User Manual
20 49-4000218
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Troubleshooting Tips... Before you call for service
Problem Possible Cause What To Do
Suds in the tub Wrong detergent Use only high quality automatic dishwasher detergents to 
avoid sudsing. Cascade
®
 Platinum™ ActionPacs™ or 
Finish
®
 Quantum
®
 Automatic Dishwashing Detergent 
have been approved for use in all GE Appliances 
dishwashers.
To remove suds from the tub, open the dishwasher and 
let suds dissipate. Pump out water by pressing Start and 
close the door. Wait 30 seconds. Open the door, press 
and hold Start for 3 seconds, and close the door. Repeat 
if necessary.
Rinse agent was spilled Always wipe up rinse agent spills immediately.
Detergent left in 
dispenser cups
Dishes are blocking the 
detergent cup
Reposition the dishes, so the water from the lower spray 
arm can flush the detergent cup. See the Loading section.
Reposition dishware that may be keeping the dispenser 
cup door from opening. See the Loading section.
Black or gray marks 
on dishes
Aluminum utensils have 
rubbed against dishes
Remove marks with a mild, abrasive cleaner.
Dishes don’t dry Low inlet water temperature Make sure inlet water temperature is at least 120°F.
Select Heated Dry or Dry Boost Normal/High.
Use Wash Temp Boost/High.
Select a higher cycle, such as Steam Sani or Heavy/
Heavy Duty.
Rinse agent dispenser is 
empty
Check the rinse agent dispenser and fill as required.
Additional drying time is 
needed
Leave door closed after the Clean light appears to allow 
the fan to run an additional 90 minutes (on some models).
Note: If you open the door, this fan extension will be cancelled.
Cycle selection If using Light/1 Hour/Time Saver cycle which uses 
lower water temperature and thus limited dry performance, 
switch to a different cycle.
Cycle completion Allow cycles to fully complete. See Long cycle times in 
this Troubleshooting Tips section
Long cycle times Dishwasher washes by 
alternating mid and lower 
spray arms
Longer cycles are normal. For best wash and dry 
performance, let cycle complete.
Soil level On some models, the turbidity sensor senses how much 
soil is on the dishes. Heavy soiled dish loads will add 
more time to the cycle. This is normal function. For best 
wash and dry performance, allow cycle to complete.
Control panel 
responded to inputs 
but dishwasher 
never filled with 
water
Door may not be completely 
closed
Make sure the door is firmly closed.
Water valve may be turned 
off
Make sure water valve (usually located under the sink) is 
turned on. If problem persists, call for service.
Flood float may be stuck Remove the Ultra-Fine Filter assembly and lightly tap the 
piece under the ultra fine filter assembly that looks like a 
dome. Replace the filter.










