If your GE dishwasher will not start, the cause is usually simple: no power, a door issue, a locked control panel, or a failed part. This guide walks through quick checks, reset steps, and the components that most often stop a GE dishwasher from starting.
1. Quick checks before you reset
Before you open the control panel or order parts, confirm the basics:
1. Check power supply
- Make sure the dishwasher’s plug is fully inserted into the outlet.
- Test the outlet with another small appliance.
- Check your home’s breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker for the dishwasher circuit.
2. Confirm the door is fully closed
- Close the door firmly until you hear or feel the latch click.
- Make sure no dish or utensil is blocking the door from sealing.
3. Look for Control Lock / Child Lock
- Many GE models have a lock icon or “Control Lock” light.
- If lit, hold the corresponding button (often 3–5 seconds) to unlock the controls.
- Try starting a cycle again.
4. Cancel Delay Start
- If Delay Start is active, the dishwasher will not run immediately.
- Press the Delay button until the delay is off, or cancel the program and choose a new cycle.
If the dishwasher still won’t start after these checks, move on to reset steps.
2. How to reset a GE dishwasher
Resetting the control board can clear glitches that prevent the dishwasher from starting.
Soft reset (via control panel)
- Cancel the current cycle
- Press and hold the Start/Reset or Cancel button until the indicator lights change or turn off.
- Wait 2–5 minutes
- Let the dishwasher drain or finish its internal reset.
- Select a new cycle and press Start
- Close the door firmly and see if the unit starts normally.
Hard reset (power cycle)
If a soft reset doesn’t help:
- Turn off power at the breaker
- Locate the dishwasher breaker and switch it OFF.
- Wait at least 5 minutes
- This discharges the control board and clears temporary faults.
- Turn the breaker back ON
- Restore power to the dishwasher.
- Set a cycle and try to start
- If it now runs, the issue was likely a minor control glitch.
If the dishwasher still will not start after both reset methods, you may be dealing with a failed component.
3. When a reset is not enough: common part failures
Below are parts that commonly stop a GE dishwasher from starting. Diagnosing and replacing many of these components requires tools and basic electrical safety knowledge.
3.1 Door latch and door switch
If the control board thinks the door is open, it will block the start command.
Typical symptoms:
- Lights respond, but nothing happens when you press Start.
- You must push or lift the door to make it briefly start.
Possible issues:
- Worn or broken latch mechanism
- Defective door switch that doesn’t send the “door closed” signal
In most cases, the latch assembly or door switch needs testing with a multimeter and replacement if faulty.
3.2 Thermal fuse
The thermal fuse protects the dishwasher from overheating. If it blows, the control board may lose power.
Typical symptoms:
- Control panel is dark and unresponsive
- No operation at all, even with a good breaker and outlet
A blown thermal fuse must be replaced; it cannot be reset. Often it is mounted near the control board.
3.3 Main control board or user interface (UI)
Control boards process button presses and send power to motors, valves, and heaters.
Typical symptoms:
- Random beeps or lights with no start
- Buttons do not respond or respond inconsistently
- Dishwasher loses power mid-cycle and never comes back properly
Sometimes only the touchpad or UI is faulty; other times the main control board fails. Proper diagnosis can involve checking power to the board, continuity on key circuits, and error codes (if available on your model).
3.4 Float switch
The float switch monitors water level. If stuck in the “full” position, the dishwasher may refuse to start a new cycle.
Typical symptoms:
- Dishwasher drained correctly last time but will not start a new wash
- Reset steps do not help, but you hear no filling attempt at all
Debris or mineral buildup can jam the float. Cleaning may help, but a defective switch often needs replacement.
3.5 Start relay or other start circuitry
Some GE dishwashers use a start relay or similar component to send power to the motor or main systems.
Typical symptoms:
- You hear a click when pressing Start, but nothing else happens
- Reset and door checks are fine, but the motor never kicks on
A failed relay or related component requires electrical testing and replacement.
4. When to call a professional
If you have confirmed power, reset the unit, and the dishwasher still will not start, it is safer and often cheaper long-term to involve a technician. Professional repair helps in cases such as:
- Repeated breaker trips when starting the dishwasher
- Burning smells, visible scorching, or melted wiring
- Suspected control board, thermal fuse, or wiring harness damage
- The unit starts only intermittently or shuts off mid-cycle
For expert service in New York City, you can schedule ge dishwasher repair and have a technician diagnose the exact failure, replace faulty parts, and test the dishwasher under load.