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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code Not Draining

Controller has not sensed that the machine is empty after 5 minutes of draining.

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Controller has not sensed that the machine is empty after 5 minutes of draining.

First step from the service manual

Check drain pump, drain hose, sump, and non-return flap valve.

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

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What Not Draining means on a GE dishwasher

The GE dishwasher "Not Draining" error is triggered when the controller fails to detect that the tub has emptied within 5 minutes of the drain cycle beginning. The control board monitors the drain process and expects to confirm an empty sump within that window. If water remains in the tub after the 5-minute threshold, the controller flags the fault and halts the cycle to prevent overflow or pump damage.

The drain system in a GE dishwasher consists of several interconnected components: the drain pump, the drain hose, the sump basin at the bottom of the tub, and the non-return flap valve (also called a check valve). A failure or blockage at any one of these points can interrupt the flow of water out of the machine. The drain pump is responsible for actively pushing water through the hose, while the non-return flap valve prevents drained water from flowing back into the tub. A stuck or fouled valve is a commonly overlooked cause of this error.

Blockages are the most frequent root cause. Food debris, broken glass, or accumulated grease can clog the sump strainer, jam the pump impeller, or obstruct the drain hose. A kinked or improperly routed drain hose can also restrict flow enough to exceed the 5-minute drain window. If the physical path is clear, the drain pump motor itself should be tested, as a failed pump will produce no water movement regardless of electrical signals from the controller.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Not Draining

  1. 01

    Clogged Sump or Strainer

    Wiring / connection

    Food particles, glass chips, and debris accumulate in the sump basin and strainer at the bottom of the tub, restricting water flow to the pump. Remove and inspect the lower filter assembly for visible blockage.

  2. 02

    Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose

    Wiring / connection

    The drain hose can become kinked behind the dishwasher or clogged with grease buildup, reducing flow enough that the tub cannot empty within 5 minutes. Check the full length of the hose for kinks, and disconnect it to clear any internal blockage.

  3. 03

    Failed or Jammed Drain Pump

    Part replacement

    The drain pump motor may have seized, burned out, or have its impeller jammed by debris. If the sump and hose are clear but no water movement occurs during the drain cycle, the pump itself should be tested and likely replaced.

  4. 04

    Stuck Non-Return Flap Valve

    Part replacement

    The non-return flap valve (check valve) prevents drained water from re-entering the tub, but if it sticks closed it can block drainage entirely. Inspect the valve for debris or damage and verify it moves freely.

  5. 05

    Clogged or Improperly Connected House Drain

    Wiring / connection

    If the dishwasher drain hose connects to a garbage disposal or sink drain that is clogged or has not had the knockout plug removed, water cannot exit the dishwasher. Check the connection point at the disposal or drain and clear any obstruction.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Not Draining

What does Not Draining mean on a GE dishwasher?
The Not Draining error means the dishwasher controller ran the drain pump for 5 minutes but did not detect that the tub had emptied. The machine stops the cycle to prevent damage. The issue is most often a clog in the sump, drain hose, or non-return flap valve, though a failed drain pump can also trigger this fault.
How do I fix a GE dishwasher that is not draining?
Start by cleaning the sump filter and strainer basket at the bottom of the tub, as debris buildup is the most common cause. Then check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, and inspect the non-return flap valve for debris holding it shut. If those components are clear, test the drain pump for proper operation and replace it if it is not functioning.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the Not Draining error?
A reset may clear the error code temporarily, but it will return if the underlying cause has not been resolved. If water is still sitting in the tub, manually remove it first, then address the blockage or component failure before running another cycle. Resetting without fixing the problem can result in repeated faults or pump damage.
Is it safe to use my GE dishwasher when it shows a Not Draining error?
No, you should not run the dishwasher until the issue is resolved. Standing water in the tub can harbor bacteria and cause odors, and running the drain pump repeatedly against a blockage can burn out the pump motor. Leaving water in the tub for extended periods can also lead to interior damage or mold growth.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher that is not draining?
If the problem is a simple clog in the filter or drain hose, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. Replacing a failed drain pump typically involves parts costs in the range of $40 to $120 depending on the model, plus labor if a technician is hired. A non-return flap valve is generally inexpensive, often in the $10 to $30 range for the part alone.

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