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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code LEAK DETECTED

A possible water leak has been detected by the dishwasher's leak detection system; the dishwasher will drain…

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

A possible water leak has been detected by the dishwasher's leak detection system; the dishwasher will drain and cancel the cycle.

First step from the service manual

Call for service.

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

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What LEAK DETECTED means on a GE dishwasher

The LEAK DETECTED error on a GE dishwasher indicates that the appliance's leak detection system has identified water accumulating in an area where it should not be present. When this condition is triggered, the dishwasher automatically initiates a drain cycle and cancels the current wash program to prevent water damage to the surrounding cabinetry, flooring, or the unit itself. The detection system typically relies on a flood float or optical sensor located in the base pan of the dishwasher. When water reaches this sensor, the control board receives a signal and responds with the protective shutdown sequence.

The most common hardware involved includes the base pan flood float assembly, the door gasket, the pump and pump housing, water inlet valve connections, and the hose connections running between the sump, pump, and drain. Any failure that allows water to escape the wash tub and collect in the base pan can trigger this error. Small leaks that develop over multiple cycles can accumulate enough water in the base pan to activate the sensor even if the source leak itself is intermittent.

Because this error involves active water intrusion, GE's guidance is to call for service rather than attempt self-diagnosis. The base pan may contain standing water, internal components may be wet, and the root cause can range from a simple worn door gasket to a cracked sump assembly. A technician will inspect the base pan, identify the leak source, and assess whether seals, hoses, or major components need replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of LEAK DETECTED

  1. 01

    Worn or damaged door gasket

    Part replacement

    The rubber seal around the dishwasher door can crack, compress, or pull away from the door frame over time, allowing water to spray or drip out during the wash cycle. Inspect the full perimeter of the door seal for visible tears, deformation, or sections that have separated from the channel.

  2. 02

    Loose or cracked hose connection

    Part replacement

    Hoses connecting the pump, sump, and drain can loosen at their clamp fittings or develop cracks from age and heat cycling, causing water to drip into the base pan. Checking these connections often requires pulling the unit out from the cabinet for access.

  3. 03

    Faulty water inlet valve

    Part replacement

    The inlet valve controls water flow into the tub and can develop a slow internal drip if the valve seat or solenoid seal degrades. This typically produces a steady trickle into the base pan even when the dishwasher is between cycles.

  4. 04

    Pump or pump housing crack

    Part replacement

    The circulation or drain pump housing can crack due to impact or long-term stress, allowing water to escape directly into the base pan during operation. A technician will need to inspect the pump assembly and may need to replace the pump.

  5. 05

    Flood float sensor stuck or waterlogged base pan

    Wiring / connection

    If the base pan has accumulated water from a prior leak event that was not fully resolved, residual water can keep the flood float sensor in the triggered position even after the original leak source is repaired. The base pan must be dried out completely before the error will clear.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about LEAK DETECTED

What does LEAK DETECTED mean on a GE dishwasher?
The LEAK DETECTED error means the dishwasher's leak detection system has sensed water in the base pan of the unit, where water should not normally be present. The dishwasher responds by draining the tub and canceling the active wash cycle to protect your home from water damage. The error points to a real or recent water leak somewhere in the appliance's plumbing, door sealing, or internal components. You should discontinue use of the dishwasher and have it inspected by a qualified technician.
Can I fix the LEAK DETECTED error myself?
GE recommends calling for service when this error appears because identifying the exact leak source requires inspecting components inside the base cabinet and beneath the unit. A homeowner comfortable with appliance repair can visually check the door gasket for obvious damage, but tracing leaks from hoses, the pump, or the inlet valve typically requires pulling the dishwasher out and disassembling portions of the lower assembly. Given that active water intrusion is involved, professional diagnosis is the safer path.
Is it safe to use my GE dishwasher when it shows LEAK DETECTED?
No, you should not continue running the dishwasher after this error appears. Using the appliance with a confirmed or suspected leak can cause water damage to cabinetry, subflooring, and adjacent structures. There is also a potential electrical hazard if water contacts wiring or electrical components in the base of the unit. Leave the dishwasher off until the leak source has been identified and repaired.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the LEAK DETECTED error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but the underlying condition will cause the error to return if the leak source has not been repaired. Additionally, if water remains in the base pan, the flood float sensor will continue to signal the control board and the error will reappear almost immediately. The base pan must be dried out and the leak source corrected before a reset will hold.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher showing LEAK DETECTED?
Repair costs depend entirely on the source of the leak. A door gasket replacement is typically the least expensive repair, often falling in the range of $75 to $175 including parts and labor. Hose, inlet valve, or pump repairs generally run from $150 to $350 or more depending on the specific components involved and local labor rates. A technician's diagnostic visit will be needed to identify the cause before an accurate cost estimate can be given.

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