GE DishwasherError Codes, Explained

GE Appliances is unusually straightforward about this: it says most dishwasher codes are there to help a technician, and a few point to something you can fix yourself. Below is GE’s own table, the codes you can act on first. GE also notes that not every code is on every model, and that cutting power to the dishwasher for a minute or two sometimes clears a code. Codes differ between models and generations, so check what your own manual says against the model number on the plate — here is where to find it.

Codes you can often sort out

C1 / C2 — pumping out took too long

C1: the pump-out during drain ran too long. C2: the whole pump-out cycle ran too long; GE says press Reset to stop the beep.

• Clean the air gap, if you have one (the little cap beside the faucet).
• Check the drain hose isn’t kinked, and run the garbage disposer to clear it.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

C4 — filled twice after a power failure

GE links C4 to a stuck float switch or a clogged drain or sump.

• Press Start, then Cancel/Reset.
• Tap the float cover — the plastic cup at the front left of the tub floor — to free the float.
• Clear any debris from the sump at the back of the tub.

If the code comes back after those checks, the machine needs a technician.

C5 — pump-out too short

Make sure the water supply is on, tap the float cover, and try the same cycle again.

C6 — water too cold

GE asks for incoming water of at least 120 °F (about 49 °C).

• Run the kitchen tap until it’s hot before starting.
• Avoid showers and laundry while it runs.

C8 — detergent cup blocked

Something is stopping the detergent cup opening. Move it, close and latch the door, and wait for the cup to open.

PF — power failure

There was a power failure. Choose the cycle and press Start.

H2O — low water

Check the inlet hose isn’t kinked. GE says that if H2O only appears on the 1-Hour Wash, service is needed, but the other cycles can still be used.

Number + H (for example 1H)

Not an error: the dishwasher is in Delay Start.

Codes that need a technician

C3 — won’t drain

Turn the breaker off for about 30 seconds and reset. If it persists, GE says contact service.

C7 — temperature sensor circuit

The same reset; if it persists, it needs service.

FTD or F56 — failure to drain

Check the drain hose, air gap and disposer first, as for C1.

LEAK DETECTED or 999

On models with leak detection, the cycle is cancelled and GE says contact service. On other models, GE says 999 means the control needs a reset.

PrS — pressure sensor

GE says this is most likely a wiring harness or sensor issue, and recommends service.

Where this comes from

Every meaning above is the manufacturer’s own, from its support pages:

• GE Appliances — Dishwasher: Error, Fault or Function Codes

A code tells you where the machine gave up, not always why. If the simple checks don’t clear it, that’s what a diagnosis is for.