connection
If youve established that your GE dishwasher is connected to the garbage disposal, you will need to check the drain plug.
Make sure that the drain plug is removed, which will allow the dishwasher to remove the drain water. Remember not to move the plug if the dishwasher isnt connected to the garbage disposal.
In case the drain water still remains in the dishwasher after youve removed the plug, check if the drain hose is properly attached.
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Cause # : Blocked Sink Drain
A blocked sink drain can be the reason behind the dishwasher not draining properly. It often happens that homeowners keep on checking their dishwasher while the real culprit is a blockage in the sink drain.
Solution: Use environment-safe draining cleaning liquids to remove the blockages in your drain. If the problem persists, call a licensed plumber to inspect the situation.
When Theres Standing Water In The Dishwasher
When you have a problem with the dishwasher not draining, you may have standing water in the bottom of it. If you open your dishwasher and find a puddle, try running it again. When a dishwasher gets interrupted for some reason, it may not finish its cycle. Restarting it may solve the problem.
If there is still water standing in the dishwasher after the second cycle, youll need to take a closer look. Before you begin work on the dishwasher, cut the power to it off at the circuit breaker box.
To see whats going on inside the dishwasher, youll need to remove the water. Start by covering the floor near the dishwasher with towels. Set a bucket nearby. After youve scooped out all you can, dry out the rest with towels.
Another way to remove the water from the bottom of the dishwasher is to use a wet vac to suction it all out. Once you have figured out how to drain a dishwasher that’s not working, you can focus on what might be causing the problem.
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Too Much Dishwasher Detergent
Adding too much detergent to each wash load can create excess suds that interfere with draining. When this happens, you may notice dirty residue and water from a GE dishwasher not draining at end of cycle.
Whether you have hard or soft water can dictate how much detergent to use. The degree to which your dishes are soiled also influences detergent amounts. Consult your user manual for GEs detergent recommendations based on these factors.
Cause # : Incomplete Wash Cycle
Your GE dishwasher may not complete a cycle randomly. It can cause draining problems.
Solution: Check why your dishwasher is not completing the wash cycle properly. It can happen due to improper loading, overloading, selecting the wrong cycle, pre-rinsing your dishes, and door problems. The best way to get rid of an incomplete washing cycle is to reset your machine. You can reset your GE dishwasher by holding the start/stop button for 3-5 seconds.
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What Causes Ge Dishwasher Leaking From Bottom Of Door
However, GE dishwashers have been known to leak water from the bottom of the door. This can be a serious problem, as water damage can be costly to repair and can lead to mold growth.
There is an article in, which we walked you through what could be causing your GE dishwasher leaking from bottom of door in a step-by-step guide on how to find and replace the components that could be the problem.
Cause # : Blocked/kinked Drain Hose
Another commonly reposted reason behind GE dishwasher not draining is a blocked or kinked drain hose. The drain hose on your dishwasher connects the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal.
Solution: Follow the steps below to check the drain hose in your dishwasher
- Power off your dishwasher before performing any maintenance. If you turn off the circuit from your homes electric control panel, it will turn off other lights and appliances on that circuit.
- Inspect the drain line by opening the cabinet adjacent to your dishwasher for any kinks.
- If you notice any kinks, try straightening them gently with your hands. If you cant do it and feel that the pipe may break, unscrew the dishwasher from the counter and pull it out.
- Remove the drain pipe from the dishwasher by unscrewing the clamp holding it.
- Now remove the kinks and flush the pipe. You can also use a straightened wire hanger to remove any blockages in the pipe. If the pipe is damaged beyond repair, youll need to replace it.
- Attach the pipe back and secure the dishwasher back in its place.
- Turn on the power supply and give your dishwasher a test run.
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Ensure Youre Using The Right Type & Amount Of Detergent
For the best wash, your dishwasher needs the right type of detergent. Having hard or soft water can affect the type and amount of detergent you should use, as well. When the dishwasher water wont drain correctly, you may be using a detergent or soap that creates too many suds. To find the correct type of detergent and rinse agents for your dishwasher, consult the user manual for your GE dishwasher.
How To Test The Solenoid Valve
If your GE dishwasher is not draining correctly, it may be an issue with the solenoid, the timer, or the electrical wires connected to it. You can check these yourself with only a few essential tools.
Read through your users manual to determine the location of your solenoid valve. Once you have found the solenoid valve, check it for any corroded or loose wires. You will be looking for discolored, broken, or frayed wires.
Wires that look at all suspects should be replaced. Corroded wires might not be causing your current problem, but if they are showing wear, they will cause a problem down the road, which you can avoid with preventative maintenance.
If everything looks good, remove the solenoid and use an ohmmeter to check for electrical continuity. A solenoid in good working order will have a reading of approximately 40 ohms any reading other than this will mean you need to replace the solenoid.
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Turn On The Garbage Disposal
Try turning on the garbage disposal. Built-in dishwashers are usually designed to drain via the garbage disposal. If your disposal still has leftover food inside, turn it on to clear the passage.
If the disposal is making a loud noise when you turn it on, it may be clogged. Try drain cleaner to remove garbage buildup or mineral deposits. If that doesn’t work, you may need to troubleshoot the garbage disposal clog.
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 pumps motor malfunctions, the impeller cant 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.
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Check The Drain Line Leak:
If you have a stainless steel drain line, you may need to. This is a pretty frequent issue with older homes that have copper plumbing.
Even if your home was built with PEX or plastic plumbing, its still a good idea to replace the drain line if possible.
To replace it:
- Remove the access panel from the dishwashers bottom.
- Then, unscrew the two screws holding the plastic retaining ring in place.
- Remove the ring and check the drain line for leaks.
If there is a leak, use a solution of baking soda and water and a toothbrush to clean it.
Be sure to get into all the cracks and crevices. Let the dishwasher dry, and then reinstall the retaining ring. Its possible that youll need to replace the drainpipe as well.
Troubleshoot Your Ge Dishwasher
GE dishwashers are known for their longevity and quality. But even these highly regarded dishwashers can develop issues that might lead you to look for ways to fix your appliance.
As with any appliance that gets used regularly, you might experience some challenges with your GE dishwasher as parts get worn out or break down and need repair or replacement. Fortunately, many dishwasher appliance-repair strategies and troubleshooting tips are DIY, so you can take care of them yourself. Rather than let your dirty dishes pile up, see if these solutions might work for your washer.
This article walks you through common issues you might experience with your GE dishwasher and how you can resolve them.
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Too Much Detergent Being Used
Sometimes using too much detergent can also reduce the effectiveness of the drain pump, leaving dirty residue or residual water in the dishwashers tub. Make sure you are following the GE detergent recommendations for your particular dishwasher model.
The hardness of the water may also affect how much detergent is required. If you have hard water, you will need more detergent. Your water supplier should be able to tell you if the local water supply is hard or soft.
How A Dishwasher Drains
The dishwasher is connected to a drain hose that runs water into the pipes under or into your sink. Sometimes the plumbing connections in your sink begin to deteriorate and need to be replaced, or there may be excess debris clogging the bottom of your unit. When you have a problem with a dishwasher not draining, youll see water and even bits of food at the bottom of it.
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How To Diagnose And Fix A Ge Dishwasher Not Draining
Diagnosing a dishwasher not draining may seem like a daunting task, but it doesnt have to be. When your dishwasher stops draining, it could mean that there is something blocking the way. The most common causes of a clogged drain are food and cleaning products. Once youve figured out whats causing the problem, you can go about finding the best solution. Here are some tips for fixing a GE Dishwasher not draining.
Cause # : Dirty Dishwasher
Sometimes everything will be working perfectly alright, but your dishwasher may not still drain properlythe reason: a dirty dishwasher.
Solution: Cleaning your dishwasher monthly with vinegar and baking soda is best to ensure that it performs optimally. Follow the steps below for cleaning your GE dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda.
- Empty your dishwasher and place 1-2 cups of white distilled vinegar at the top rack. Run your dishwasher on hot settings.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the cup holding vinegar and sprinkle one cup of baking soda at the bottom of your dishwasher.
- Program your dishwasher to a hot cycle.
- Now use a flexible wire to clean the showerheads on spray arms.
- Do not add vinegar and baking soda together in your dishwasher.
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