How to Clean Underneath the Screen in the Bottom of a GE Profile Dishwasher

Troubleshooting

• If your dishwasher has been malfunctioning, you may want to troubleshoot the appliance to determine the exact cause. Always unplug the unit before taking it apart or inspecting inside the dishwasher. When the dishwasher water backs up into the main base of the unit, begins to leak or does not drain properly, check all of the drains and hosing first. Make sure there are no kinks in the hosing and nothing is blocking the main drain. Pull out the screen that filters heavy particles.

Preparation

• After the wash cycle is completed on the dishwasher, empty the contents and pull out the lower rack out. You should be able to see the screen below the spray arm at the base of the unit. Take off the cap assembly that is on top of the filter. Set the cap aside for cleaning. Pull the screen out and check it for food, hair, sludge or pieces of plastic. If there is a back up of water and food particles, remove the chunks completely from the clogged drain and screen.

Cleaning

• Removing food and rust buildup from the screen helps your dishwasher continue to perform correctly. Gather basic cleaning supplies, including a wire brush, aluminum scouring pad, powdered beach cleaner and rubber gloves. At the sink, lightly rinse off the screen. Fill the sink halfway with hot water and add 1/2 cup of powdered bleach to the water. Dip your brush in the water before scrubbing the screen down. Repeat to remove stubborn caked-on materials. Rinse thoroughly. Use a wet microfiber cloth to wipe away remaining particles at the base of the unit underneath the screen. Cleaning the screen at the bottom of your GE Profile should be a part of your monthly maintenance routine.

Precaution

• If you notice that the screen is stuck or you are unable to remove the screen to clean it, do not force or pry the screen loose. Call a technician to help remove the screen. Never stick your hand in the dishwasher when it is cycling or turned on. Do not force anything down the drain to unclog it; remove the drain manually.