Why GE Dishwasher is Not Draining? How To Do It Yourself Detailed Steps 2024

If you discover that your GE dishwasher is not draining effectively, and if your schedule is as busy as that of most people, balancing work, family, and everything else in-between can make it tough to keep your home tidy consistently. The luxury of owning a dishwasher has made it easier than ever to maintain a clean living area. The main thing to keep in mind is to make sure you run it from time to time!

Unfortunately, many people don’t realize how important it is to keep the dishwasher clean and well-maintained until it starts producing subpar results. If your machine is not draining properly or leaving behind large amounts of residual water, from Appliance Help Hub check out these tips for improving its performance.

How Do you Fix a GE dishwasher is not Draining Issue?

When troubleshooting a dishwasher , the initial step is checking for blockages in the drain system, which can be caused by food, grime, or debris in the pipe or filter. A clog in the drainage components may lead to issues like reduced water flow or a malfunctioning water pump, hindering the completion of the dishwasher’s cycle. A blocked pipe can impede water flow, while a faulty pump might result in a buildup of residual water requiring manual drainage. For assistance in troubleshooting a GE dishwasher not draining properly, refer to our concise guide below.

GE dishwasher diagram as a reference to help in fixing a GE dishwasher is not draining
Ge Dishwasher Diagram

Check Drain Hose


GE Dishwasher is Not Draining, drain hose location

If your GE dishwasher is not draining properly, one of the first things you should check is the drain hose. If this hose is clogged or blocked in any way, it could prevent water from flowing out of the dishwasher and cause it to back up clogs in the drain hose are usually caused by food particles or grease build-up.

To clean your dishwasher’s drain hose:

  • Start by disconnecting it from the garbage disposal (if applicable).
  • Use pliers to remove any debris that might be blocking the hose.
  • Once the hose is clear, reattach it to the garbage disposal.
  • Run a cycle to see if that fixes the issue.

Install New Draining Hoses


ge dishwasher is not draining, drain hose on the table

It could be due to old or damaged draining hoses. Draining hoses are responsible for transporting water from the dishwasher to the city sewer or city stormwater line. If these hoses are old or damaged, they may not be able to transport the water effectively.

To check if your draining hoses are damaged:

  • Turn off the water, open the dishwasher, and remove the hoses from their connection points.
  • Visually inspect the hoses for damage such as tears, kinks, and breaks.

If your hoses are damaged, you can purchase new ones from Amazon or your local hardware store.

New draining hoses will work better than old ones and will improve the overall performance of the dishwasher.

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GE dishwasher is not draining drain hose
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GE WD24X10062 Genuine OEM Drain Hose for GE Dishwashers

  • The GE Appliances WD24X10062 Drain Hose is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications
  • Replacement GE Appliances Dishwasher Drain Hose carries drain water from the dishwasher to the drain
  • GE Appliances WD24X10062 Dishwasher Drain Hose is a flexible corrugated plastic tube with fittings on each end
  • High-quality GE Appliances OEM WD24X10062 Dishwasher Drain Hose is manufactured with premium materials for durability and exact fit, be sure to follow instructions in the owner’s manual when installing this part
  • Repair your appliance with confidence when you choose Genuine GE Appliances Parts & Accessories

Check for Blockages


ge dishwasher is not draining, dishwasher contains a lot of unorganized dishes

The basket inside the machine that collects the dishes and cutlery can also become blocked with food and grime over time. it could also be due to an obstruction in the drain line. To check for this:

  • Remove the hose from the connection from the dishwasher to the sink. Before you do this, be sure to turn off the water supply to the dishwasher. 
  • Once the hose is disconnected, you can visually inspect the line for anything that may be blocking the flow of water. If you see a clog, you can use a small wire or snare to remove it. Be careful when doing this and use caution not to scratch the inside of the line or damage the hose. 
  • You may also want to consider hiring a plumbing professional to check the line from the connection to the city sewer or city stormwater line. This is especially important if you are experiencing issues with the dishwasher in addition to another plumbing issue. For example, if you have a backed-up city sewer line due to tree roots, a clogged dishwasher drain line is not going to help the situation.

You can use or replace your basket with a helpful one, check below!

GE dishwasher is not draining

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GE WD28X10128 Genuine OEM Silverware Basket (Grey) for GE Dishwashers

  • The GE Appliances WD28X10128 Silverware Basket is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications
  • Replacement GE Appliances Dishwasher Silverware Basket in the color of Grey
  • GE Appliances WD28X10128 Dishwasher Silverware Basket holds small utensils such as forks and knives during the dishwashing cycle
  • High-quality GE Appliances OEM WD28X10128 Dishwasher Silverware Basket is manufactured with premium materials for durability and exact fit, be sure to follow instructions in the owners manual when installing this part
  • Repair your appliance with confidence when you choose Genuine GE Appliances Parts & Accessories

Clear Garbage Disposal Jam


GE dishwasher is not draining

Another common reason for GE dishwasher is not draining properly is a jammed garbage disposal. If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, it’s important to make sure that the disposal is clear of any obstructions. It’s possible that something is blocking the flow of water.

To check if this is the case:

  • Turn off the power to the disposal
  • Remove any objects that might be causing a blockage.
  • Turn on the power and run some water through the disposal to see if it’s clear.

If your dishwasher still isn’t draining after checking the drain hose and garbage disposal, there could be an issue with the dishwasher pump. This pump is responsible for moving water out of the dishwasher during the draining cycle. If it’s not working properly, it could cause your dishwasher to back up or not drain at all.


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GE Dishwasher is Not Draining cleaning garbage disposal
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Glisten Garbage Disposer Cleaner, Odor Eliminator with Foaming Action, Removes Build-up and Deep Cleans, Lemon Scent, 4 Uses

  • Powerful: Foaming garbage disposal cleaner and deodorizer with bleach-alternative formula deep cleans garbage disposal and pipes.
  • Removes Hidden Bacteria: Food disposal cleaner consists of biodegradable packets that scrub sidewalls, blades, and under the splashguard to remove grunge and hidden bacteria.
  • Freshens: With an added boost from Plink, the garbage disposal, sink, and kitchen are left with a lemon fresh scent after use.
  • Performance: Maintain a smooth running disposer, prevent build-up and prevent odors to extend the life of the disposer.
  • Safe and Easy to Use: Made with natural ingredients and safe for all disposers, plumbing, and septic systems. Use this kitchen sink drain cleaner weekly to keep the disposer performing like new.

Drain Pump


GE dishwasher is not draining drain pump

Another potential reason your GE dishwasher not draining properly is an issue with the dishwasher pump. The dishwasher pump is responsible for moving water from the dishwasher tub through the drain hose and into either the sink or garbage disposal.

If your dishwasher has a clogged or damaged drain pump, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.

To check if this is the case:

  • Open the dishwasher and remove the pump cover from underneath the machine. 
  • Visually inspect the pump for any damage or issues. You can also try to turn the pump by hand to see if it is functional.
  • To replace the drain pump, you will need to shut off the power to the dishwasher, disconnect the water hoses, and remove the pump cover. 
  • After replacing the pump, you will need to reconnect the water hoses and put the pump cover back in place. If the pump is faulty, you will need to replace it with a new one. 

A qualified technician can help you select the correct drain pump for your machine. You can also check online to find information about specific models and make/model numbers.

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GE dishwasher is not draining
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Ge WD19X24829 Dishwasher Drain Pump Kit Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part

  • This part is compatible with models including; PDF820SSJ4SS,GDT535PGM0BB,GDF650SMJ4ES,GDF530PSM0SS,
    CDT836P3M4D1,GDT695SBL4TS,GDF640HGM0BB,GDF640HMM0ES,
    and more.
  • This Is A Manufacturer Substitution. Part May Differ In Appearance But Is A Functional Equivalent To Prior Parts Including; Wd19x24394
  • Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (Oem) Part. Compatible Brands: Ge
  • This Drain Pump Kit (Part Number Wd19x24829) Is For Dishwashers
  • The Kit May Include Multiple Parts; Refer To Your Parts Diagram For A Complete List Of Parts Included


Clogged Drain Filter


GE dishwasher is not draining

Another possible reason your GE dishwasher is not draining properly is that the drain filter is clogged. This filter is located near the bottom of the dishwasher and it’s responsible for catching any food or debris that goes down the drain. Also, you should know how to clean ge dishwasher filter it’s a very important thing that will help keep your dishwasher running properly.

To clean the drain filter:

  • Start by removing any large pieces of food or debris that you see.
  • Flush the filter with hot water to remove any smaller particles.

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Ge WD12X21976 Filter Manual Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part

  • This part is compatible with models including; ADT521PGF2BS,GDF510PMD6SA,ADT521PGF0BS,ZDT800SIF5II,
    ZDT800SSF0SS, and many more.
  • This is a manufacturer substitution. Part may differ in appearance but is a functional equivalent to prior parts including; WD12X20549, WD12X20340, WD49X24057
  • Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part. Compatible Brands: Ge
  • Perfect for replacements or repairs!

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Affresh W10282479 Dishwasher Cleaner, 1 Pack

  • Powers away limescale and mineral buildup
  • No.1 Recommended by Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana brands (afresh brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation)
  • Cleans what you can’t see: your machine’s tub, racks, pump and valve, drain and recirculation hoses
  • Cleans inside all dishwasher machine makes and models
  • Use monthly or as needed to maximize machine performance (heavily soiled machines may require extra cleaning cycles)
  • Septic tank safe and U.S. EPA Safer Choice Certified

Clean the Spray Arms and Vent


ge dishwasher is not draining, spray arms and vent

The spray arms inside the machine are responsible for spraying water across the dishes during the wash cycle, but they can also collect food particles and grime over time if they are not cleaned.

It could also be due to clogs or blockages in the spray arms. To clean these,

  •  open the door 
  • remove the lower rack of the dishwasher. Once the rack is removed, you will be able to see the spray arms. 
  • Use a small brush to clean out any clogs or residue that may have formed inside the spray arms. In addition to cleaning the spray arms, you’ll also want to clean the vent. 
  • The vent is a small opening at the top of the door of the dishwasher. You can clean the vent with a small brush or with your fingers. Once the spray arms and vent are clean, you’ll notice an improvement in the amount of water used during each cycle. 
  • This will lead to decreased run times and reduced energy costs.

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GE dishwasher is not draining spray arm
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GE WD22X10091 Dishwasher Spray Arm, Lower Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part

  • This part is compatible with models including; ADT521PGF2BS,GDF510PMD6SA,ADT521PGF0BS,ZDT800SIF5II,
    ZDT800SSF0SS, and many more.
  • Spray arm WD22X10091 rotates and sprays water to clean the dishes inside the dishwasher tub
  • Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part. Compatible Brands: Ge
  • This spray arm (part number WD22X10091) is for dishwashers
  • Wear work gloves to protect your hands during this repair

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GE  Dishwasher is not draining Vent Cover

GE WD24X20586 Dishwasher Vent Cover

  • The GE WD24X20586 is a genuine OEM Vent Cover for Dishwashers
  • This GE Vent Cover fits into and trims the dishwasher vent opening
  • The GE WD24X20586 can be applied to some Dishwashers of the following brands: GE
  • The WD24X20586 is an original GE Vent Cover that is manufactured to exact specifications with high-quality materials
  • Have confidence when making repairs or servicing your appliances with genuine GE parts

Change the Drain Valve


The drain valve is an important part of the dishwasher that allows the water to flow out of the machine and it is responsible for preventing water from flowing back into the dishwasher during the draining cycle.

It is the piece inside the dishwasher that closes when the machine is in use. 

If the valve is faulty, the water will not be able to drain properly. To check it:

  • Remove it from the inside of the dishwasher. You can then visually inspect the valve to determine if there is any damage. If the valve itself is not damaged, you can clean it before replacing it inside the dishwasher. To clean the drain valve, you can use a water-based cleaning agent like vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or lemon juice. Avoid using household cleaners that contain chemicals such as bleach because these can damage the drain valve. 
  • If the valve is damaged, you can replace it with a new one. If you are unsure of how to do this, it is best to contact a professional to avoid damaging the dishwasher further.

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GE WD24X10018 Check Valve Dishwasher

  • The GE Appliances Check Valve Piston is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications
  • GE Appliances Check Valve Piston prevents water in the drain hose from flowing back into the tub
  • GE Appliances WD24X10018 fits inside the check valve body
  • The high-quality GE Appliances Check Valve Piston is also called the Piston & Nut Assembly and is common on GE and Hotpoint Dishwashers
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Air Gap and High Loop


GE Dishwasher is Not Draining
Ge Dishwasher High Loop and Drain hose Diagram

It could be due to clogs or an improper air gap. The air gap is a device that is installed in the drain line to prevent the flow of water during the cleaning process. 

To check if an air gap is installed, turn off the water and open the dishwasher. You will be able to see the air gap at the connection between the dishwasher and the drain line. If there is no air gap installed, you can have one installed.

An experienced plumber may be able to install an air gap for you. You can also purchase an air gap online and install it yourself. The air gap is important to prevent the flow of water during the cleaning cycle, but the dishwasher will not be able to drain properly if the water is unable to flow properly when the machine is in use. This could be due to a clog in the drain line. 

To check for a clog in the drain line, turn off the water, open the dishwasher, and remove the drain line. Visually inspect the line for any clogs and remove any that you find.

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High Drain Loop Bracket (5/8″)

  • Prevents dirty, smelly water from backing up into the dishwasher.
  • Two sizes are available to fit hoses that are 1/2″ or 5/8″ in diameter. Measurement is based on the inside diameter of the hose.
  • This handy accessory holds the drain hose in an inverted U to prevent water backflow.
  • No tools are necessary! Installs in seconds with 3M VHB tape, included.
  • Can be attached by screws (not included) using the predrilled holes.

Clean the Air Gap


GE Dishwasher is Not Draining

To clean the air gap:

  • Start by removing the cap from the top of the air gap.
  • Use a paperclip or other small object to clear any debris that might be blocking the holes on the side of the air gap.
  • Replace the cap and try running your dishwasher again.

Detergent type and amount:


One common reason why dishwashers don’t drain properly is because of the type or amount of detergent being used. If you’re using a powder detergent, make sure to use the correct amount. Too much powder detergent can cause suds to build up in the dishwasher and prevent it from draining properly.

If you’re using a liquid detergent, we recommend using a high-quality brand that’s designed for dishwashers. Using a cheap liquid detergent can cause all sorts of problems, including not draining properly.

If you think the type or amount of detergent you’re using might be causing your dishwasher to not drain, we recommend trying a different type or brand. Sometimes, this is all it takes.

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GE Dishwasher is Not Draining
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Finish – All in 1 – Dishwasher Detergent – Powerball – Dishwashing Tablets – Dish Tabs – Fresh Scent, 94 Count (Pack of 1) – Packaging May Vary

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  • Finish is the worldwide leader in dishwashing and is the recommended brand worldwide by more dishwashing brands than any other brand

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GE Dishwasher is Not Draining
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Affresh W10282479 Dishwasher Cleaner, 1 Pack

  • Powers away limescale and mineral buildup
  • No.1 Recommended by Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana brands (afresh brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation)
  • Cleans what you can’t see: your machine’s tub, racks, pump and valve, drain and recirculation hoses
  • Cleans inside all dishwasher machine makes and models
  • Use monthly or as needed to maximize machine performance (heavily soiled machines may require extra cleaning cycles)
  • Septic tank safe and U.S. EPA Safer Choice Certified

Try a Different Cycle


If the GE dishwasher not draining properly, you can try running a different cycle to see if that helps to clear out any blockages. 

Dishwasher cycles use water in different ways. Some cycles use water to clean the dishes and other cycles use water to flush out clogs in the drain line.

If your machine is leaving behind residual water, try running a cycle like sanitizing or heavy wash. These cycles use a greater amount of water and are more effective at removing stubborn residue from dishes and the drainage line.

You can also try lowering the water level setting on your machine through the settings or programming section. 

If your machine is using too much water, this may cause it to take longer to clean the dishes. This may also cause excess water to be left in the dishwasher after the cycle is complete.


Dry Out the Dishwasher Condensation Collector


If you’ve tried everything and still the GE dishwasher is not draining properly, you may have a buildup of condensation in the machine’s condensation collector. This is the small plastic tub in the top-right corner of the machine that collects any residual water during the drying cycle.

If there is too much water, it will overflow into the tub and may prevent the machine from properly drying. To clean the tub out, open the machine and pour the water out into a bucket, then clean the tub and machine thoroughly.

GE dishwasher not draining at end of cycle

If your GE dishwasher not draining at the end of the cycle, there are a few possible explanations.

First, check the drain hose to make sure it is not clogged. If the hose is clear, then the problem may be with the drain pump. The pump may be dirty or obstructed, preventing it from working properly.

Another possibility is that the float switch is stuck in the “on” position. This switch signals the dishwasher to stop filling when the water reaches a certain level. If the switch is stuck, then the dishwasher will continue to fill with water, even if it is already full.

Finally, the problem could be with the control board. If any of the components on the control board are damaged or faulty, it could cause the dishwasher to fail to drain correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions


Why does my GE dishwasher not drain?

If your GE dishwasher is not draining properly, there are a few potential causes. First, check to make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged. If the hose is clear, then the problem may be with the drain pump. The drain pump helps to remove water from the dishwasher, so if it is not working properly, the water will not be able to drain correctly.

Another potential cause is a blockage in the drainage system. This can be caused by food debris or other foreign objects. If you cannot clear the blockage yourself, you may need to call a professional for help.

Finally, make sure that the dishwasher is level. If it is not, it can prevent water from draining properly. By troubleshooting these potential problems, you should be able to fix your dishwasher and get it draining properly again.

How do I get rid of standing water in my GE dishwasher?

Many dishwashers have a feature that allows water to stand in the bottom of the unit after a wash cycle is completed. This standing water helps to keep the dishwasher seals lubricated, which can extend the life of the dishwasher. In addition, standing water can help to prevent dishes from being chipped or cracked when they are being loaded into the dishwasher.

However, if there is too much water standing in the bottom of your dishwasher, it may be time to clean the unit. Check the owner’s manual for instructions on how to clean your specific model of dishwasher. Once the dishwasher is clean, be sure to run a test cycle to ensure that the standing water problem has been corrected.

How do you force a dishwasher to drain?

Sometimes, a dishwasher can get stuck in a cycle and refuse to drain properly. If this happens, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem.

First, check to see if there is anything blocking the dishwasher’s drain hose.

Next, try running the garbage disposal to clear any debris that may be caught in it. Finally, if all else fails, you can try resetting the dishwasher by turning it off and then back on again.

If none of these solutions work, then you may need to call a repairman to take a look at your dishwasher. However, by following these simple steps, you should be able to get your dishwasher draining properly again in no time.

How do I know if my dishwasher drain hose is clogged?

Many people find themselves with a clogged GE dishwasher at some point. Although it can be tempting to call a professional, there are some things you can do to clear the clog yourself.

First, start by checking the drain for any blockages. If you find one, try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake to dislodge it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to remove the dishwasher’s drain hose and clean it out with a brush.

Once you’ve removed the blockage, run the dishwasher through a cycle with hot water to flush out any remaining debris. With a little patience and effort, you should be able to clear your clogged GE dishwasher without calling a professional.

GE Dishwasher is not Working

If your GE dishwasher isn’t turning on, you’re likely wondering what the problem could be. Is it a fuse? A circuit breaker? Something else entirely? check the No Power to GE Dishwasher troubleshooting guide, we’ll walk you through the most common causes of this issue so that you can get your dishwasher running again in no time!

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.

How To Start Ge Dishwasher?

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about how to start a GE dishwasher. You just do it. But what if you’re not sure how to start your dishwasher? What if something goes wrong and you don’t know how to fix it? Don’t worry – we’re here to help! check out this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of starting a GE dishwasher.

How do you reset a GE dishwasher drain?

To reset a GE dishwasher drain, first turn off the power to the dishwasher. Next, use a plunger to clear any clogs in the drain. Finally, pour a pot of boiling water into the dishwasher and let it run for 10 minutes.

Where is drain pump on GE dishwasher?

The drain pump is typically located on the bottom of the dishwasher.

What do you do if your dishwasher isn’t draining?

If your dishwasher is not draining, there may be a problem with the dishwasher hose or the dishwasher itself. If the dishwasher hose is blocked, you can unblock it by using a plunger. If the dishwasher is broken, you will need to replace it.


Conclusion


A dishwasher is a great appliance that makes cleaning dishes, pots, and cutlery much easier. However, it’s important to keep up with the maintenance so the machine can continue to perform at its best.

We recommend checking the drain pump, drain solenoid, and drain check valve to see if any of these are the cause of the problem. If none of these things seem to be the issue, we recommend trying a different type or brand of detergent. If all else fails, we recommend calling a professional for help.

If you keep your machine clean and well-maintained, it will last for years.

We hope this guide was helpful in troubleshooting for Ge dishwasher. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help. Thanks for reading!

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By Steve

👋 Hey there! I'm Steve. 29 years old, a technician that came from an Electronic and IT background. I love problem-solving and enjoy tinkering with electronics