How To Clean A GE Dishwasher Filter

We’d all be lost without our kitchen appliances and in recent years, the dishwasher has become an integral part of many kitchens. We count on the dishwasher to keep our dishes sparkling clean. The dishwasher’s filter plays an integral role in keeping our dishes clean.

All dishwashers have a filter which helps prevent waste food from blocking the drain. The GE dishwasher typically has 2 filters which are known as the fine and ultra-fine filters. These need to be cleaned every so often to ensure they are working correctly.

We recommend cleaning the filters on your GE dishwasher every 4 to 6 weeks or whenever your dishes are feeling gritty or are coming out of the dishwasher not fully clean.

To clean the filters in your GE dishwasher follow our simple step by step guide.

How To Clean The Filters In A GE Dishwasher

The following should be performed every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure your GE dishwasher is operating at its best. You will need a soft bristled brush, a soft lint-free cloth, warm water and detergent. 

1. Locate the filters
   To find the filters you will need to remove the bottom rack and then look for a large grill like object with a circular plastic object in the centre of it, this is the ultra-fine filter,  the fine filter is the large grill.
2. Remove the filters
   Turn the ultra-fine filter anti-clockwise to remove it from the appliance. Then remove the fine filter by turning the two retaining posts anti-clockwise. They will be at the back bottom of the dishwasher, on some models there are no retaining posts, the fine filter just sits on the surface and is held in place with the ultra-fine filter. If this is the case, simply remove the fine filter from the machine.
3. Wash the filters
   Remove as much of the dirt and debris from the ultra-fine filter as you can and then rinse it under warm water. Do the same with the fine filter.
4. Soak the filters
   Now soak both filters in a bowl of warm water and detergent for 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Remove stubborn debris
   After the 10 minute soak in the warm water and detergent, any debris left in the filters can be removed using a soft bristled brush. Gently remove all of the debris  from the ultra-fine filter and then repeat on the fine filter.
6. Rinse the filters
   Once all of the debris has been removed, rinse both filters under running water and double check for any remaining limescale deposits etc.
7. Dry the filters
   Using a soft lint-free cloth or towel, pat dry both of the filters.
8. Clean the filter housing
   Using the soft cloth and cleaning solution which you soaked the filters in, gently wipe around the filter housing to keep the filters cleaner for longer and also reduce any mould or mildew growth.
9. Replace the filters
   Place the fine filter back into position and turn the retaining posts clockwise to lock into position (if applicable). Then place the ultra-fine filter into position and turn clockwise to lock into position.

If you notice the filter(s) are damaged, they will need to be replaced. You can contact GE directly by following this link, telephoning this number 01603 412324 or you can buy spare parts online.

How To Deep Clean Your GE Dishwasher

It’s not just the filters which can get dirty, the whole dishwasher should be cleaned on a regular basis. We recommend treating your GE dishwasher to a deep clean at least twice a year. This will help to prevent it from breaking down due to a buildup of grease, food particles and limescale.

To deep clean your GE dishwasher simply do the following;

1. Remove any dishes etc from your dishwasher.
2. Using a soft lint-free cloth, wipe down the interior of the dishwasher including the top, sides and bottom of the interior.
3. Place a cup of white vinegar on the bottom rack of the dishwasher.
4. Run a hot wash cycle but cancel the drying cycle
5. Remove the cup and pour a cupful of baking soda spread all over the floor of the dishwasher.
6. Run another hot wash cycle.
7. When it’s finished, clean the inside of the door with dishwasher cleaner, pay particular attention to the rubber door seal as this is where mould and mildew can form.

Never mix the vinegar and baking soda, ensure they are used at different times and separate wash cycles. If vinegar and baking soda mix together, they can cause a foam which is hard to remove.

How To Prevent Your GE Dishwasher From Smelling Bad

There are several reasons that can cause a dishwasher to smell bad. They include;

• Clogged filter(s)
  If the filter or filters are clogged, the dishwasher will eventually begin to smell bad. You should ensure the filter(s) are regularly cleaned.
• Dirty rubber door seal
  Over time, the rubber door seal can become dirty, mouldy or covered in mildew. To prevent this wipe the door seal down regularly with a clean cloth and soapy water.
• Black mould growth
  If you use your dishwasher infrequently, it can become infested with black mould. The airborne spores collect and breed in damp dark places. To prevent mould growth, wash the interior of the dishwasher regularly and leave the door open slightly to allow it to dry out after each use.
• Blocked spray arms
  If the spray arms become blocked, not enough water can pass through the dishwasher to thoroughly clean the dishes or the interior of the appliance. Ensure the spray arms are clear and spraying sufficient water by using a toothpick to gently unblock the small jets.

Frequently Asked Questions