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Error code reference

GE Washer Error Code 16

Adaptive Drain/Slow Drain

GE codesGE washer codes
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What the 16 error code actually means

This code means your washer has been tracking instances where the tub took longer to drain than expected, and that count has been stored in the machine's memory. If you also see fault 18 appearing at the same count, your washer is having a real draining problem that needs to be checked. The most likely culprit is a blockage somewhere in the drain system, like a clogged filter or a backed-up drain pipe in your home.

Diagnostic procedure

The full 16 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
If fault 16 is 100 and fault 18 never occurs there is no problem. If fault 16 and fault 18 equal each other in faults, look for drain blockages including house standpipe.
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Most common causes of 16

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1House standpipe or drain blockage
  2. 2Clogged or restricted drain hose
  3. 3Blocked pump filter or drain pump debris
  4. 4Weak or failing drain pump
  5. 5Pressure sensor malfunction

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Questions people ask about 16

What does 16 mean on a GE washer?
Fault 16 is a lifetime cumulative counter called Adaptive Drain or Slow Drain. It records every instance where the actual drain time exceeded what the control software calculated. The count is stored permanently in the machine's memory. Fault 16 alone is not necessarily a problem, but if fault 18 reaches the same count, a real drain issue exists and should be diagnosed.
Is it safe to keep using my GE washer with fault 16?
If fault 16 is present but fault 18 has not occurred or is at a much lower count, the washer is operating within acceptable limits and is generally safe to continue using. If both fault 16 and fault 18 are equal, the machine is consistently failing to drain properly, which can leave standing water in the tub and should be addressed before continued use.
How much does it cost to repair a GE washer with a fault 16 drain problem?
If the issue is a blocked drain hose or standpipe, the repair may cost nothing or just a small amount for a plumber to clear the household drain. Replacing a drain pump typically runs between 80 and 200 dollars depending on parts and labor in your area. A pressure sensor replacement is generally a lower-cost repair, often falling in the 50 to 150 dollar range including parts and labor.
How do I fix fault 16 on a GE washer?
Start by comparing the fault 16 count to the fault 18 count. If fault 16 is at 100 and fault 18 has never occurred, no repair is needed. If both counts are equal, inspect the house standpipe for blockages, check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, and clean the drain pump filter. If the drain path is clear, evaluate the drain pump and pressure sensor for proper operation.
Will resetting my GE washer clear fault 16?
No, fault 16 is a lifetime counter stored in the control board's memory and is not cleared by a standard power reset. The count accumulates over the entire life of the appliance and is intended to track long-term drain performance trends. Clearing it requires accessing the diagnostic mode through the service procedure.

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