GE Dishwasher Error Codes

Below are the most common GE dishwasher error codes (also applies to Hotpoint, Haier). Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.

Safety Warning

1 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.

Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes

Code C1 Code C3 Code C4 Code C6 Code C7 Code C8 Code PF Code E1 Code C2 Code Flashing lights

GE Code C1: Drain pump timeout — pump exceeded 2 minutes without draining

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $325

Common Causes

  • Clogged drain filter or air gap
  • Kinked drain hose
  • Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed (new installations)
  • Failed drain pump

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Clean the air gap on the sink (if installed) by removing the cap and clearing debris.
  2. Check the drain hose for kinks and proper positioning.
  3. If connected to a garbage disposal, ensure the knockout plug was removed during installation.
  4. Clean the drain filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.

Call a professional when: Drain paths are clear and the air gap is clean but the code persists — the drain pump may have failed.

GE Code C3: Drain error — dishwasher not draining properly

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $325

Common Causes

  • Clogged sink drain or garbage disposal
  • Blocked or kinked drain hose
  • Clogged drain filter
  • Failed drain pump

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 30 seconds to reset.
  2. Clear any clogs from the sink drain or garbage disposal.
  3. Check and clean the dishwasher drain hose — ensure it is not kinked or damaged.
  4. Clean the drain filter at the bottom of the tub.

Call a professional when: All drain paths are clear but water remains — the drain pump needs professional replacement.

GE Code C4: Fill after power failure — machine filled twice after an outage

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $0 – $250

Common Causes

  • Power failure occurred during a fill cycle
  • Water inlet valve was open when power returned
  • Control board not properly tracking water level after outage

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 2 minutes to reset the control board.
  2. Restore power and run a new cycle.
  3. This code usually clears after a successful cycle.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset or the dishwasher overfills repeatedly — the water inlet valve or control board needs diagnosis.

GE Code C6: Low water temperature — incoming water not hot enough

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $100 – $300

Common Causes

  • Water heater set below 120 degrees F
  • Long hot water pipe run from heater to dishwasher
  • Faulty heating element inside the dishwasher
  • Defective water temperature sensor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Run the hot water at the kitchen sink for 1-2 minutes before starting the dishwasher to clear the cold water from the line.
  2. Check your water heater — it should be set to at least 120 degrees F.
  3. Turn off power for 5 minutes to reset, then run an empty cycle.

Call a professional when: Hot water reaches the dishwasher but the code persists — the heating element or temperature sensor needs professional testing.

GE Code C7: Water temperature sensor failure — thermistor circuit fault

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • Failed temperature sensor (thermistor)
  • Loose wiring at the sensor or control board
  • Water damage to the sensor circuit

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 30 seconds, then restore and run a cycle.
  2. If the code clears, it was a transient error.
  3. Check that hot water is reaching the dishwasher by running the sink faucet first.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset — the temperature sensor needs professional replacement, which requires removing the door inner panel.

GE Code C8: Detergent cup blocked — dispenser not opening fully

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $75 – $200

Common Causes

  • Silverware, pan handle, or dish blocking the dispenser door
  • Detergent cake or buildup jamming the dispenser
  • Detergent dispenser spring or latch broken
  • Items loaded too close to the dispenser

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Rearrange dishes and utensils — ensure nothing is directly in front of the detergent dispenser.
  2. Clean the dispenser door and latch area of old detergent buildup.
  3. Test the dispenser by closing it and checking if it springs open when pressed.
  4. Use pods placed in the bottom of the tub as an alternative if the dispenser is damaged.

Call a professional when: The dispenser mechanism is broken and will not latch or open — the dispenser assembly needs replacement.

GE Code PF: Power failure — power was interrupted during a cycle

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $0 – $150

Common Causes

  • Power outage during a wash cycle
  • Circuit breaker tripped
  • Loose electrical connection at the junction box

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press Start to resume the interrupted cycle, or press Cancel and start a new one.
  2. If the breaker tripped, reset it.
  3. This is informational — not typically a fault.

Call a professional when: The breaker trips repeatedly when the dishwasher runs — there may be a wiring fault or component short.

GE Code E1: Water leak detected — flood switch activated

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $400

Common Causes

  • Water leaking from a hose, pump, or door gasket
  • Excess suds from using dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent
  • Cracked tub or sump housing
  • Loose hose clamp

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check around and under the dishwasher for visible water.
  2. Ensure you are using only dishwasher detergent — never hand dish soap.
  3. Inspect the door gasket for tears or food debris.
  4. Turn off power and water supply until the leak source is identified.

Call a professional when: A leak is coming from under the dishwasher — the pump seal, hose, or sump needs professional repair.

GE Code C2: Drain motor error — drain pump not running

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Failed drain pump motor
  • Wiring issue at the drain pump
  • Jammed drain pump impeller
  • Control board fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power for 5 minutes and then try running a cycle.
  2. Clean the drain filter — debris may have jammed the pump impeller.
  3. Listen for the pump humming — a hum without draining suggests a jam.

Call a professional when: The pump does not run or hums without draining after cleaning — professional drain pump replacement is needed.

GE Code Flashing lights: Multiple flashing LED lights — various sensor or control faults

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $100 – $400

Common Causes

  • Power surge reset the control board
  • Door latch not engaging properly
  • Control board malfunction
  • Heating or sensor circuit fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 2 minutes to perform a full reset.
  2. Restore power and try starting a new cycle.
  3. Ensure the door is closing and latching fully.
  4. Count the number of flashing lights to identify the specific code — refer to your manual.

Call a professional when: The lights continue flashing after a reset or the dishwasher will not start — the control board may need replacement.

Need GE Repair in Central Texas?

Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for GE , Hotpoint, Haier, and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.

Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.

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