At a Glance:
Indications Your GE Dishwasher Needs Fixing
Dishwasher Issues and How To Fix Them
3 Dishwasher Replacement Ideas
Having trouble with your GE dishwasher not starting? You're not alone! Many people face this issue at one point or another. Dishwashers, like all machines, can act up due to various reasons. Whether it's a simple power issue, a problem with the door latch, or something more technical with the control panel, it can be frustrating when your trusty dishwasher suddenly refuses to start.
But don't worry! In this article, we discuss the most common reasons why your GE dishwasher might not be starting and provide you with possible solutions to get it up and running again. If it still doesn’t fix the issue, we also provide you with excellent, budget-friendly options for a potential replacement.
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If you're dealing with dishwasher problems, consider our GE options at Urner's.
GE Dishwasher OptionsIndications Your GE Dishwasher Needs Fixing
If you feel your appliance isn’t working properly or your GE dishwasher won’t turn on, there are some clear signs that can indicate it needs a repair:
- If your dishes come out still dirty or spotted after a cycle.
- A GE dishwasher not starting, even with the power on.
- Hearing unusual noises, louder than a typical hum.
- Leaking water around the dishwasher.
- The door doesn’t latch properly.
It’s essential to address these signs promptly to ensure the dishwasher optimally cleans your dishes for the entirety of its lifespan.
Dishwasher Issues and How To Fix Them
Here are some common issues your appliance might experience, including your GE dishwasher not starting, and how to fix them:
Dishes Aren’t Coming Out Clean
One of the most common complaints with dishwashers is when dishes aren't thoroughly cleaned at the end of a cycle. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Incorrect loading: Overloading or blocking the spray arms can prevent proper cleaning.
- Detergent issues: Using old or too much/little detergent can affect cleaning efficiency.
- Clogged spray arms: Over time, food particles can block the holes in the spray arms.
How To Fix
There are possible ways to fix this issue yourself, including:
- Rearrange Dishes: Ensure dishes aren’t overcrowded and aren't obstructing the rotating spray arms. Place larger items towards the back and sides.
- Detergent Check: Use the recommended amount of a good quality detergent. If your detergent is old, consider replacing it.
- Clean Spray Arms: Remove the spray arms according to the user manual and clean the holes. A toothpick or small brush can help clear out any debris.
Dishwasher Doesn’t Drain Properly
After a wash cycle, a little water at the bottom is normal. However, excessive pooling indicates drainage issues. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Clogged drain or filter: Food remnants and debris can block the dishwasher's drain or filter.
- Faulty drain pump: The pump responsible for expelling the used water might be malfunctioning.
- Blocked kitchen sink: If the dishwasher shares a drain with the sink, a sink clog can back up the dishwasher.
How To Fix
There are possible ways to fix this issue yourself, including:
- Check and Clean the Filter: Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom. Refer to the user manual, remove the filter, and clean it under running water.
- Inspect the Drain Hose: Ensure there aren’t any kinks or blockages. If it's clogged, you might need to clean or replace it.
- Check the Sink Drain: Ensure your sink is draining well. If not, you may need to unclog it, which could resolve the dishwasher's drainage issue.
Dishwasher Door Doesn’t Latch
If the dishwasher door doesn't close or latch properly, the dishwasher won't start, as it needs a secure seal for operation. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Latch failure: The latch might be faulty or misaligned.
- Warped door: Over time, the dishwasher door might warp, preventing a proper seal.
- Obstructions: An improperly loaded dish or a utensil might be preventing the door from closing.
How To Fix
There are possible ways to fix this issue yourself, including:
- Reposition Dishes: Ensure that no dishes are sticking out or obstructing the door.
- Inspect the Latch: Check if the latch is misaligned or broken. If it looks damaged, you might need to replace it.
- Check the Door: If the door seems bent or warped, it might require adjustment or replacement. In some cases, this can be a complex procedure, and consulting a professional might be best.
Unusual Noises
Dishwashers usually hum, but if you hear loud or strange noises, it’s a sign that something might be amiss. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Loose spray arm: The arm might be hitting the dishes or the interior of the dishwasher.
- Malfunctioning pump: The pump could be making grinding or buzzing sounds if it's defective.
- Foreign objects: Sometimes, a stray utensil or small item can fall and create noise.
How To Fix
There are possible ways to fix this issue yourself, including:
- Inspect Spray Arms: Ensure they rotate freely without hitting anything. Adjust your dishes if needed and check the arms for damage.
- Check for Foreign Objects: Look at the bottom of the dishwasher for any fallen items. Remove any foreign objects that shouldn't be there.
- Examine the Pump: If the noise seems to come from the pump, it might be malfunctioning and could need replacement.
GE Dishwasher Won’t Start
A particularly frustrating issue is when you load your dishwasher, set the cycle, and close the door, but nothing happens. A dishwasher that won’t turn on can be caused by various factors, from simple oversights to actual hardware malfunctions. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Power Issues: The dishwasher might not be plugged in, the circuit breaker could have tripped, or there might be a blown fuse.
- Door Latch: As mentioned earlier, if the door doesn’t latch correctly, the dishwasher won’t start as a safety measure.
- Control Panel Malfunction: Over time, the dishwasher's electronic control panel can become faulty.
- Timer or Selector Switch: These components control the washing cycle. If they're defective, the dishwasher won't start.
How To Fix
There are possible ways to fix this issue yourself, including:
- Check Power Sources: Ensure the dishwasher is plugged in. Check your home's circuit breaker or fuse box. If the dishwasher’s circuit has tripped or a fuse has blown, reset the breaker or replace the fuse.
- Inspect the Door Latch: As with the issue where the door doesn't latch, check the latch for any visible damage and ensure it engages properly. If it seems misaligned or broken, consider replacing it.
- Reset Control Panel: Sometimes, a brief power glitch can cause the control panel to freeze. Try turning off the power to the dishwasher at the breaker for about a minute and then restore it to reset the system.
- Examine Timer or Selector Switch: These might require professional testing with specialized tools. If you suspect these components are the cause, it may be time to contact a professional or consider replacing them.
While these solutions address common dishwasher problems, it's essential to remember that troubleshooting should always be done with safety in mind. Turn off and unplug the dishwasher before working on it. If a problem persists or you're unsure about a repair, it's always wise to consult the user manual or contact a professional to avoid further complications or damage.
If you’re looking for an expert appliance specialist in the Bakersfield area, look no further than Urner’s and Urner’s Mattress. We have the technicians and expertise to find the problem with your appliance and, if possible, complete the necessary repairs. Take a look and see how our appliance repair services can help you.
3 Dishwasher Replacement Ideas
Here are three excellent dishwashers you can use to replace your GE dishwasher that’s not starting:
GE 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Model #: GDT550PYRFS
GE 24in Fingerprint Resistant Built In Dishwasher
This GE dishwasher is a great replacement option for your current model because of its expert features. That includes its steam option, which loosens grime and stains before the cycle begins. That also includes the washers AutoSense cycle, which detects soil levels and the amount of dishes. From there, it can pick the best settings for the load.
That can help you save on water and electricity, lowering your utility bills. Lastly, with its adjustable upper rack, allowing you to fit more in one load, and its one-hour wash cycle, this dishwasher will add a lot of efficiency to your kitchen cleanup.
Here’s what someone else had to say about this dishwasher:
Such an upgrade
“GE appliances have always seemed so reliable and this is no different. It was priced well and works great. I LOVE our new dishwasher. I also like the hidden buttons. It just looks sleek.”
GE 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
Model #: GDP665SYNFS-OB
GE 24in Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
This sleek stainless steel dishwasher is an excellent budget-friendly option, that still packs-a-punch in the cleanliness of your dishes. That’s greatly due to its features, like the four dedicated bottle jets in the upper rack, which get water deep into hard-to-reach areas of taller items, like vases, bottles, and glasses.
Like the previous model, it also includes a sensor wash function, which helps you pick the right water and heat levels for each load. Lastly, with its delay start function and Dry Boost system, you can run cycles even when you’re asleep and know they’ll be ready to put away come morning.
GE 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Model #: GDT650SYVFS
GE 24in Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
This GE dishwasher comes with an extra-large internal capacity, holding up to 16 place settings at one time. That means you can wash more at once, improving the efficiency of your kitchen cleanup.
And thanks to its other features, like the active flood protect, which prevents leaks and overflows, the steam option, which sanitizes your dishware, and its four bottle wash jets, you can rest assured that this appliance will easily meet the needs of your kitchen.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about GE dishwashers:
How Do You Force Reset a GE Dishwasher?
To force reset a GE dishwasher, first, unplug the dishwasher from the power source or turn off the circuit breaker. Wait for about 1 minute. Plug it back in or turn the circuit breaker back on. Press the "Start/Reset" button for about 3 seconds. The dishwasher should reset. If the issue persists, consult the user manual or an appliance technician.
What Is the Most Common Problem with GE Dishwashers?
The most common problem with GE dishwashers is that they won't start or run. This could be due to various reasons including a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty door latch, or problems with the control panel. Other common issues include not draining properly, dishes not coming out clean, and unusual noises. It's essential to identify the specific cause and address it appropriately.
How Do You Reset the Control Board on a GE Dishwasher?
To reset the control board on a GE dishwasher, press the "Start/Reset" button for about 3 seconds. If this doesn't work, try unplugging the dishwasher or turning off its circuit breaker for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then restore the power. This action can effectively reset the control board. If problems continue, the control board may need professional diagnosis or replacement.
Why Trust Urner's and Urner's Mattress?
Urner’s started on the back of a bicycle - yup! A bicycle! David E. Urner, a local high school teacher, who spent his summer months selling Wear-Ever cookware off the back of a bicycle (think 100+ degrees). David teamed up with another local teacher, Errol P. Janes to create “a new type of store – one that would cater exclusively to providing an easier way of living for the women of Kern County”, and on September 19, 1919, Home Appliance Store was opened to the public. The store boasted a rather impressive selection of “modern” appliances, including a washing machine, a freezer, a gas range, an automatic dishwasher, and an assortment of small appliances. Since then, Urner’s has expanded selections to appliances, furniture, mattresses and cabinetry!
For nearly one century, the Urner family and Urner’s business have both been an integral part of Bakersfield and Kern County, with contributions to the community (Better Business Bureau, Sister City Projects, Bakersfield Symphony), charity (Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude’s Dream Home, House of Hope) and education (CSU Bakersfield, Ray Dezember Leadership Development Center. Explore the website, visit the store, or join us socially. We’re all about home, all about fun, and all about you… and we’re ready to make you a part of the Urner’s family today.
Shop GE Dishwashers at Urner’s
Stop by any of the 6 Urner’s and Urner’s Mattress locations in Bakersfield, CA to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop GE dishwashers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find your next dishwasher — whether you call us at 661-396-8400, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.