Drain pump
Common dishwasher and washer water-removal part.
GE and GE Profile dishwashers display error codes when a cycle problem is detected. This guide covers every code you’re likely to see and what to do about each one.
How to clear GE dishwasher error codes: Press Start/Reset and hold for 3 seconds. This clears the current error and cancels the cycle. If the error reappears when you restart, the underlying problem needs to be fixed.
GE Dishwasher Error Code Quick Reference
| Code | Meaning | First Action |
|---|---|---|
| C1 / 1H | Fill problem | Check water supply |
| C2 / 2H | Drain problem | Clean filter, check drain |
| C3 / 3H | Pressure sensor fault | Check water level |
| C4 / 4H | Turbidity sensor fault | Run cleaning cycle |
| C7 / 7H | Water temperature sensor | Check heating element |
| PF | Power failure | Restart cycle |
| H20 | No water detected | Same as C1 |
C1 / 1H / H20 — Fill Problem
The dishwasher didn’t receive water during the fill phase.
Fix:
- Check the shutoff valve under the sink — fully open (counterclockwise).
- Inspect the inlet hose behind the machine for kinks.
- Clean the inlet valve screen (unscrew hose at valve, remove screen, rinse it).
- If supply checks out, test the inlet valve solenoid with a multimeter (500–1500 ohms = good; open circuit = failed).
C2 / 2H — Drain Problem
The dishwasher couldn’t drain within the time limit.
Fix:
- Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub. Remove the lower rack, turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise to remove, pull out the flat filter beneath it, rinse both under the faucet.
- Check drain hose for kinks.
- If connected to a garbage disposal, confirm the disposal knockout plug was removed during installation.
- If filter is clean and hose is clear, test the drain pump for continuity.
C3 / 3H — Pressure Sensor Fault
The pressure sensor that monitors water fill level has malfunctioned.
Fix: Run a drain cycle to fully empty the machine first. Restart a wash cycle and observe if the machine fills correctly. If C3 returns consistently, the pressure sensor or its wiring has failed — a technician-level diagnosis.
C4 / 4H — Turbidity Sensor Fault
The turbidity sensor detects how dirty the wash water is to optimize the cycle. A fault here doesn’t affect basic washing but can cause inefficient cycles.
Fix: Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaning tablet (Affresh, Finish, or similar). Scale and grease buildup on the sensor can trigger C4. If the code persists after cleaning, the sensor needs replacement.
C7 / 7H — Water Temperature Sensor
The water temperature sensor (thermistor) has failed or is reading out of range. Dishes may come out dirty because the water temperature isn’t optimal, or the sanitize cycle may fail.
Fix: Test the temperature sensor with a multimeter — it should change resistance as temperature changes. Replace if reading is fixed or open circuit.
PF — Power Failure
A power interruption occurred mid-cycle. Not a fault — the dishwasher stopped safely when power was lost. Restart the cycle.
Parts You May Need
- GE dishwasher water inlet valve
- GE dishwasher drain pump
- GE dishwasher water temperature sensor
- Dishwasher cleaner tablets
- GE dishwasher filter assembly
When to Call a Technician
If C1 or C2 persists after cleaning screens and filters, the inlet valve or drain pump needs replacement. Both are accessible repairs. C3 and sensor faults may require a technician for proper diagnosis.