How to Fix a Water Jam in a GE Dishwasher

Research and follow the fix for the water jam diagnosis that is automatically detected by the dishwasher. In some advanced models, General Electric programs the electronic display to show error codes about specific problems. For example, if the display shows "C3," that error means the dishwasher will not drain; the instructions are to cut power to the dishwasher for 30 seconds, and then reset the cycle. "C4" can mean the drain or sump is clogged and you must manually clear the obstruction. Refer to the owner's manual that came with your dishwasher for specific error codes and solutions. Alternatively, download the PDF version from the GE Appliances website (see Resources below).

Clear non-degradable objects in the sump or waste area at the bottom of the GE dishwasher. Cancel the current wash cycle, if necessary. Open the dishwasher door and wait for hot water to cool off. Consider wearing latex gloves. Use your fingers to carefully feel through the pool of water at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove any large pieces of debris that are blocking drainage. Detergent is designed to break down food particles, but larger food particles might remain intact, blocking water drainage. Also, check for paper scraps and small plastic lids that may have fallen to the bottom of the dishwasher.

Eliminate excessive detergent suds that may prevent proper water drainage. Press the "Cancel" button or open the dishwasher's door to stop the current wash cycle. Allow the suds and bubbles to naturally burst and dissipate, which may take several minutes to hours; speed up the process by sprinkling powdered coffee creamer over the bubbles. Initiate manual drainage in mechanical models by unlatching the door and turning the dial to the drain cycle; close the door and wait for draining to complete. Drain electronic models, at the end of a cycle, by closing the door, pausing for 10 seconds, and then pressing the "Start/Reset" button; in the middle of a cycle, close the door and press "Start" to initiate drainage.

Troubleshoot dishwasher drainage in the kitchen sink area. Open the cabinet doors that run the length of the kitchen counter between the dishwasher and the sink. Look for tiny water droplets or puddles in the bottom of the cabinet, which could be a sign of wear and tear on the drain hose. Replace the drain hose, which is technically called a "corrugated perforated drainage pipe." If the hose is sagging downward, like the letter "V," straighten it out to allow a steady stream of drain water to pass through. Also, turn on the garbage disposal in the sink to clear out any obstructions that are blocking the flow of drain water from the dishwasher.

Access the dishwasher's filter to look for clogs. In GE dishwashers without extending water towers, unscrew the spray arm by lifting it up and rotating 90 degrees, counterclockwise. Remove the arm, and then inspect the filter assembly for debris. If it is not clean, there may be a more serious repair problem and GE recommends calling a technician for service. Refer to your owner's manual for specific filter removal instructions.