Appointment Lookup
646-440-2692
GE dishwasher detergent not dispensing
Common reasons your GE dishwasher detergent is not dispensing
The most common reasons your GE dishwasher detergent is not dispensing are a broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a clogged water valve.
46% of the time it's the Detergent Dispenser
31% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
13% of the time it's the Water Valve
10% of the time it's the Something else
Schedule your dishwasher repair now!
We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 150,000 GE dishwashers. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.
Most common repairs needed to fix a GE dishwasher
Detergent Dispenser Replacement
If the detergent dispenser is not dispensing detergent and/or rinse aid during the cycle, a broken dispenser assembly may be causing the problem. Most detergent dispensers have internal switches along with latches and other components to dispense detergent and rinse aid at the proper times during the cycle. Because it’s hard to tell whether a broken dispenser is causing the problem, have a Sears Home Services Repair Technician examine your dishwasher and replace the detergent dispenser if it’s broken.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
When the dishwasher detergent is not dispensing, a defective electronic control board could be causing the problem. Internal logic and relays in the electronic control board send electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser to open the lid latch and dispense the detergent. Corrupted internal logic or failed relays in the electronic control board could keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert examine the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it’s defective.
Water Valve Replacement
When the detergent dispenser isn’t working, it could have an internal failure preventing it from opening. An internal switch in the detergent dispenser releases the dispenser latch so a spring snaps the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, bad switch or defective latch can keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser when it isn’t working.
What to expect when you experience a GE dishwasher detergent not dispensing issue
How is the detergent not dispensing problem fixed?
Correcting most detergent not dispensing problems usually involves replacing the detergent dispenser, electronic control board or water valve. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.
Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher detergent that is not dispensing
When the dishwasher detergent is not dispensing it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.
What to look out for with a dishwasher detergent not dispensing diagnosis
Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.
If your GE dishwasher never releases soap, broken dispenser latches or solenoids may prevent detergent flow. Dishes won’t come out clean without the right soap distribution. Rather than rinsing everything again, consider a dishwasher repair service near me. With the dispenser fixed, your dishwasher can work its cleansing magic effectively.
What our customers say about us
With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it
Thorough
James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Repair Dishwasher Resources
Learn how to drain a GE dishwasher with our step-by-step guide. Keep your dishwasher running smoothly with our expert tips.
Find out why your dishwasher won’t turn on and get expert tips from Sears Home Services to fix the problem.
If you've ever encountered a dishwasher with standing water, you understand the frustration of a drainage issue.
If the dishes in your dishwasher are no longer getting clean, it could be the spray arm is clogged.
Glossary Terms
A dishwasher impeller is a rotating component within the dishwasher's pump that circulates water throughout the unit during a wash cycle, ensuring efficient cleaning by spraying water at high pressure.
A dishwasher sump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, serving as a collection point for water during the wash cycle. It houses the main pump and filter, facilitating the recirculation and drainage of water, essential for the cleaning process.
A dishwasher turbidity sensor is an advanced feature that measures the level of food particles and debris in the water, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the wash cycle length and water usage for optimal cleaning efficiency.
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.