GE Dishwasher FTD Code: 5 Ways To Get Rid Of It

Don’t worry, that error glaring at you from your washer isn’t spelling its immediate doom – if anything, it’s just a small issue that’ll take some manual work to fix.

So, What does FTD mean on GE dishwasher? It means failure to drain, indicating your washer’s difficulty in releasing water. 

GE dishwasher FTD code is usually caused by clogged filters, drain hoses, incorrect detergent use, installation errors and sometimes a faulty pressure sensor. You can fix the issue by cleaning and adjusting the affected parts.

In this post, I’ll delve deeper into these causes and give you some quick rundowns of the fixes. Keep reading to learn more!

What Can Cause GE Dishwasher FTD Code

Now, let’s start with the causes first.

Blockages in Filters and Sump

Inside your dishwasher, there are filters and a sump area at the bottom. 

Sometimes, debris, food particles, or foreign objects find their way in there, causing a blockage. 

When these parts are clogged, water struggles to find its way out, resulting in drainage issues.

Drain Hose Issues

If the drain hose of your washer is bent, twisted, or blocked, the water faces obstacles on its way out. 

Ensuring the hose is free of kinks or clogs is crucial; otherwise, your dishwasher can’t drain properly. 

The other parts of the plumbing, such as the kitchen sink and disposer malfunctioning can also lead to the FTD or F56 code.

Wrong Use Of Detergents

Using the right detergent is more important than you might think. 

Too much or the wrong type of detergent creates excessive suds, akin to a bubble bath for your dishes. 

But these bubbles aren’t fun; they hinder the draining process, leaving you with a dishwasher full of soapy water instead of clean dishes.

Installation Errors

If installation isn’t done correctly, problems are bound to arise. 

Missing components like an air gap or incorrectly placed drain hoses can disrupt the drainage system. 

Portable Dishwashers With Unicouple

Now, for portable dishwashers using a unicouple, drainage can sometimes pose unique challenges. 

Due to their design, it’s best to have a professional take a look. 

They can identify specific issues related to this setup, ensuring your portable dishwasher drains as it should.

GE Dishwasher FTD Code Fix

Let’s get down to the solutions you need to try:

Cleaning The Filters

Out of all the others, this is the DIY fix that’s going to take the most time, though it’s still pretty easy. Let’s get to it. 

1. Remove the bottom rack.
2. Clear any debris from the sump, like food particles or objects.
3. Do a basic cleaning of the water filter.
4. Twist and lift the ultra-fine filter counterclockwise to remove.
5. Rinse with warm soapy water; avoid scouring pads.
6. Dip the filter in white vinegar for 10-20 minutes for stains or smells.
7. Insert the ultra-fine filter back and twist clockwise to lock.
8. Remove the fine filter by twisting the retaining posts counterclockwise.
9. Rinse with warm soapy water or soak in white vinegar for 20-30 minutes.

Resolving Drain Hose Issues 

Here’s how you can take care of any direct plumbing issues with the dishwasher:

1. Examine the drain hose for bends, twists, or visible blocks. 
2. Straighten out any kinks and ensure the hose is free from obstructions.
3. Ensure the drain hose is correctly connected to the plumbing system. 
4. Verify that the kitchen sink and disposer are functioning correctly, as issues here can impact drainage.
5. You may also disconnect the hoses temporarily and run water through them to check for blockages. Remove any debris by flushing the hoses with water.

 Using The Right Detergents

Well, this one’s obvious – just watch what you’re using. I’ll hand in some extra tips anyway.

1. If excess suds are present, run a rinse cycle without detergent. This helps clear out residual suds and ensures proper drainage.
2. Use GE recommended dishwasher detergents such as Cascade® Platinum™ ActionPacs™ and Finish® Quantum® detergents.
3. Avoid using too much detergent.

Ensuring Proper Installation

Even if you’re not a dishwasher expert, you can do a couple of things to make sure your dishwasher’s been set right:

1. Refer to the GE dishwasher installation manual to ensure all components are correctly placed. Identify any missing components and rectify the installation.
2. If your dishwasher has an air gap, make sure it’s correctly installed. Clean it to prevent blockages that may affect drainage.

Fixing A Unicouple Arrangement

This one’s pretty quick, and it’s one of the less likely reasons you’re seeing that Failure To Drain code.

1. Inspect the setup. Ensure the unicouple is firmly connected to the faucet.
2. Confirm your dishwasher sits level. Adjust if it’s tilted, as it can mess with the drainage.
3. Run the test mode and see if the code still appears. If it does, consider hiring a professional to take care of it.

GE Dishwasher Showing FTD Error But Draining Fine

If your GE dishwasher is showing the “FTD” (Failure to Drain) code, but you’ve confirmed that it’s draining properly, you might need to address a potential issue with the pressure sensor. 

You’ll need to clean it. Here’s how to do it:

1. Power off and disconnect the dishwasher.
2. Unthread toe kick screws, set aside.
3. Use channel lock pliers to disconnect the water supply line elbow and 5/16 drill driver for the junction box cover.
4. Untwist wire nuts and disconnect the drain hose.
5. Unthread the mounting screw, adjust the legs, and lay the dishwasher on its back.
6. Unplug the harness from the pressure sensor, lift the tab, and twist it counterclockwise to release it.
7. Examine the sensor for any debris or clogs. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean it thoroughly.
8. Plug the harness back into the pressure sensor.
9. Twist the sensor clockwise to lock it in place.
10. Secure the wires and strain relief nut in the junction box.
11. Reconnect the water supply line fitting to the inlet valve.
12. Set the toe kick into place and secure it with the screws.
13. Reconnect the dishwasher to the power and water supply.
14. Power on the dishwasher and check if the “FTD” error persists during a wash cycle.

FAQs

How do I force my GE dishwasher to drain? 

To force a GE dishwasher to drain, first, check for pipe blockages under the sink. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher, and then turn it back on. This ensures a proper flow of water. If the dishwasher hasn’t drained, open the door and allow it to run. Some models just need a 3-4 second press of the start button to kickstart draining. 

How to prevent FTD error in your GE dishwasher?

That’s simple; clean the filter regularly and check for any damage in the water inlet valve. 

Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the FTD error code?

In some cases, resetting can clear the FTD error if it’s a software glitch.

What is a common problem with GE dishwashers? 

A common issue with GE dishwashers, besides drainage problems, is the H20 error linked to water supply issues. It’s often caused by blockages in the water supply line or a faulty water inlet valve. 

Final Thoughts

The error should be gone at this point. If your efforts don’t do the trick though, don’t sweat it. 

Consider passing the torch to the pros. A technician might be able to take a much closer look at the plumbing. 

Either way, good luck with getting your washer fixed, and remember to keep the aforementioned parts clean so you don’t have to face that error again!