Puddles of water and dirty dishes at the end of a wash cycle are common signs of dishwasher draining issues. What can you do if your dishwasher doesn’t drain properly? Check the filter for clogs, removing and rinsing it to dispose of blockages that restrict water flow. Troubleshoot more reasons for a GE dishwasher not draining and how to solve the problem. 

Diagnosing a GE Dishwasher Not Draining

In some cases, simple maintenance can fix a GE dishwasher not draining. In other instances, a DIY or professional repair can resolve the issue. We’ll list the most common reasons for draining problems to determine the right solution.

#1. GE Dishwasher Filter is Full

A dishwasher filter screens out larger food particles to prevent them from clogging the drain pump. A GE dishwasher not draining may have a filter that’s clogged with these particles, restricting water flow. Our dishwasher loading tips suggest removing larger particles from dishes before loading the dishwasher. However, regular cleanings are the best way to avoid clogs and draining problems.

Follow these steps to clean a full GE dishwasher filter:

1. Remove the bottom rack.
2. Twist the Ultra Fine Filter counterclockwise and lift up.
3. Separate the Ultra Fine and Fine Filter components. 
4. Wash each separately with a sponge and warm soapy water.
5. Replace the Ultra Fine Filter by twisting clockwise. Line up the Fine Filter arrows with those on the Fine filter before positioning in place.

#2. 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 GE’s detergent recommendations based on these factors.

#3. Drain Hose is Blocked or Kinked

A dishwasher’s drain hose connects the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal to flush used water during a wash cycle. If the hose is kinked or blocked by debris, it can restrict the flow of water, and you’ll notice the dishwasher has standing water after cycle ends. While an experienced DIYer can address kinks and blockages, a professional can best resolve these issues.

Follow these general steps to remove drain hose clogs:

1. Turn the dishwasher off at the circuit breaker and unscrew it from the counter to pull it forward.
2. Turn off the water supply valve.
3. Unscrew the drain hose clamp at the sink drain or disposal and dishwasher and remove the hose.
4. Gently straighten any kinks.
5. Flush the hose to remove blockages.
6. Replace the hose and screw in the hose clamps at the sink drain or disposal and dishwasher.
7. Turn on the water supply valve and secure the dishwasher in place before restoring power.

If the hose is cracked or a blockage can’t be removed, it needs to be replaced.

#4. The Air Gap is Clogged

An air gap prevents water from sink drain clogs from backing up into the dishwasher. However, the air gap itself can become clogged with debris over time and requires regular cleaning. If your home has an air gap, clogs can be why the dishwasher doesn’t drain properly.

Here’s how to clear air gap clogs:

1. Remove the air gap cover.
2. Clear any debris with your hand or a paper towel.
3. Make sure there are no visible clogs in the air gap hose before replacing the cover.

#5. Garbage Disposal Problems

Sometimes garbage disposal problems are responsible for a GE dishwasher not draining. A garbage disposal that’s newly installed and connected to the dishwasher may still have a drain plug, restricting water flow. Disposal clogs can also cause dishwasher draining problems.

Clogs are often located where the disposal fitting meets the dishwasher drain hose, requiring that you disconnect the hose to remove any clogs. A professional can assess the disposal for clogs and make sure it was installed correctly.

Whether your dishwasher won’t fill with water or won’t drain properly, Tiger Mechanical can help.