Is your GE dishwasher failing to clean your dishes properly, leaving you with dirty and greasy plates? You’re not alone. Many homeowners experience this frustrating issue with their dishwashers, and various factors can cause it.
The good news is that there are several easy ways to fix your GE dishwasher and get it working properly again. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the most common causes of a GE dishwasher not cleaning your dishes and provide practical instructions on resolving each problem.
Stay with this blog post to the end. You’ll be able to troubleshoot common GE dishwasher problems and resolve any cleaning problems you may have experienced, saving you time and ensuring that your dishes come out sparkling clean every time.
Why is your GE Dishwasher Not Cleaning?
Is your GE dishwasher not cleaning your dishes properly? If it isn’t cleaning your dishes properly, there are several possible reasons why this may happen. Here are 10 of the most common causes of a GE dishwasher not cleaning:
1. Dirty Interior
Over time, grease, food debris, mineral deposits, and soap scum can accumulate inside your GE dishwasher.
If the buildup is minor, you can try to run a vinegar cycle by pouring 3 cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwashing machine and running it through a complete cycle.
For stubborn grime, you can use dishwasher cleaning tips to clean the interior of your dishwasher.
2. Dirty Filter
Older GE dishwashers (made before 2010) may have a self-cleaning filter that grinds down food particles until they are small enough to be washed away. Newer, quieter models typically come with a removable filter that needs to be cleaned periodically.
The filter is usually located below the racks and topped with a twist-off cap. To clean the dirty filter, remove it from the dishwasher (using the owner’s manual instructions) and thoroughly rinse it under hot water.
If you find stuck-on gunk on the filter, soak it in hot, soapy water for several minutes. After that, gently clean it with a soft brush before rinsing.
3. Clogged Spray Arm
The spray arms in your GE dishwasher spin below or above the racks and shoot the water used to wash the dirty dishes. As a result, the jets (or tiny holes) in spray arms can become clogged, which reduces water pressure.
In some GE dishwasher models, the arm can snap off easily for cleaning, while in others, you may have to remove a screw to take it out. After removing it, scrub it using a soft brush and dish soap. You can also use a toothpick to remove clogs in the holes and rinse it well under hot water.
4. Broken Soap Dispenser
If your GE dishwasher’s soap dispenser isn’t working properly, detergent may not reach your dirty dishes or be released at the right time during the wash cycle.
A common problem is a jammed spring in the dispenser door. In this case, try using a small brush to clean the soap dispenser and springs.
Mixing white vinegar and hot water will help dissolve grease and food debris. Also, if the spring or dispenser door is broken, you must replace it.
Lastly, inspect the gasket around the dispenser, and replace it if you notice or find cracks. You can rub a small dab of petroleum jelly around the gasket from time to time because it can extend its life.
5. Low Water Temperature
Most GE dishwasher cycles require a minimum water temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit to work properly.
Some modern GE models come with a heat-boosting mechanism, but if yours doesn’t have one, it should be fine. All you have to do is to ensure that you have manually set your water heater to 120 degrees.
Setting the dishwasher’s temperature any higher than 120 degrees can cause scalding. Finally, run the kitchen faucet for 30 to 60 seconds before running the dishwasher. This ensures that hot water enters the machine at the beginning.
6. Detergent and Related Issues
Improper or low-quality detergent can lead to spotty dishes. Additionally, using too much detergent can also cause you problems.
Always ensure to use the correct type of detergent and the appropriate or right amount. Using a final rinse agent should improve results too.
If you have hard water in your home, consider installing a water softener to help reduce mineral deposit damage.
Lastly, make sure to load the dishwasher properly.
7. Water Volume or Pressure Issues
Water pressure issues are likely to affect appliances like GE dishwashers.
Hence, if the water pressure from your faucets is lower than normal or the water pressure seems to be changing, you may have to hire a professional to help you resolve the water pressure problem.
Contact a trusted plumbing service for a diagnostic inspection.
8. Failing Inlet valve
The inlet valve allows water to flow into the dishwasher. If the inlet valve in your GE dishwasher starts malfunctioning, it can result in low water pressure and, in some cases, no water, which often makes the dishwasher fail to clean your dishes.
A faulty inlet valve can also cause a hammering sound from the unit as it runs. This more complex repair may require a technician to replace the valve.
9. Defective Wash motor
The wash motor is responsible for circulating water and ensuring it reaches all dishwasher areas.
If the wash motor is defective or not working properly, it can result in low water pressure or no water at all, which can cause the dishwasher to fail to clean your dishes.
10. Clogged Water inlet
The water inlet is responsible for allowing water to enter the dishwasher. If it becomes clogged with debris, it can cause the dishwasher not to clean dishes properly. Cleaning the water inlet can help solve the problem.
How to Fix a GE Dishwasher Not Cleaning
If your GE dishwasher is not cleaning properly, here are some simple DIY steps you can take to try to fix the problem (i.e., keep your dishes clean):
1. Check the Spray arms
If the dishwasher spray arms are clogged or blocked, they won’t be able to distribute water evenly throughout the dishwasher. If that happens, the result is poor cleaning performance.
To fix this issue, remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly. Use a toothbrush or a small wire to dislodge any food particles or debris blocking the spray holes. Then, reattach the spray arms and run the dishwasher to see if the cleaning performance has improved.
2. Clean the Dishwasher filter.
As you continue using your GE dishwasher, the filter can become clogged with food particles and debris, affecting the dishwasher’s cleaning performance.
To clean the dishwasher filter, start by removing it from the dishwasher before rinsing it under running water. If the filter is filthy, use a soft brush to remove stubborn debris. Once the filter is clean, reinsert it into the dishwasher and run a cycle to see if the cleaning performance has improved.
3. Check the Water inlet valve.
If the dishwashing appliance is not receiving enough water, it will not be able to clean dishes properly. The water inlet valve is responsible for introducing water into the dishwasher, so if it’s faulty or clogged, it can affect the performance of your dishwasher.
Turn off the dishwasher’s power and water supply to check the inlet valve. Then, remove the valve and clean it with a soft brush and running water. You’ll have to replace the valve if it is damaged or faulty.
4. Use the Right detergent.
Using the wrong detergent or too much detergent can also affect the cleaning performance of your dishwasher. Ensure you’re using the detergent recommended by GE for your dishwasher model, and don’t use too much.
5. Check the Dishwasher’s temperature.
If your GE dishwasher’s water temperature is too low, it may not be able to clean your dishes correctly. Every appliance has a manual, so check your dishwasher manual to determine your model’s recommended water temperature.
Now, if the current temperature of the water is lower than what’s recommended by your manufacturer, you may have to adjust the thermostat or water heater of your appliance.
6. Check the Dishwasher’s spray arm holes.
If the spray arm holes get clogged or blocked, the water will not be distributed evenly throughout the dishwasher. Use a toothpick or a small wire to dislodge any food debris or particles blocking the spray holes. You’ll have to replace the spray arm if damaged or broken.
7. Load Dishes properly.
Properly loading the dishwasher can also affect its cleaning performance. You can improve your dishwasher cleaning abilities by loading your dishes according to the manufacturer’s instructions (i.e., you’re not overcrowding the dishwasher).
Overcrowding can prevent water from reaching all the dishes, resulting in poor cleaning performance.
8. Check the Dishwasher’s pump.
The pump is saddled with the responsibility of moving water through the dishwasher, so if it’s faulty or clogged, it can affect the dishwasher’s cleaning performance.
Turn off the dishwasher’s power and water supply to check the pump. Then, remove the pump and clean it with a soft brush and running water.
If you find out that the pump is dirty and faulty or damaged, or just damaged, you’ll have to buy a replacement from a local store or online and fix it yourself or let a professional help.
By following all the above steps, you should be able to fix most of the common issues with GE dishwashers not cleaning properly. If you still face difficulties solving the problem after trying these steps, call a professional for help.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
