GE · Dishwasher

F2

Stuck Drain

Severity

High

If your GE Dishwasher is displaying the error code F2, the control board has detected a fault identified as "Stuck Drain". Understanding the root cause helps you avoid an unnecessary service call.

Owner's Summary

Your GE dishwasher has standing water at the bottom after the cycle. Cleaning the filter at the bottom of the tub is the free first step — it takes 5 minutes and resolves the majority of F2 errors.

Symptoms

GE dishwasher leaving water in bottom of tub after cycle, F2 error

Common Causes

Clogged filter screen and sump
Drain hose blocked or kinked
Garbage disposal connection blocked
Drain pump impeller jammed

How to Fix

1 Clean the filter and screen in the sump area
2 Check and straighten drain hose
3 Check garbage disposal connection
4 Test drain pump motor continuity and replace if failed

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Pliers Soft Brush Towels / Bucket

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

GE's control board monitors the drain pump run time and turbidity sensor. F2 is triggered when the drain cycle does not produce a clean-water sensor reading or low-level pressure switch signal within the maximum drain window.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Fix the same day. Standing water creates bacteria and blocks future cycles.

Technician's Pro Tip

GE dishwashers with a built-in food disposer — a grinding mechanism under the filter — can jam on olive pits, fruit seeds or broken glass. If the drain pump runs but water remains, check the disposer grinder for jammed debris.

Related Codes

E11 — GE Washing Machine

Water Fill Issue

High

E21 — GE Washing Machine

Slow Drain or Drain Fault

High

E31 — GE Washing Machine

Pressure Sensor Fault

Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code F2 mean on a GE Dishwasher?

Code F2 on a GE Dishwasher indicates "Stuck Drain." In practice, the most common trigger is clogged filter screen and sump. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $180.

Can I fix F2 myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of F2 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: clean the filter and screen in the sump area. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code F2 showing?

Fix the same day. Standing water creates bacteria and blocks future cycles.

How much does it cost to repair F2 on a GE Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code F2 typically range from $0 to $180. Filter cleaning: $0; Drain pump: $50–$180 + labor. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$0 – $180

Filter cleaning: $0; Drain pump: $50–$180 + labor