GE Appliances dishwasher C1: drain timeout
C1 means: Drain pump timeout: the pump ran more than 2 minutes without draining (older models: stuck key).
How to fix C1
- Remove the lower rack and clean the filter and sump; pull out food debris and glass.
- Check the drain hose under the sink for a kink and, if a disposal was fitted recently, that its knockout plug was removed.
- Cut power for 60 seconds at the breaker to reset and run a drain-only cycle.
- If it still will not drain, the drain pump impeller is jammed or the pump has failed; it is accessible from inside the tub on most models.
When to stop and call a repairer
If water is leaking under the machine, stop and find the leak first.
What it costs
Parts: Drain pump $40 to $80.
Service: A home visit from an appliance technician runs $120 to $250 for diagnosis plus the part. Boards are the expensive part; sensors and switches are cheap.
Worth repairing? Yes.
How to check the error log
On most GE dishwashers, hold Start for 5 seconds with the door open to enter the service menu; on models with a hidden display, press Select Cycle and Start together for 5 seconds. The last error shows on the display. Turn power off at the breaker for 60 seconds to reset the board.
Clear the log after a repair so you can tell whether the fault has really gone.
FAQ
What does C1 mean on the GE Appliances dishwasher?
Drain pump timeout: the pump ran more than 2 minutes without draining (older models: stuck key). The dishwasher tried to pump out and the water did not go. Clogged filter, a blocked or kinked drain hose, a new garbage disposal with the knockout plug still in, or a drain pump that has failed.
Can I fix C1 myself?
DIY difficulty: easy. Remove the lower rack and clean the filter and sump; pull out food debris and glass. Check the drain hose under the sink for a kink and, if a disposal was fitted recently, that its knockout plug was removed.
How much does it cost to fix C1?
Drain pump $40 to $80. A home visit from an appliance technician runs $120 to $250 for diagnosis plus the part. Boards are the expensive part; sensors and switches are cheap.
Is it worth repairing?
Yes.
Code meanings are compiled from manufacturer service references and repair documentation for the GDT / GDF / GDP / Profile / Cafe; fixes follow documented repairs and owner reports. Model revisions can differ. If your appliance is under warranty, contact the manufacturer before opening it.