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HomeRepair HelpGE Dishwasher RepairGE Dishwasher not cleaning Repair
GE Dishwasher not cleaning
If your GE dishwasher is not cleaning dishes, start with the basics and then work toward the parts most likely to cause the problem. A GE dishwasher not cleaning properly is most often caused by a clogged or failing water inlet valve that is not letting in enough water, which leaves dishes still dirty after the dishwasher cycle. Next, check for improper loading, since blocked spray patterns can keep water from reaching every plate, cup, and bowl. Water temperature matters too. If the incoming hot water is below 120°F, your dishwasher may not wash properly. After that, inspect the center wash arm support, center wash arm assembly, and lower wash arm assembly. If these wash arm parts are clogged, damaged, or not lining up with the water supply nozzle, your GE dishwasher may be leaving dishes dirty, especially on the upper or lower rack. Clear debris from the spray arm holes and replace any worn parts that are restricting water flow. To get the exact GE replacement part that fits your machine, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com.
01 - GE Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. If the valve is clogged or defective, the dishwasher won’t get enough water to clean dishes properly. If the water inlet valve is clogged, replace it. Do not attempt to clean the water inlet valve—cleaning the valve could make it more likely to fail.
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02 - Improper loading
Improper loading will keep the water from cleaning the dishes. Make sure you are leaving enough space between the dishes.
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03 - Improper water supply temperature
The water may not be hot enough. The recommended water supply temperature for a dishwasher to clean properly is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). If your hot water temperature is lower for safety reasons, try using a longer cycle that heats the water.
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04 - GE Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Support
The center wash arm is attached to a support that is normally attached to the underside of the upper dishrack. Water flows through the support to the arm which circulates the water to the dishes in the upper rack. If the support is damaged or obstructed water may not flow properly. Inspect the support for any damage or obstruction and replace if necessary. In addition, make sure that the support is mating properly with the water supply nozzle.
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05 - GE Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Assembly
The center wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the upper rack. If water can’t flow properly through the center wash arm, the dishes in the upper rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles can get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the center wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it. In addition, make sure that the center wash arm assembly is mating properly with the water supply nozzle.
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06 - GE Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly
The lower wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the lower rack. If water can’t flow properly through the lower wash arm, the dishes in the lower rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles can get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the lower wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it.
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07 - GE Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Support
The lower wash arm is attached to a support fastened to the sump assembly. Water flows through the support to the arm which circulates the water to the dishes in the lower dishrack. If the support is damaged or obstructed water may not flow properly. Inspect the support for any damage or obstruction and replace if necessary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my GE dishwasher not cleaning dishes even though it runs?
How do I fix a GE dishwasher leaving dishes dirty on the upper rack?
Can a bad water inlet valve cause a GE dishwasher to not wash properly?
What water temperature does a GE dishwasher need to clean properly?
How do I find the right replacement part for my GE dishwasher not cleaning problem?