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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code C4

Control detects a flood condition within the dishwasher; control will beep at 1 second intervals, de-energize the water valve, start the circulate…

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What the C4 error code actually means

The C4 code means your GE dishwasher detected too much water inside and shut off the water supply as a safety measure. The dishwasher is trying to protect itself and your home from a potential overflow. You may need to check that nothing is blocking the float sensor at the bottom of the tub, and that the water valve is not stuck open.

Diagnostic procedure

The full C4 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Press RESET to clear display; check for double fill after PF, float switch cover dislodged, water valve stuck open, flow rate of valve too high, or bad switch (open wire).
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Most common causes of C4

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Float Switch Cover Dislodged
  2. 2Water Inlet Valve Stuck Open
  3. 3Double Fill After Power Failure
  4. 4Inlet Valve Flow Rate Too High
  5. 5Failed Float Switch or Open Wiring

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Questions people ask about C4

What does C4 mean on a GE dishwasher?
The C4 code means the control board has detected a flood or overfill condition inside the dishwasher tub. In response, the control de-energizes the water inlet valve, starts the circulate pump, and beeps at 1-second intervals. The dishwasher will run the pump for up to 1 minute after the overfill condition clears before allowing normal operation to resume.
Is it safe to use my GE dishwasher when the C4 code is showing?
You should not run the dishwasher while the C4 code is active. The code indicates a potential water overflow situation, and continuing to operate the appliance without diagnosing the cause could result in water damage to your kitchen floor or cabinets. Allow the control to complete its pump-out cycle, then inspect the float switch and inlet valve before attempting another wash cycle.
What should I check first when my GE dishwasher shows a C4 code?
Start by pressing RESET to clear the display, then open the dishwasher door and locate the float assembly at the bottom of the tub. Check that the float switch cover is seated properly and that the float moves up and down freely without obstruction. If the float assembly looks intact, consider whether a recent power failure may have caused a double fill, and then move on to inspecting the water inlet valve for signs of being stuck open.
Will pressing RESET fix the C4 error on my GE dishwasher?
Pressing RESET will clear the C4 code from the display, but it will not fix the underlying cause if one exists. If the error was triggered by a power failure causing a double fill, a reset may be all that is needed. However, if the float switch cover is dislodged, the inlet valve is faulty, or the float switch has failed, those issues must be addressed or the code will return.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher showing a C4 error?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only the float switch cover needs to be reseated, there is no parts cost and the fix takes only a few minutes. Replacing a faulty float switch typically costs between $15 and $50 for the part, while a new water inlet valve generally ranges from $25 to $80 depending on the model. Adding a technician service call will increase the total cost to roughly $100 to $250 in most cases.

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