“GE Dishwasher Not Draining” refers to a common issue where a General Electric (GE) dishwasher fails to effectively drain water from the interior after completing a washing cycle. Instead of draining away, the water accumulates at the bottom of the dishwasher, leading to wet and unclean dishes.
This problem can be caused by various factors, such as clogs in the drainage system, malfunctioning components, or blockages in the discharge pathways. Proper troubleshooting and diagnosis are necessary to identify the specific cause of the issue and implement the appropriate solutions for restoring proper drainage functionality to the dishwasher.
Ge Nautilus/Quiet Power 2 Dishwasher Not Draining
If your GE Nautilus dishwasher or GE Quiet Power 2 dishwasher is not draining properly, it can be frustrating and affect the cleanliness of your dishes. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:
1. Check for Blockages:
- The most common reason for drainage problems in a dishwasher is a blockage. Start by inspecting the dishwasher’s filter, drain basket, and any visible parts of the drain pump for debris or food particles. Remove any obstructions you find.
2. Ensure Proper Installation:
- Check that the dishwasher drain hose is correctly installed and that it has a high loop. The high loop prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher.
3. Inspect the Air Gap (if applicable):
- Some dishwashers have an air gap, a small device mounted on the sink or countertop. Ensure that it is not clogged with debris, as this can hinder proper drainage.
4. Examine the Garbage Disposal (if connected):
- If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal unit, make sure the disposal’s knockout plug (if still present) has been removed. Also, check that the disposal is not clogged, as this can affect drainage.
5. Check the Drain Pump:
- The drain pump is responsible for expelling water from the dishwasher. If it’s malfunctioning, the dishwasher won’t drain properly. Inspect the pump for any visible damage or signs of wear. If necessary, consult the dishwasher’s manual for instructions on how to access and replace the pump.
6. Clean the Drain Hose:
- Disconnect the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the sink or disposal. Inspect the hose for clogs or kinks. Use a long, flexible brush or pipe cleaner to clean the inside of the hose. Reattach it securely.
7. Test the Drain Cycle:
- After performing these checks and potential fixes, run a short cycle to see if the dishwasher drains correctly. If the problem persists, you may need to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.
8. Consult the Manual:
- If you have the user manual for your specific GE dishwasher model, it can provide troubleshooting tips and guidance for addressing drainage issues.
Understanding the Problem:

When your GE dishwasher fails to drain, it can lead to standing water at the bottom of the tub. This not only affects the cleanliness of your dishes but also indicates an underlying issue within the dishwasher’s drainage system. Several factors can contribute to this problem, ranging from clogs and obstructions to faulty components. GE Quiet Power 2 dishwasher that’s not draining get you down. A GE dishwasher not draining at the end of the cycle can be a common issue and may result in standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher.
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the issue on your own.
Common Causes and Solutions:
1. Blocked Drain Pump:
- Problem: The drain pump’s impeller can become clogged with debris or obstructed, preventing proper water drainage.
- Solution: Check the drain pump for any blockages. If clogged, clean or replace the pump as needed.
2. Garbage Disposer Connection Issues:
- Problem: If your dishwasher is connected to a new garbage disposer, a knockout plug might be obstructing the drain hose.
- Solution: Remove the knockout plug from the disposer’s drain tube. Ensure that the disposer is clear of debris to allow proper drainage.
3. Obstructed Drain Hose:

- Problem: Accumulated debris or foreign objects in the drain hose can hinder water flow and cause drainage problems.
- Solution: Inspect and clean the drain hose, removing any obstructions. Check both ends of the hose for blockages.
4. Faulty Drain Solenoid Valve:

- Problem: Some dishwasher models have a drain solenoid valve that can fail to open, preventing water from draining.
- Solution: Test the drain solenoid valve for continuity using a multimeter. Replace the valve if it’s not functioning properly.
5. Check Valve Blockage:
- Problem: The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher after draining. A stuck valve can cause drainage issues.
- Solution: Check the check valve for any obstructions or debris. Ensure it moves freely to allow proper drainage.
Solutions in Action:
- Disconnect the dishwasher’s electrical supply and access the drain pump.
- Test the pump’s continuity using a multimeter. If failed, replace the pump.
- Remove the knockout plug from the disposer’s drain tube if applicable.
- Clear any debris from the disposer to ensure proper drainage.
- Inspect the drain hose for obstructions, removing it from both ends if necessary.
- Test the continuity of the drain solenoid valve using a multimeter. Replace if needed.
- Verify the condition of the check valve to prevent water backflow.
Conclusion:
A GE dishwasher not draining can be frustrating, but armed with the knowledge of common causes and solutions, you’re equipped to tackle the issue head-on. By identifying and addressing the root cause of the problem, you can restore your dishwasher’s proper functionality and enjoy clean, dry dishes once again. Remember that a little maintenance and troubleshooting can go a long way in keeping your dishwasher working efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I test the continuity of a drain pump?
Use a multimeter and touch the probes to the pump’s terminals. No continuity indicates a failed pump motor.
What’s the purpose of the check valve in a dishwasher?
The check valve prevents water from returning to the dishwasher after being pumped out, aiding in proper drainage.
Can a clogged garbage disposer affect dishwasher drainage?
Yes, a clogged disposer can hinder water flow and lead to drainage issues in your dishwasher.
How often should I inspect and clean my dishwasher’s components?
Regular maintenance, including cleaning filters and inspecting hoses, can prevent drainage problems. Aim for every few months.
Key Takeaways and Recap:
Dealing with a GE dishwasher not draining? Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
- Check the drain pump for continuity and replace if necessary.
- Ensure the garbage disposer connection is clear and free from debris.
- Inspect the drain hose for obstructions and clean as needed.
- Test the drain solenoid valve’s continuity and replace if faulty.
- Verify the check valve’s condition to prevent water backflow.
Key Points Summary:
- Troubleshoot and fix GE dishwasher drainage issues step-by-step.
- Test drain pump continuity using a multimeter and replace if needed.
- Ensure the garbage disposer connection is clear of debris.
- Inspect and clear any obstructions in the drain hose.
- Test the drain solenoid valve’s continuity and replace if faulty.
- Verify the check valve’s condition to prevent water backflow.
- Perform regular maintenance to prevent future drainage problems.