Master the Art of DIY: How to Test GE Dishwasher Drain Pump in Minutes!

Is your GE dishwasher leaving a puddle of dirty water on the floor? Does it seem like the water isn‘t draining properly? You might be dealing with a faulty drain pump. This blog post will guide you through the process of how to test GE dishwasher drain pump and identify the root of the issue.

Understanding the Dishwasher Drain Pump

The drain pump is a crucial component of your dishwasher, responsible for removing dirty water from the tub after the washing cycle. It’s essentially a small motor that spins a impeller, creating suction to draw out the water. When this pump malfunctions, your dishwasher can’t drain effectively, leading to a number of problems like:

• Water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher: This is the most obvious sign of a drain pump issue.
• Dishwasher not starting: A faulty drain pump can prevent the dishwasher from starting as it might detect a water leak.
• Error codes: Some GE dishwashers display error codes that indicate a drain pump failure.

Safety First: Unplug the Dishwasher

Before you begin testing the drain pump, ensure your safety by unplugging the dishwasher from the power outlet. This will prevent any accidental shocks while you work on the appliance.

Step 1: Locate the Drain Pump

The drain pump is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, often near the drain hose. It’s a small, circular component with a motor and impeller attached. You may need to remove the lower access panel or the bottom rack to gain access to it.

Step 2: Disconnect the Drain Pump

To test the drain pump, you need to disconnect it from the dishwasher’s wiring. Carefully locate the wires connected to the pump and use a pair of pliers or a screwdriver to disconnect them. Be sure to note the wire positions so you can reconnect them correctly later.

Step 3: Use a Multimeter to Test the Drain Pump

A multimeter is a handy tool for testing electrical components. Set your multimeter to the resistance setting (usually represented by an ohm symbol). Then, touch the probes to the two terminals of the drain pump.

• If the multimeter reads a resistance value: The drain pump is likely working.
• If the multimeter reads an open circuit (OL): This indicates a broken drain pump.

Step 4: Test the Drain Pump Motor

If the multimeter shows that the drain pump has resistance, the next step is to test the motor.

• Remove the drain pump from the dishwasher: This will give you better access to the motor.
• Apply a small amount of 12-volt DC power to the terminals: You can use a battery or a power supply for this.
• Observe the motor: If the motor spins freely, it’s working. If it doesn’t spin, the motor is likely faulty.

Step 5: Inspect the Drain Hose and Filter

While the drain pump might be the culprit, it’s worth inspecting the drain hose and filter for any blockages or clogs. A clogged hose or filter can prevent water from draining properly, even with a functional drain pump.

Step 6: Reassemble the Dishwasher

Once you’ve tested the drain pump and ensured it’s working correctly, reassemble the dishwasher by connecting the wires and securing the drain pump back in its place.

Time to Make a Decision

If the drain pump is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. You can purchase a new drain pump from a local appliance store or online retailer. Ensure you get the right model compatible with your GE dishwasher.

Replacing the Drain Pump

Replacing the drain pump involves removing the old one and installing the new one in its place. Follow these steps:

• Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.
• Remove the drain pump from the dishwasher.
• Disconnect the wires from the old pump.
• Connect the wires to the new pump.
• Secure the new pump in its place.
• Reconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
• Clean the drain filter regularly.
• Make sure the dishwasher is properly leveled.
• Ensure the drain hose is properly connected to the drain line.

Wrapping Up: Your GE Dishwasher is Back in Action!

By following these steps, you’ve successfully tested your GE dishwasher drain pump and potentially identified the source of your drainage problems. If the pump is faulty, replacing it can get your dishwasher back to its cleaning duties.

Popular Questions

1. How often should I clean my dishwasher drain filter?
It’s recommended to clean the drain filter at least once a month to prevent blockages and ensure optimal drainage.
2. What are some common signs of a faulty drain pump?
Common signs include water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher, the dishwasher not starting, and error codes related to drainage issues.
3. Can I fix a faulty drain pump myself?
Replacing a drain pump is a relatively straightforward task, but it requires some basic technical knowledge and familiarity with appliances. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, it’s best to call a qualified appliance technician.
4. How much does a dishwasher drain pump cost?
The cost of a new drain pump can vary depending on the model and brand. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for a replacement pump.
5. What should I do if the drain pump is not the problem?
If the drain pump is working correctly, the problem could be related to a clogged drain hose, a faulty drain hose connection, or a blocked drain line. You’ll need to troubleshoot these areas further to identify the root cause.