GE Dishwasher Low Rinse Aid Light Stays On: 4 Ways To Shut Off

A GE Rinse Aid dispenser should last you a whole month without triggering any warnings, as it can hold a substantial 3.5 ounces of rinse agent. 

Yet, despite your efforts, does the light stubbornly continue its glow?

The GE dishwasher’s low rinse aid light may stay on due to a clogged dispenser, wrong settings, potential leaks, or confusion with the lock light. To fix, clean the dispenser, fix the settings, and ensure proper filing. Leaks can be sealed for small cracks, though major damage may need a pro’s help.

Keep reading to learn how to fix the leaks and all the other issues I mentioned!

Reasons Why GE Dishwasher Low Rinse Aid Light Stays On

Here are the main reasons for the light staying on even after filling with rinse agent:

Reason 1: Clogged or Damaged Dispenser

One common reason for the persistent glow of the low rinse aid light is a clogged or damaged dispenser. 

Sometimes, using the wrong product—like blue dish soap—can cause clogs, preventing proper dispensing of the rinse aid.

Reason 2: Incorrect Rinse Aid Setting

Many dishwasher models feature an adjustable rinse aid setting. 

Turning the adjuster clockwise increases the amount of rinse aid dispensed, while counterclockwise reduces it. 

If the setting is too low, your dishwasher might signal low rinse aid even when it’s full, leading to the persistent light.

Reason 3: Potential Leaks or Faulty Seals

Keep an eye out for leaks around the dispenser. Frequent refills could indicate a leak or a faulty seal. 

When the rinse aid leaks out, the sensor might not register the refill properly, causing the light to stay on despite your efforts to keep it filled.

Reason 4: Mistaking the Lock Light for the Rinse Aid Light

Sometimes, the issue might not even be related to the rinse aid dispenser. 

Many users confuse the lock light with the rinse aid indicator.

Solution To Low Rinse Aid Light On GE Dishwasher Even After Filling

Let’s get down to the fixes now:

Solution 1: Fixing A Clogged Dispenser

1. Gather a generous amount of white vinegar; nearly a quart should suffice.
2. Carefully pour the white vinegar into the rinse aid compartment, allowing it to fill to the brim. Do not replace the cap at this stage.
3. Slowly raise the dishwasher door, enabling the vinegar to drain into the lower section of the chamber. This step helps dislodge any clogs obstructing the dispenser’s proper function.
4. Shake the dishwasher door vigorously up and down to agitate the vinegar within the compartment. 
5. Use a small plastic dropper to introduce air into the openings on both sides of the rinse aid compartment, enhancing the cleansing action.
6. Close the dishwasher door to facilitate the drainage of vinegar into the dishwasher’s bottom. 
7. Repeat the process several times to ensure thorough cleansing. Refill the compartment with vinegar, let it sit, drain, and repeat.
8. Flush the compartment by pouring hot tap water alternated with white vinegar. This dual-action flush further clears any lingering residue, ensuring a spotless rinse aid system.
9. Continue the process until the liquid draining from the compartment is crystal clear, indicating the removal of all clogs and soap residues.
10. Run the dishwasher without adding any rinse aid. This will ensure the rinse aid compartment is entirely clean and ready for use.

Solution 2: Properly Set Rinse Aid Setting

Your washer might simply be wasting a lot of the rinse aid due to a bad setting. Follow these steps to fix:

1. Find the rinse aid adjuster in your dishwasher. It’s usually a small dial or switch located near the rinse aid compartment.
2. Turn the adjuster clockwise to increase rinse aid and counterclockwise to decrease. Experiment to find the setting that prevents the low rinse aid warning.
3. Run tests and watch your dishwasher’s performance. Adjust the setting slightly till the rinse aid lasts a full cycle without triggering the warning light.

Solution 3: Fixing Leaks or Faulty Seals

These are rarer, but can still be a cause of your low rinse aid light staying on:

1. Take a close look at your dishwasher’s rinse aid compartment and seals. 
2. Clean the area thoroughly. Get rid of any gunk or residue around the leak. It needs to be squeaky clean for the repair to work.
3. Now, grab a dishwasher-safe sealant. Apply it generously over the cracks or gaps you found. Don’t hold back; it’s better to overdo it a bit than to miss a spot.
4. If the leak is because of loose components, grab a tool and gently tighten them. 
5. Give it time to set. Follow the sealant’s instructions – it usually takes a few hours.
6. If the cracks are substantial though, or if you’ve got an old GE washer, it’s better to get the dispenser swapped out for a new one.

Solution 4: Turning Off The Lock Light

You probably already know this, but I’ll add in some quick steps just in case. Here are some ways to turn off lock mode in GE dishwashers:

• Press and Hold the Control Lock Button

1. Look for a button labeled with a lock symbol on the control panel.
2. Press and hold for 3-5 seconds until the lock indicator light turns off.

• Double Press Same Location

1. On some models, double-press a specific area within 3 seconds to unlock.
2. For example, press twice above the china-crystal cycle pad.

• Hold Down “Rinse Only” or “No Heat Dry” Keypad

1. Hold down the “Rinse Only” or “No Heat Dry” keypad for 3-8 seconds to lock the controls.
2. To unlock, repeat the process and wait for the beep and light to go off.

FAQs

Can no rinse aid stop the dishwasher from working?

No, your dishwasher will still work without rinse aid. However, it enhances drying and prevents water spots.

How often should you replace rinse aid in GE dishwashers?

Refill the rinse aid compartment when the indicator light signals low levels, usually every 1-2 months depending on usage.

How to fill rinse aid in ge dishwasher?

Open the rinse aid compartment cover, pour rinse aid until full (but not overfilled), and close the cover. Follow your dishwasher manual for specifics.

Do dishwashers need salt and rinse aid?

Not all dishwashers require salt. And rinse aid, while optional, improves drying and overall dishwasher performance, especially in hard water areas.

Final Thoughts

That should make the light go off and stop bugging you. 

Just remember to follow the tips I’ve provided throughout the steps and watch how much Rinse Aid you put into the dispenser, as well as how much you use. 

That way, you’ll definitely last well over a month.

Anyways, that’s about it. Good luck with turning that annoying light off!