FED on Dishwasher

GE Dishwasher FED Error Code: Causes, Fixes, and Prevention

The FED error code on a GE dishwasher signals “Flood Error Detection” the machine has detected too much water in the base or tub, or it can’t properly manage water levels. This safety feature stops the dishwasher to prevent leaks, flooding, or damage to your kitchen floor and cabinets.

When the FED code appears, the dishwasher typically beeps repeatedly, displays “FED” on the control panel, and refuses to start new cycles until the issue is resolved. This guide covers the most common causes, step-by-step troubleshooting, and when to call a professional.

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What the FED Error Code Means

The FED code activates when the dishwasher’s water level sensors detect:

• Excess water pooling in the base or sump area
• Improper drainage leaving standing water after cycles
• Faulty water level detection from a stuck or broken float switch

This is GE’s built-in flood protection system working as designed. The good news? Most FED errors are fixable with basic maintenance rather than expensive repairs.

Common Causes of GE Dishwasher FED Error

1. Excess Water in the Base (Most Common)

Water has leaked into the dishwasher’s base pan due to:

• A clogged drain or sump filter preventing proper drainage
• A kinked or blocked drain hose
• Standing water from an interrupted previous cycle

2. Faulty or Stuck Float Switch

The float switch (a plastic assembly in the front left corner of the tub floor) monitors water levels. When stuck or broken, it falsely signals “too much water” even when levels are normal.

3. Blocked Drain Pump or Impeller

Debris, glass shards, or food buildup in the drain pump prevents water from pumping out completely, triggering the flood detection.

4. Air Gap or Garbage Disposal Issues

If your dishwasher drains through an air gap or garbage disposal:

• A clogged air gap blocks drainage
• The garbage disposal knockout plug was never removed
• The disposal needs to be run to clear dishwasher water

5. Over-Sudsing from Wrong Detergent

Excess foam from dish soap (instead of dishwasher detergent) can confuse water level sensors and mimic a “flood” condition.

Step-by-Step Fixes for GE Dishwasher FED Error

Step 1: Drain Excess Water from the Base

Tools needed: Screwdriver, towels, shallow pan

1. Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker
2. Pull the dishwasher out from the cabinet (most models slide forward after removing 2-3 screws at the countertop)
3. Tilt forward at a 45-degree angle over towels or a drain pan to pour out collected water from the base
4. Wipe dry the base area and sump with towels
5. Push back into place and restore power

Run a short rinse cycle with no dishes to test drainage.

Step 2: Clear the Drain System

Check these areas in order:

1. Sump filter (bottom of tub, under lower spray arm):
   • Twist counterclockwise and lift out
   • Rinse under hot water, remove debris
   • Reinstall securely
2. Drain hose (under sink or behind dishwasher):
   • Disconnect from sink drain/garbage disposal
   • Run water through with garden hose to flush
   • Check for kinks or sharp bends
3. Air gap (countertop fixture, if present):
   • Remove cap, clean inside with brush
   • Clear debris from drain ports
4. Garbage disposal connection:
   • Run disposal with hot water for 30 seconds
   • Ensure knockout plug was removed during installation

Step 3: Test and Clean the Float Switch

The float switch lives in the front left corner of the dishwasher tub floor under a plastic dome cover.

1. Remove lower rack
2. Lift plastic dome (float cover) — it pops off or twists
3. Inspect float assembly — lift up and down smoothly?
4. Clean around base — remove food debris or soap scum
5. Reassemble and test

If the float sticks or feels broken, it needs replacement (inexpensive part).

Step 4: Reset the Dishwasher

After clearing water and debris:

1. Press and hold Start/Reset for 3-5 seconds
2. Close door and wait 2 minutes for drain/reset cycle
3. Select Normal cycle and press Start
4. Listen for normal operation — no beeps or FED code

If the error returns immediately, proceed to advanced troubleshooting.

Step 5: Check Drain Pump (Advanced)

Warning: Unplug power before accessing pump.

1. Remove lower rack and spray arm
2. Access pump cover/filter at tub bottom
3. Spin impeller by hand should rotate freely
4. Listen for humming during drain cycle (sign of motor strain)

A blocked or failed pump usually requires professional replacement.

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Quick Fixes That Solve 80% of FED Errors

Problem	Fix	Time Required
Water in base	Tilt and drain	15 minutes
Clogged sump filter	Clean and reinstall	5 minutes
Air gap blocked	Clean ports	3 minutes
Stuck float switch	Clean/lubricate	10 minutes
Drain hose kinked	Straighten/reposition	5 minutes

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When the FED Error Won’t Clear

If basic cleaning doesn’t resolve the FED code, suspect these components:

Faulty Float Switch

• Float moves but control still detects “flood”
• Fix: Replace assembly (~$20-40 part)

Failed Drain Pump

• Humming sound but no water movement
• Fix: Professional replacement (~$150-250 with labor)

Wiring or Control Board Issue

• Error persists after all mechanical fixes
• Fix: Technician diagnosis required

Leaking Door Gasket or Tub

• Chronic water accumulation from internal leaks
• Fix: Gasket replacement or tub repair

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Prevention Tips: Avoid Future FED Errors

1. Clean sump filter monthly — prevents 90% of drainage issues
2. Run disposal before dishwasher — clears food debris
3. Use only dishwasher detergent — prevents foam confusion
4. Check air gap weekly — keeps drain path clear
5. Annual base inspection — catch small leaks early

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GE Dishwasher FED Error FAQs

What does FED mean on my GE dishwasher?
FED stands for “Flood Error Detection.” The dishwasher senses too much water in the base or can’t drain properly, triggering a safety shutdown.

Can I still use my dishwasher with a FED error?
No. The unit locks out until the water level issue is resolved to prevent flooding your kitchen.

How do I drain water from under my GE dishwasher?
Unplug, pull out from cabinet, tilt forward over towels/pan. Most water drains in 1-2 minutes.

Will a FED error clear by itself?
Sometimes after a power cycle, but usually requires manual draining and cleaning first.

Is the FED error covered under warranty?
Yes, if caused by a defective float switch or drain pump. Clogs from normal use typically aren’t covered.

How much does it cost to fix a GE dishwasher FED error?
DIY fixes: $0-40 (cleaning/parts). Professional service: $150-350 depending on pump/control board replacement.

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Bottom line: The GE FED error is usually just trapped water or a clogged drain that needs basic cleaning. Start with draining the base and clearing the sump filter these solve most cases. If the error persists after thorough cleaning, replace the float switch or call for drain pump service.