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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code F97

Absent heat source

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Absent heat source - Calrod (heater) not detected by machine control.

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What F97 means on a GE dishwasher

F97 on a GE dishwasher indicates the control board detected an absent heat source during a wash or dry cycle. The board monitors temperature rise over time using the thermistor. When the water temperature fails to reach the expected threshold within a set window, F97 triggers. The fault points to the heating element, the thermistor that reads water temperature, water fill level, or the main control board itself. Low water level is checked first because without adequate water covering the heater, the element cannot transfer heat effectively and may appear absent to the control board.

For homeowners, this code means your dishwasher ran a cycle but could not confirm that the water was being heated. Dishes may come out cold, wet, or with residue. The heating element is a coil at the bottom of the tub that heats water during washing and aids drying. The thermistor is a small sensor that tells the control board the current water temperature. If either part fails, or if the water level is too low, the board has no way to verify heat is present and shuts down with F97. This is not a code to ignore, as repeated cycles without heat will leave dishes unsanitary.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F97

  1. 01

    Low water fill level

    Wiring / connection

    If the dishwasher does not fill to the correct level, the heating element may not be submerged or may heat ineffectively, causing the control board to register no heat source. Check the float switch and water inlet valve for proper operation.

  2. 02

    Failed heating element

    Part replacement

    The heating element can burn out or develop an open circuit, meaning it draws no power and produces no heat. The control board detects zero temperature rise and logs F97.

  3. 03

    Faulty thermistor

    Part replacement

    A thermistor that has drifted out of spec or failed open will send incorrect or no temperature readings to the control board. The board interprets the missing signal as an absent heat source even if the element is working normally.

  4. 04

    Defective main control board

    Part replacement

    If the control board cannot send voltage to the heater circuit or cannot process the thermistor signal, it will generate F97. This is less common than a failed element or thermistor but should be evaluated after ruling out those components.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F97

What does error code F97 mean on a GE dishwasher?
F97 means the control board detected an absent heat source during the cycle. The board monitors temperature using a thermistor and expects the water to reach a target temperature within a set time. When that does not happen, F97 is logged. The fault can originate from a low water level, a burned-out heating element, a bad thermistor, or a failed main control board.
How do I fix F97 on a GE dishwasher?
Start by confirming the dishwasher fills to the correct water level, which should cover the bottom of the tub. If fill level is normal, test the heating element for continuity with a multimeter. A reading of OL or infinite resistance means the element is open and needs replacement. If the element tests good, check the thermistor resistance against the spec in your service manual. Replace any component that tests out of range, and test the main control board last.
Can I still use my GE dishwasher with an F97 error code active?
You can run the dishwasher mechanically, but the cycle will complete without proper water heating. This means dishes will not be sanitized to safe temperatures and will likely come out wet with food residue. Running cycles repeatedly in this condition is not recommended, particularly for households with infants, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals who rely on sanitization.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher F97 error?
A replacement heating element typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part, and a DIY replacement on most GE models takes one to two hours with basic tools. A thermistor is usually $15 to $40. If the main control board is the cause, parts alone can run $80 to $200 or more. Adding professional labor, expect $150 to $350 total depending on the component replaced and your local labor rates.
Is the F97 code on a GE dishwasher always caused by a bad heating element?
Not always. The heating element is one of the most common causes, but a low water fill level, a failed thermistor, or a faulty main control board can each produce F97. Testing in order, starting with water level and then the element, keeps you from replacing parts unnecessarily. The thermistor and control board should only be replaced after the element and fill system have been ruled out.

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