My GE Profile Dishwasher Soap Automatic Dispenser Is Not Working

Dishwasher Loading

• One of the most common causes of a dispenser that does not open or work during the wash cycle is obstruction due to improper loading. When putting dishes in the dishwasher, place delicate and smaller items on the upper rack and secure pieces on the tines. Load tall or big items in the bottom rack along the sides and rear but do not place the objects in the front where the dishes might block the dispenser from opening or working.

Detergent Problems

• Another fairly basic reason the soap dispenser may not work is old, damp or clumped detergent that sticks in the dispenser and does not dissolve completely or even causes the detergent lid to stick. Store your detergent in a cool, dry place and replace the detergent at least every eight months. If there is residue inside the dispenser, wipe it out with a clean, damp cloth and then dry well. Check your household water heater to make sure that the water is 120 degrees F or more, as this will help dissolve the dishwasher detergent.

Faulty Dispenser

• If the dispenser is stuck closed, restart the GE dishwasher if the previous cycle was stopped in order to allow the dispenser to open as programmed. If the cycle is complete and the dispenser is still closed, push down on the white lever under the bottom edge of the dispenser to force the lid to open. If the dispenser will not stay closed, close the dishwasher door and select a normal cycle. Let the cycle run for 10 seconds and then push “Start” to let the dishwasher reset and drain out any water.

Service

• Once you have resolved issues with loading and detergent use and tried to manually fix the dispenser, if the cup still does not work, service might be necessary. The dispenser trip mechanism may need to be repaired or replaced.