How To Fix a GE Dishwasher That Wonʼt Start

Having a dishwasher that wonʼt start can be frustrating, especially when you have a sink full of dirty dishes waiting to be washed. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue and get your dishwasher back up and running. In this article, we will guide you through the process of troubleshooting and fixing a GE dishwasher that wonʼt start. Whether itʼs a simple reset or a more complex electrical problem, we will help you diagnose and fix the issue step by step.

Contents:

• Resetting the Dishwasher
• Checking the Power Supply
• Inspecting the Door Latch and Switch
• Examining the Control Board and Panel
• Checking the Overfill Float Switch
• Testing the Thermal Fuse
• Frequently Asked Questions

Resetting the Dishwasher

If your GE dishwasher wonʼt start, the first step is to try resetting it. A simple reset can often fix minor glitches and get your dishwasher running again. Follow these steps to reset your GE dishwasher:

1. Locate the dishwasherʼs electrical panel or circuit breaker.
2. Turn off the power to the dishwasher by either switching off the circuit breaker or unplugging it from the electrical outlet.
3. Leave it disconnected for a few minutes.
4. Restore power by turning the circuit breaker back on or plugging the dishwasher back into the outlet.
5. Try starting the dishwasher again to see if the reset worked.

Checking the Power Supply

If the reset didn’t resolve the issue, the next step is to check the power supply to ensure the dishwasher is receiving electricity. Here are a few things you can do to verify the power supply:

1. Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the electrical outlet.
2. Use a multimeter to check if the outlet is providing power. If it’s not, try plugging the dishwasher into a different outlet to rule out any issues with the electrical supply.
3. If the outlet is supplying power, but the dishwasher still wonʼt start, inspect the power cord for any damages or frayed wires. If you find any, replace the power cord.

Inspecting the Door Latch and Switch

A faulty door latch or switch can prevent the dishwasher from starting. To inspect the door latch and switch:

1. Open and close the dishwasher door several times to check if it latches properly. If the door doesn’t close firmly or is difficult to close, the latch may require adjustment or replacement.
2. Inspect the door latch for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, replace the latch.
3. Test the door switch using a multimeter to ensure it’s functioning correctly. A defective door switch will need to be replaced.

Examining the Control Board and Panel

The control board and panel are responsible for sending power to various parts of the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the control board or panel, it can prevent the dishwasher from starting. Follow these steps to examine the control board and panel:

1. Locate the control panel by removing the screws that secure it to the door.
2. Inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt-out capacitors or loose wires. If you find any issues, replace the control board.
3. Check the control panel buttons for any physical damage or stuck buttons. Clean the panel as necessary and ensure the buttons are working properly.

Checking the Overfill Float Switch

The overfill float switch is designed to detect when the dishwasher has too much water. If this switch is faulty or stuck, it can prevent the dishwasher from starting. Follow these steps to check the overfill float switch:

1. Locate the overfill float switch, which is usually found at the bottom of the dishwasher near the front.
2. Gently lift the float assembly to see if it moves freely. If it’s stuck in the up position, clean out any debris that may be blocking it.
3. If the float assembly is damaged or doesn’t move freely, replace the overfill float switch.

Testing the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety feature that protects the dishwasher from overheating. If the thermal fuse is blown, the dishwasher wonʼt start. To test the thermal fuse:

1. Locate the thermal fuse, which is typically located on the control board or near the heating element.
2. Disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse.
3. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, the thermal fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
4. Install a new thermal fuse and reconnect the wires.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why wonʼt my GE dishwasher start after a power outage?

If your GE dishwasher wonʼt start after a power outage, it’s possible that the control board has been damaged. Try resetting the dishwasher to see if that resolves the issue. If not, you may need to replace the control board.

2. Why does my GE dishwasher keep tripping the circuit breaker?

If your GE dishwasher keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it may be drawing too much power. Check the dishwasherʼs power cord for any damages and ensure it’s plugged into a dedicated circuit. If the issue persists, there may be a problem with the dishwasher’s motor or heating element.

3. How do I clean the filter in my GE dishwasher?

To clean the filter in your GE dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Remove the bottom rack of the dishwasher.
2. Locate the filter assembly at the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Remove the filter by turning it counterclockwise.
4. Rinse the filter under warm water to remove any debris.
5. Reinstall the filter by turning it clockwise.

4. Is it worth repairing a GE dishwasher that wonʼt start?

Whether it’s worth repairing a GE dishwasher that wonʼt start depends on the age and condition of the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is relatively new and the repair cost is reasonable, it may be worth fixing. However, if the dishwasher is old and requires extensive repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new one.

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can diagnose and fix many common issues that cause a GE dishwasher not to start. However, if you’re not comfortable performing the repairs yourself or if the problem persists, it’s recommended to contact a professional appliance repair technician to ensure safe and proper repair. With a little patience and some basic troubleshooting, you can have your GE dishwasher up and running again in no time.