Home Garden

How to Replace the Flood Switch on a GE Dishwasher

The flood switch (also called the float switch) on your GE dishwasher controls when the water cuts off during the wash and rinse cycles. It is protected by a plastic tower to keep it from becoming damaged from debris or objects inside the dishwasher. Replacing the flood switch on a GE dishwasher is well within the means of the average DIYer and can be accomplished over the course of a morning or afternoon.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the electricity for the GE dishwasher by unplugging it from the socket. If you can't reach the socket, or if the dishwasher is wired into the home circuit, cut the power at the main circuit breaker.

    • 2

      Open the dishwasher door. Pull out the lower dishwasher rack.

    • 3

      Locate the dishwasher flood switch tower. It's a cylindrical object that sticks up an inch or two from the dishwasher cabinet floor. It's typically in the inside corner of the cabinet.

    • 4

      Remove the GE dishwasher flood switch cap by grasping the outside and turning counterclockwise. Pull the cap up and off the flood switch.

    • 5

      Examine the flood switch. Some GE dishwasher models have a small screw or clip holding the flood switch in place. Undo the screw or clip before pulling the flood switch out of the socket. If you don't see a clip or screw, remove the flood switch by turning it counterclockwise until it snaps out of place.

    • 6

      Insert the new flood switch into the socket. Secure as needed, with the clip, screw or by turning clockwise.

    • 7

      Replace the flood switch cap.

    • 8

      Restore power to the dishwasher. Run a short cycle to check that the new flood switch is operating properly. Reseat it if it malfunctions.