How To Reset A GE Dishwasher [Inc. The Control Panel]

Dishwashers, including the GE brand, are convenient when you are too busy to hand wash dishes. It saves you time, cleans more efficiently, and is more hygienic. When it won't start, or the control panel has malfunctioned, you can troubleshoot by resetting it. But, how is this done? We consulted with the experts, and they gave us the following answers.

The steps to reset your GE dishwasher include:

• Press the start or reset button 
• Wait for some time
• Load the dishes

The steps to reset the control panel of your GE dishwasher include:

• Switch off the power and unplug the cord 
• Wait for one minute
• Plug back the cord and switch on the power

Keep reading to know how to reset your dishwasher when it refuses to start or when the control panel does not work. Included are other viable methods of troubleshooting and how much it costs to repair a dishwasher.

Steps To Reset Your Dishwasher When It Won’t Start

When your dishwasher refuses to start or you need to add extra dishes during a washing cycle, you may need to reset your GE dishwasher. The steps to take are:

Press The Start Or Reset Button 

If your machine stops mid-way or you need to add extra dishes, you will need to reset it. The start or the reset button is either located on top or at the front of the dishwasher. 

If you have a front control dishwasher, the control panel is on the front part of the machine. Look for the button and press it to reset.

On the other hand, if you have a top control dishwasher, you will find the control panel inside the door. You have to open the door to access the start or reset button, which you will press to reset the machine.

Wait For Some Time

If the machine malfunctioned during the wash, reset it by pressing the start button. Wait for a short time for it to start again.

But, if you want to add more dishes to the washer, wait at least 2 minutes after resetting it before opening the door.

As you wait, you may notice a light blinking, which is an indication that it is resetting. During this time, it is draining water, which takes about 90 seconds. Wait until the light has stopped blinking before restarting your machine again.

Load The Dishes

When the light has stopped blinking, open the door, being careful of any hot steam that may come out. Place your extra dishes into the machine.

Close the door, ensuring it is firmly latched. Press the start button to continue washing your dishes. 

When your dishwasher fails to reset, you can reboot as a last resort, which is explained in the following section.

How To Reboot Your Dishwasher

Rebooting is a hard reset and should not be done too many times. After trying to restart or reset your dishwasher and it still does not start working again, you may try rebooting it. The steps include:

Unplug Your Dishwasher

Unplug the cord of your dishwasher from the electrical outlet. Turn off the switch at the circuit breaker. Wait for 30 seconds.

Turn Back On The Power

You have the option of waiting up to 10 minutes if your machine needs it before turning back on power. After the waiting time has elapsed, turn back on the power and plug back the cord. Your machine should restart without a problem.

How To Troubleshoot Your Dishwasher

If your dishwasher will still not start after resetting and rebooting, then you can go for other troubleshooting options to fix it. The most common problems in a dishwasher and how to troubleshoot them include:

Dishwasher Does Not Start

As explained earlier in this post, your dishwasher may not start for various reasons. First, check that the power is on and that the child safety lock is disabled. If it still does not start, reset it.

If there’s still no response, reboot your machine. After trying everything possible, you may want to call a technician to inspect it.

Water Does Not Fill Or Will Not Stop Filling

A dishwasher needs a constant flow of water to work effectively. However, the dishwasher may not fill with water or may stop filling.

The most common problem would be a defective water valve. If it is faulty, it may not be able to pull water into the washer. The valve could also remain stuck open such that water continues to fill the dishwasher. The float switch could also bring about a lack of water or too much water if it is not working properly.

Either of these parts like the ones shown below can be replaced by a qualified technician.

Check out this GE water valve on Amazon.

Check out this GE float switch on Amazon.

Leaking Dishwasher

If your machine has cracks or the drainage hose and gaskets in the heating element are damaged, it could leak. The pump seal can also cause this problem. These components need replacement to prevent further damage to your unit and kitchen.

Your Dishwasher Does Not Drain Well

If your dishwasher does not drain properly, your kitchen could flood. A faulty check valve, like the one shown below, could be the likely culprit. It is normally found inside the drain sump.

If it is not moving as it should, it needs to be replaced, including the drain sump. The motor may also require replacement.

View this product on Amazon.

Dishes Not Drying Properly

When your dishwasher completes one cycle, the dishes should be perfectly dry. But, if they come out wet, the heating element could be damaged.

Call your technician to check the voltage of the element, and if there is little or no current, it will be replaced.

Cracks In Your Dishwasher

Cracks can cause soap and water to find their way to other components in the dishwasher, creating a dangerous situation. It is difficult to repair a cracked dishwasher, and you may need to buy a new one.

How To Reset The Control Panel Of Your GE Dishwasher

Sometimes, the keys on the control panel of your dishwasher may get stuck, or it does not send the commands to the machine. If the issue is minor, solve it by resetting it. 

But, before you do so, check to ensure that the child lock is disabled, the cord is plugged into the electrical outlet, and that power is available. After you confirm this, you can reset the control panel. 

Switch off the power, unplug the dishwasher, and wait for one minute. Switchback power and plug it in again. The control panel should begin working again. 

However, if it does not restart, you may need to replace it. If you are up to the task, you may go ahead with the job. But, if you are not confident enough, call a professional technician.

Follow the steps below:

1. Purchase a control panel that matches your dishwasher. In the case of a GE dishwasher, purchase a GE control panel like the one shown below from Amazon.
2. Unplug the cord from the electrical outlet.
3. Unscrew the control panel.
4. Disconnect all the wires from the current control panel.
5. Connect your wires to your new control panel.
6. Screw the new control panel in place.
7. Turn back the power.
8. Your new control panel should work.
9. You can now wash your dishes.

View this product on Amazon.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Dishwasher?

Generally, the cost to repair a dishwasher is between $160 and $300, with an average of $200. Some costs can escalate as high as $600 or more. However, these expenses depend on the age of the dishwasher, the repair done, the part to be replaced, and if it is under warranty or not. 

For example, to replace the pump would cost from $150 to $350, and to replace a motor could cost between $400 and $600. To replace the water inlet valve would cost between $80 and $125.

If you have to buy a new GE dishwasher, the cost ranges from $900 to $1,400, depending on the model. 

In Closing

Dishwashers are handy appliances that save us time. In addition, they clean thoroughly and are hygienic. Sometimes, your appliance could refuse to start. The control panel could also refuse to function.

Instead of panicking and calling a technician, you can first try to reset it. If it fails, try rebooting it. When that fails, you could try other troubleshooting methods that can help bring your dishwasher back to life.

The cost of repairing a dishwasher depends on several factors; some of which are age, the brand, and the complexity of the job.

If you would like to know how to clean the filter of a GE dishwasher, click here: How To Clean GE Dishwasher Filter

You may also want to know how to drain your dishwasher when it is not draining properly by clicking on this link: How To Drain GE Dishwasher