Ge Dishwasher: not washing

Possible Causes

Clogged spray arms or wash arms

How to Identify: Visual inspection shows debris blocking holes or arms not spinning freely; dishes remain dry/uncleaned.

Part: Spray arms (upper/lower/center)

Clogged or dirty filters and sump area

How to Identify: Food debris in filter/sump visible, low water flow, poor cleaning even when cycle completes.

Part: Filter assembly and sump

Faulty circulation pump or pump motor assembly

How to Identify: No water spray noise, motor humming or silent after fill, dishes remain unwashed.

Part: Circulation pump and motor

Incorrect water temperature or supply issues

How to Identify: Dishwasher not connected to hot water, water temperature below ~120°F leading to poor cleaning.

Part: Water inlet system

Faulty control board or electronics failing to drive wash cycle

How to Identify: Dishwasher appears to run but fails to actuate pump; symptoms inconsistent; electrical failures present in diagnostics.

Part: Main control board/electronics

DIY Solutions

Clean spray arms

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver (if needed), toothpick or small brush, warm water

1. Remove upper and lower spray arms per manual instructions.
2. Clear all debris from spray arm holes using toothpick or small brush.
3. Rinse arms under warm water and reinstall ensuring free rotation.

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing interior.

Clean filters and sump area

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: gloves, soft brush, towel

1. Remove bottom rack to access filter and sump.
2. Extract filter assembly and rinse under warm water clearing debris.
3. Wipe sump area of any food particles and reassemble filter.
4. Run a short cycle to test improvement.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before reaching into sump.

Ensure hot water supply

Easy 5-10 minutes

1. Verify dishwasher water line is connected to hot water supply (not cold).
2. Run hot water at kitchen sink prior to starting cycle to ensure hot water enters dishwasher.
3. Adjust water heater to at least 120°F if needed.

⚠️ Safety First: Be cautious of hot water to avoid burns.

Professional Repairs

Replace circulation pump and motor assembly

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300

Replace control board/electronics

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher does not spray water at all even after cleaning spray arms and filters

Unusual noises from pump/motor or electrical faults

Error codes indicating electronic or pump failure

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean filters and spray arms: Clogs and poor washing performance
  Frequency: monthly
• Run hot wash cycle regularly: Mineral and grease buildup
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my GE Dishwasher not washing?

Common causes include clogged spray arms, dirty filters, and circulation pump issues.

How do I fix GE Dishwasher not washing myself?

Clean spray arms and filters, and ensure hot water supply before running the cycle.

How much does it cost to fix not washing?

Professional repairs for not washing range from $120 to $400 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not washing?

If DIY solutions fail or if the issue seems complex, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

• GE Dishwasher Not Washing Properly Official

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Dishwasher not using water (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Dishwasher started working again after being off

   Success rate: 50.0%

2. Technician confirmed the dishwasher was broken

   Success rate: 50.0%

Community Discussions

no water is coming out of the dishwasher

The technician confirmed the dishwasher was broken.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

stopped using water

Dishwasher started working again after being off.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair