My Triton Dishwasher Is Stuck on Rinse

Motor and Pump

• During the rinse cycle, a motor pumps clean water up from the bottom of the dishwasher and out through the appliance's spray arms. If the motor or pump malfunctions, the dishwasher may stop rinsing the dishes -- and it may not move on to the next cycle, becoming "stuck" on the rinse cycle. If the motor or pump is indeed the problem, however, the dishwasher will malfunction on the wash cycle. In this case, you'll need a professional to repair or replace the motor or pump.

Timer and Controllers

• A timer controls the movements of a dishwasher through its cycles. Although its unusual for a timer to malfunction, it can happen; this can cause your dishwasher to get stuck on the rinse cycle. The controller, which allows you to select wash styles and cycles, may also get stuck on the rinse cycle. Like timer issues, this is uncommon. It is more common in knob-style controllers than digital displays, however, and some GE Triton dishwashers do have knobs. If either items is broken, you'll need to have a professional replace it.

Thermostat and Heating Issues

• Dishwashers have thermostats that monitor the temperature of the water. If you have your rinse cycle set to hot -- especially if it is set to soak the dishes in hot water before they are rinsed -- the thermostat will wait until the water is at a predetermined level before triggering the dishwasher to move to the next cycle. If the thermostat is not working properly, it will not trigger the dishwasher to complete the rinse cycle. In addition, if the heating element is broken, the water will never get hot enough to trigger the thermostat to tell the dishwasher to move to the next cycle. With either issue, you should let a professional diagnose and it.

Draining Issues

• Many times when a dishwasher gets stuck on the rinsing cycle, it is because there is an issue with water draining from the bottom of the unit. It's not so much the actual rinse cycle as it is the finishing of the cycle that is the problem. A GE dishwasher contains a drain valve controlled by a drain solenoid or switch. The timer signals the switch when it is time to end the rinse cycle, and the solenoid triggers the drain valve to open. If the solenoid malfunctions, the valve can't open and the dishwasher won't drain. This may cause it to become stuck on the rinse cycle. A mechanical problem with the valve itself may be the problem. Finally, a clog in the drain line may be the issue and, in fact, is the most common reason a dishwasher won't drain, according to the Repair Clinic website. If the dishwasher is stuck on the rinse cycle and has more than a little bit of standing water in the bottom, it is likely a problem with the drain solenoid, drain valve or drain line. A professional can make a firm diagnosis and repair the issue.