What To Know
- An air gap is a small device installed on the kitchen sink to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
- The filter in the dishwasher traps food particles and other debris to prevent them from clogging the drain.
- If you have tried all the above solutions and the dishwasher still won’t drain, it is advisable to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.
A dishwasher is a modern-day marvel that makes our lives easier. However, when it malfunctions, particularly when it fails to drain, it can be a major inconvenience. If you’re facing this issue with your GE dishwasher, don’t despair. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the potential reasons why your GE dishwasher won’t drain and provide practical solutions to help you restore its functionality.
Clogged Drain Hose
The drain hose, responsible for carrying wastewater away from the dishwasher, can become clogged over time due to food particles, grease, or other debris. To check for a clogged drain hose:
- Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source.
- Locate the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher.
- Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and the drain pipe.
- Inspect the drain hose for visible clogs.
- If you find any clogs, use a drain snake or a wet/dry vacuum to clear them.
Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump is a crucial component that pumps wastewater out of the dishwasher. If the drain pump is faulty, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a faulty drain pump:
- Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source.
- Locate the drain pump at the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Inspect the drain pump for any visible damage or leaks.
- Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the drain pump. If there is no continuity, the drain pump needs to be replaced.
Blocked Air Gap
An air gap is a small device installed on the kitchen sink to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the air gap becomes blocked, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a blocked air gap:
- Locate the air gap on the kitchen sink.
- Remove the air gap cover.
- Inspect the air gap for any visible clogs.
- If you find any clogs, clean them using a toothpick or a small brush.
Kinked or Crushed Drain Hose
A kinked or crushed drain hose can restrict the flow of wastewater from the dishwasher. To check for a kinked or crushed drain hose:
- Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source.
- Locate the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher.
- Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or crushes.
- If you find any kinks or crushes, straighten the drain hose or replace it if necessary.
Faulty Door Latch
The door latch ensures that the dishwasher door is securely closed during the wash cycle. If the door latch is faulty, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a faulty door latch:
- Open the dishwasher door.
- Inspect the door latch for any visible damage or wear.
- If you find any damage or wear, replace the door latch.
Dirty Filter
The filter in the dishwasher traps food particles and other debris to prevent them from clogging the drain. Over time, the filter can become dirty and restrict the flow of wastewater. To clean the filter:
- Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly under running water.
- Reinstall the filter in the dishwasher.
Reset the Dishwasher
Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve minor issues with the dishwasher. To reset the dishwasher:
- Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source.
- Wait for 30 seconds.
- Reconnect the dishwasher to the power source.
- Start a new wash cycle.
Wrapping Up
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue of why your GE dishwasher won‘t drain. If you have tried all the above solutions and the dishwasher still won’t drain, it is advisable to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the most common reason why a GE dishwasher won‘t drain?
A: The most common reason is a clogged drain hose due to food particles, grease, or debris.
Q: How can I prevent my dishwasher from clogging?
A: Regularly clean the dishwasher filter and avoid overloading the dishwasher with dishes.
Q: Can I replace the drain pump on my own?
A: It is not recommended to replace the drain pump on your own unless you have experience in appliance repair. Contact a qualified technician for assistance.
Q: How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?
A: The dishwasher filter should be cleaned every month or two to prevent clogging.
Q: Why is my dishwasher making a humming noise when it drains?
A: A humming noise during draining can indicate a faulty drain pump or a clogged drain hose.
