GE Dishwasher Error Code WASH (flashing)

A flashing WASH indicator on a GE value-model dishwasher means the drain pump ran for more than 400 seconds without successfully emptying the tub, causing the machine to stop completely. This points to a severe blockage somewhere in the drain path. The dishwasher will not resume the cycle until the blockage is cleared and the remaining water is manually pumped out using the reset procedure.

The dishwasher shuts itself down when this error triggers, so it will not continue running or actively overflow on its own. However, standing water left in the tub for an extended period can promote mold growth and odors. It is best to address the drain blockage and pump out the remaining water as soon as possible.

If the problem is a clogged air gap, kinked hose, or blocked household drain, the repair can often be completed at no cost or for a minimal amount spent on cleaning supplies. If the drain pump itself has failed and needs replacement, parts alone can range from roughly $30 to $100 or more depending on availability, with professional labor adding $75 to $200 on top of that depending on your area.

Start by inspecting the air gap on your sink deck and cleaning out any debris, then check the drain hose for kinks or pinches along its full length, and confirm that the household drain or garbage disposal is not blocked. Once the obstruction is resolved, latch the door, press RESET, select a wash cycle, and then press START followed by RESET again to initiate a manual drain cycle and clear the standing water.

A simple reset alone will not permanently clear this error if the underlying drain blockage is still present, because the pump-out cycle will exceed 400 seconds again and the fault will return immediately. You must first remove the obstruction from the air gap, drain hose, or household drain line, and then use the specific pump-out sequence (RESET, select cycle, START, RESET) to drain the remaining water before the machine can operate normally.