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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code Ld

Long drain

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Long drain - drain feedback switch closed longer than 95 seconds but pump motor continues up to 405 seconds.

First step from the service manual

Clean air gap and drain line.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What Ld means on a GE dishwasher

The Ld error code on a GE dishwasher indicates a long drain condition. Specifically, the drain feedback switch remains closed for longer than 95 seconds during a drain cycle, signaling that water is not evacuating from the sump at the expected rate. Despite this feedback signal, the control board allows the pump motor to continue running for up to 405 seconds in an attempt to complete the drain before ultimately faulting out. This extended runtime is a built-in recovery window, not a sign that the control board has failed.

The drain feedback switch monitors whether water is present and draining properly. When drainage is obstructed or slowed, the switch stays closed past the 95-second threshold, triggering the fault code. The most common causes are physical blockages in the drain path, including a clogged air gap, a kinked or obstructed drain hose, or a blocked dishwasher filter and sump. These restrictions force the drain pump to work against back-pressure, slowing or completely preventing water movement.

Less commonly, the fault can result from a drain pump that is mechanically degraded or has a failing impeller, a faulty drain feedback switch that stays closed even when the sump is empty, or a drain hose that is not properly looped and allows backflow from the sink drain. Because the code is triggered by a timing threshold rather than a direct flow measurement, even a partial restriction can cause the Ld fault to appear consistently. Clearing the physical drain path should always be the first step before pursuing electrical or component-level diagnostics.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Ld

  1. 01

    Clogged air gap or drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    The air gap fitting on the sink deck and the drain hose are the most frequent sources of Ld faults. Food debris, grease buildup, or a kink in the hose restricts water flow and keeps the drain cycle running past the 95-second threshold.

  2. 02

    Blocked dishwasher filter or sump

    Wiring / connection

    A heavily soiled filter screen or debris accumulated in the sump restricts the drain pump inlet, reducing flow rate enough to trigger the long drain fault. Remove and rinse the filter assembly and inspect the sump area for obstructions.

  3. 03

    Improper drain hose routing or backflow

    Wiring / connection

    If the drain hose is not looped to the required height before connecting to the sink drain or garbage disposal, water from the sink can siphon back into the dishwasher, causing repeated or extended drain attempts.

  4. 04

    Worn or failing drain pump

    Part replacement

    A drain pump with a degraded impeller or failing motor windings cannot generate sufficient flow to drain the sump within the allowed time window. If the drain path is clear and the fault persists, the pump should be tested and replaced if defective.

  5. 05

    Faulty drain feedback switch

    Part replacement

    If the drain feedback switch fails in the closed position, the control board sees a continuous drain signal even after the sump is empty, triggering the Ld fault regardless of actual drain performance. Verify the switch opens correctly once the sump is drained before replacing it.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Ld

What does Ld mean on a GE dishwasher?
Ld stands for Long Drain. It means the dishwasher's drain feedback switch stayed closed for more than 95 seconds during a drain cycle, indicating water is not leaving the sump fast enough. The pump motor will continue running for up to 405 seconds trying to complete the drain before the fault is fully logged. The most common cause is a blockage in the air gap, drain hose, or filter.
How do I fix the Ld error code on my GE dishwasher?
Start by cleaning the air gap on the sink and inspecting the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Next, remove and clean the dishwasher filter and check the sump for debris. Confirm the drain hose is looped high enough to prevent backflow from the sink. If the error returns after clearing the drain path, the drain pump or feedback switch may need to be tested and replaced.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the Ld code?
A reset may temporarily clear the Ld code, but it will return as soon as the dishwasher runs another drain cycle if the underlying blockage or component issue has not been addressed. To permanently resolve the fault, the cause of the restricted drain must be corrected first. Resetting is useful for confirming the repair was successful after the issue is fixed.
Is it safe to run my GE dishwasher when it shows the Ld code?
Running the dishwasher with an active Ld fault is not recommended. If water is not draining properly, it can accumulate in the sump and potentially overflow, cause odors, or put unnecessary strain on the drain pump motor. Diagnose and resolve the drain restriction before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher with the Ld error code?
If the fault is caused by a clog in the air gap, drain hose, or filter, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. If the drain pump needs to be replaced, parts and labor typically range from around 100 dollars to 250 dollars depending on your location and service provider. Replacing a faulty drain feedback switch is generally less expensive than a pump replacement.

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