GE Dishwasher Not Spraying Water? – Learn How to Fix

Whenever the GE dishwasher not spraying water then the supply line is interrupted or clogged.

There are various components and factors involved in water circulation and in this guide, we’ll cover all of them!

The GE dishwasher stops spraying water due to different factors, including blocked spray arms, less water level in the dishwasher, clogged inlet hose, and much more.

The solution requires a thorough inspection and to unclog identified blockages.

Why Is GE Dishwasher Water Not Spraying?

The spray arms are one of the primary components that spray the water onto the dishes. Over time, the spray arms get blocked and a build-up layer prevents them from spraying water. 

However, there are many other factors as well that often prevent the GE dishwasher from spraying water even when the spray arms are in working order.

Let’s know about them.

The following are the most common causes of dishwashers not spraying water issue:

• Clogged or defective spray arms
• Blocked GE dishwasher filter
• Low household water pressure 
• The water supply valve is OFF
• Faulty Dishwasher pump or motor
• Loose connection of inlet valve
• Clogged detergent dispenser 

How To Fix When GE Dishwasher Not Spraying Water?

Important: Follow the steps in consecutive order for the best results in troubleshooting!

1. Check The Water Inlet Valve

It is very important to check the inlet valve since this is the primary source of water that enters the machine.

However, often the inlet valve gets clogged, defective, or turned off, which will surely prevent the arms from spraying any water. 

Here is how to check the GE dishwasher inlet valve:

1. Unplug the GE dishwasher from the power.
2. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
3. Find the inlet valve from the back of the machine.
4. Remove the water supply line from the valve.
5. Tip: Do this by rotating it counterclockwise using pliers.
6. Check the inlet valve for any physical damage or clogs.
7. Inspect for anything wrapped around or obstructing.
8. Then connect the inlet valve and water supply line back. 
9. Test whether the GE dishwasher will start spraying water.

Note: It’s extremely important to make sure that water reaches the GE dishwasher!

2. Inspect The Dishwasher Spray Arm

The Spray arms are the primary utility that sprays water throughout the dishes, but over time, their nozzles or arms get blocked because of debris accumulation.

That prevents the water from spraying out, so the solution is to perform a thorough cleaning.

Alert: Turn off the power before doing any repair or inspection on the appliance!

Here is how to inspect the GE dishwasher spray arms:

1. Open the dishwasher and take out all the racks.
2. Rotate each of the spray arms to eject them.
3. Info: There are top, center, and bottom spray arms.
4. Wash the spray arms and scrub them using a soft brush.
5. Soak the arms in white vinegar and water for about 5 minutes.
6. Then clean the arms hole evenly using a toothpick.
7. Rinse the arms to clear all the accumulated dirt from the arms.
8. Fix the spray arms back to their place and turn on the power.
9. Run a wash cycle on the dishwasher to test the appliance.

Important: Also, check the spray arms mounting brackets since when the brackets are loosely connected, the spray arms will not use the full water pressure.

3. Clean The Dishwasher Filter

Cleaning the GE dishwasher is important because when there is a blockage, it will restrict the water from reaching out to the spray arms.

However, it is very important to clean the filter regularly to avoid such troubles!

Here is how to clean the GE dishwasher filter:

1. Switch off your unit’s power and water valve.
2. Open the dishwasher front facing the door.
3. Take out the lower rack from the dishwasher.
4. Hold down the lower spray and take it out.
5. Rotate the filter counterclockwise to eject.
6. Wash the filter under running water.
7. Soak the filter in a liquid mix of soapy water.
8. Let the filter soak for about 15 minutes.
9. Scrub the filter using an old toothbrush.

Alert: Be gentle with the filter to avoid damaging the component.

4. Check The Dishwasher Pump

Like other components, the dishwasher water pump may eventually develop defects or get obstructed.

Your dishwasher’s pump can be malfunctioning, and that’s why it’s unable to circulate water to the spray arms the only audible approach is to inspect the pump!

Here is how to check the dishwasher pump:

1. Unscrew the GE dishwasher bottom panel.
2. Locate the water pump in the appliance.
3. Check for physical defects or debris on the pump.
4. Unclog the obstruction or clogs from the pump.
5. Then turn on the power and run a cycle to test.
6. Optional: Test the pump with Multimiter for Continuity.

If after checking the dishwasher pump, the unit does not spray water, then check the motor!

5. Inspect & Clean The Inlet Hose

It is crucial to check the dishwasher for leaks and ensure that the hose connections are tightly secured.

If the hose connection is loose or defective and there are leaks, it will prevent the water from reaching the arms, hence the dishwasher won’t spray.

Here is how to check the GE dishwasher inlet hose connection:

1. Disconnect the machine from the power and locate the inlet hose.
2. Disconnect it from the back of the dishwasher and the sink or disposal.
3. Run warm water inside the hose to soften the accumulation of dirt.
4. Then scrub inside the hose to remove the build-up layers.
5. Wash away the dirt from the hose with running warm water.
6. Connect the hose back to the dishwasher and turn on the power.

Note: The inlet hose shouldn’t be used in a bad condition, so we strongly recommend replacing the component if you’ve discovered any damage.

6. Test The Dishwasher Motor

If the spraying issue continues after the inspection so far, then the motor has to be tested.

Similar to a pump, a motor also uses a pump to circulate water for spraying arms hence the reason why the arms are not spraying could be replated.

Here is how to check the GE dishwasher motor:

1. Unplug the device from the power outlet.
2. Unscrew the unit’s lower front panel.
3. Check for clogs or any physical defect on the motor.
4. If there is any obstruction, clear them away. 
5. Connect the Multimeter probes with the motor.

If the multimeter shows a reading, the motor is fine but if there is no reading, the dishwasher needs servicing.

The best possible approach would be to check your warranty!

7. Run A Dishwasher Cleaner

The final step will help you solve the issue by using a dishwasher cleaner since, if everything is in functioning condition, some other components may be involved.

Anything that can be preventing the water from flowing in the dishwasher has to be inspected so follow the steps: 

1. Remove dishes from the GE dishwasher.
2. Locate the detergent dispenser in the machine.
3. Insert the dishwasher cleaner into the dispenser.
4. It’s important to fully close the dishwasher door.
5. Select the hottest temperature settings.
6. Run a wash cycle on the GE dishwasher.

Wait until the cycle ends, then open the dishwasher door and try to clean the remaining residue using a cloth. If the dishwasher still doesn’t spray water after trying all the troubleshooting methods described in the guide, seek expert help. 

Tip: It is preferable to call GE Support for expert repair as well as to claim your warranty!

Quick Recap:

Whenever your GE dishwasher not spraying water, check the water supply and be sure that the inlet valve is turned on.

Then clean the spray arms, filters, and inlet hoses before performing an inspection on the dishwasher’s motor and pump.