GE dishwasher may cease operation after filling with water due to several potential causes, such as a malfunctioning or stuck motor, filter blockage, a defective pump impeller, a blocked drain hose, or problems related to the drive belt. Additionally, it’s worth noting that a malfunctioning drain solenoid could also lead to operational failures.
Based on my experience with the GE Profile Dishwasher, I can affirm that these issues often do not require the expertise of a professional technician to resolve.
Why Does My GE Dishwasher Fill With Water Then Stop?
1. There’s a Problem with the Impeller
To ensure a GE dishwasher initiates, operates, and successfully completes a wash cycle, all of its components must function correctly. If any part of the unit malfunctions, the dishwasher won’t start, and dishwashing becomes impossible.
For instance, within a GE dishwasher, the impeller plays a crucial role. Some models even incorporate two impellers: one for water inlet and circulation, and the other for aiding in drainage.
Regrettably, a defective impeller can lead to a dishwasher failure because the integrated sensor detects an issue with one of the components.
You can identify a problem with the impeller if you observe a lack of water flow in your GE dishwasher. This usually indicates an obstruction preventing the impeller from functioning correctly.
Another possibility is that the impeller blades are damaged, which can disrupt the water flow in your GE dishwasher.
I suggest inspecting the impeller blades on the motor for any resistance. You can use one or two screwdrivers to gently move the impeller until it spins freely. This action should not only allow the dishwasher to fill with water but also ensure it operates correctly once more.
2. Your GE Dishwasher Can’t Run If Filter is Blocked
If your GE dishwasher filled with water but then abruptly stopped, there’s a strong likelihood that the filter may have become obstructed.
Here’s the important information:
GE dishwashers feature grinders designed to efficiently break down food residue, foreign objects like small sticks, and labels from cups and jars. However, these blades are not completely immune to blockages and can become jammed with unwanted items, preventing the unit from starting.
To resolve this issue, you can inspect the filter for potential blockages and clean it to dislodge any trapped particles.
The filter in the GE dishwasher is typically located in the loading area of the appliance. To access it, remove the dish rack. If you notice particles stuck in the filter, rinse it with water to remove them. Afterwards, test the dishwasher to see if it can run a wash cycle after filling it with water.
In certain situations, the filter may be malfunctioning, and if that’s the case, it’s advisable to obtain a replacement dishwasher filter that is compatible with your GE appliance for a seamless replacement process.
Pros and Cons of Ge Dishwasher
Pros
- Includes steam options and bottle jets
- Offers Dry Boost setting
- Top-mounted control panel
Cons
- Dry Boost leads to three hour cycle time
Differences Between GE Dishwashers and Bosch Dishwashers
GE Dishwashers
While GE dishwashers are not particularly loud, they may have noise levels in the range of 46-60 decibels (dB), with some quieter models available.
Bosch Dishwashers
Bosch is renowned for its quiet dishwashers, with many models featuring noise levels below 44 dB. Some Bosch models are among the quietest dishwashers on the market.
Alternative to GE Dishwasher
Amana Dishwashers
- Offers affordable options with straightforward features.
- Soil Sense cycle optimizes water and energy usage.
- Ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly dishwasher.
3. Problem with the Water Inlet Valve
A malfunctioning water inlet valve in a GE dishwasher can lead to both potential kitchen floor flooding and operational difficulties, hindering the appliance from initiating and completing a full wash cycle.
If you observe that the dishwasher is filling with water even when it’s not connected to a power source, it strongly indicates a possible issue with the water inlet valve, which may need to be replaced.
Substituting the existing valve with a GE-compatible water inlet valve can be an effective solution to address and alleviate this problem.
4. The Dishwasher’s Solenoid Stopped Working
A significant number of GE dishwashers incorporate drain solenoids that serve to activate the drain valves and initiate a drainage cycle.
If your GE dishwasher has filled with water and then abruptly ceased functioning entirely, it is highly probable that an issue with the solenoid is to blame.
On a hardware level, the solenoid may have become non-functional due to a burnt plunger or a physical breakage.
In such a scenario, the only viable solution is to replace the impeller.
5. There is a problem with the Dishwasher Drive Belt
In older GE dishwashers, the pumps are equipped with drive belts that wrap around the pulley. The primary role of this belt is to maintain the connection between the motor and the pump, ensuring the system operates smoothly at all times.
However, here’s the issue:
The belt is constructed from rubber, which means it is susceptible to loosening or tearing over time, especially due to continuous drainage. If this occurs, your GE dishwasher will be unable to drain, and without proper drainage, it won’t be able to complete a full wash cycle.
Given that the drive belt naturally wears out through regular use, the solution is to obtain a replacement belt. After replacing the worn-out drive belt with a new one, test the dishwasher to determine if the issue is resolved.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining the proper functioning of your GE dishwasher is essential for hassle-free dishwashing. This overview has highlighted various common issues that can disrupt its operation, from motor problems to filter blockages, pump impeller faults, drain hose clogs, drive belt wear, and drain solenoid issues.
Regular maintenance and timely troubleshooting can often resolve these problems without the need for professional assistance.
Whether it’s cleaning filters, checking impellers, or replacing worn drive belts, addressing these issues promptly ensures your GE dishwasher continues to deliver reliable performance, efficiently completing its wash cycles and keeping your dishes sparkling clean.