How to Clean a GE Dishwasher Filter: Maintaining Peak Performance
Cleaning your GE dishwasher filter involves a simple process of accessing, removing, rinsing, and replacing the filter components. Regular cleaning is essential for optimal dishwasher performance and preventing malodorous build-up.
Introduction: The Unsung Hero of Sparkling Dishes
Your GE dishwasher diligently battles food residue, grease, and grime to deliver sparkling clean dishes. But like any diligent worker, it needs a little help to maintain peak performance. One of the most crucial (and often overlooked) maintenance tasks is cleaning the dishwasher filter. This small component prevents food particles from recirculating and clogging the spray arms, impacting wash quality and potentially damaging the pump.
Why Clean Your GE Dishwasher Filter? The Benefits
Cleaning your dishwasher filter isn’t just about cleaner dishes; it’s about the overall health and longevity of your appliance. Neglecting this simple task can lead to a host of problems:
- Reduced Cleaning Power: A clogged filter restricts water flow, hindering the spray arms’ ability to reach every corner of the dishwasher.
- Unpleasant Odors: Trapped food particles decompose, creating foul smells that can permeate your kitchen.
- Clogged Spray Arms: Debris can pass through a heavily clogged filter and block the spray arm nozzles, reducing their effectiveness.
- Pump Damage: A heavily clogged filter can strain the dishwasher pump, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacement.
- Decreased Efficiency: Your dishwasher may have to work harder (and longer) to achieve the same cleaning results, wasting water and energy.
Identifying Your GE Dishwasher Filter Type
GE dishwashers utilize different filter systems depending on the model. The two most common types are:
- Self-Cleaning Filter (Hard Food Disposer): These models have a built-in grinder that pulverizes food particles. While technically “self-cleaning,” some larger debris may still accumulate and require occasional manual removal.
- Manual Filter: These models require regular manual cleaning to remove accumulated food particles. These are the most common filter type and the focus of this article. They usually consist of an upper filter and a lower filter cylinder.
Consult your dishwasher’s owner’s manual to determine which type you have. The location is generally at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the spray arm.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a GE Dishwasher Filter (Manual Type)
Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning your GE dishwasher’s manual filter:
- Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need rubber gloves, a sponge or soft brush, dish soap, and access to your sink.
- Locate the Filter: It’s usually found at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the spray arm. Refer to your owner’s manual if needed.
- Remove the Filter: This usually involves twisting a locking mechanism or unscrewing a cap. Be gentle to avoid damaging the filter assembly.
- Separate the Components: Most GE dishwashers have a two-part filter system: a coarse filter and a fine filter. Separate them for individual cleaning.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse both filter components under running water to remove loose debris.
- Scrub with Soap: Use a sponge or soft brush and dish soap to scrub away any remaining food particles or grime. Pay attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse both filter components with clean water to remove all traces of soap.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for any cracks, tears, or other damage to the filter components. Replace damaged filters immediately.
- Reassemble the Filter: Reassemble the two filter components.
- Reinstall the Filter: Place the reassembled filter back into its designated location in the dishwasher. Secure it by twisting the locking mechanism or screwing on the cap.
- Run a Rinse Cycle: After cleaning and reinstalling the filter, run a rinse cycle to flush out any remaining debris and ensure proper function.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Using Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can damage the filter’s delicate mesh.
- Forgetting to Clean Regularly: Neglecting to clean the filter regularly allows food particles to accumulate, making it more difficult to clean and potentially damaging the dishwasher. Aim for cleaning at least once a month, or more frequently if you use your dishwasher often.
- Reinstalling a Damaged Filter: Never reinstall a damaged filter. Damaged filters can allow food particles to bypass the filtration system, leading to clogs and other problems.
- Over-Tightening: When reinstalling the filter, avoid over-tightening the locking mechanism or cap, as this can damage the filter assembly.
- Ignoring Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your dishwasher’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations regarding filter cleaning.
Troubleshooting: What if…?
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Filter is difficult to remove | Caked-on food debris is blocking the mechanism | Soak the area with warm water and dish soap. Gently wiggle the filter while attempting to remove it. |
| Foul odors persist after cleaning | Other areas need cleaning (spray arms, door seals) | Clean the spray arms and door seals with a vinegar solution. Run a dishwasher cleaner through the cycle. |
| Dishwasher isn’t cleaning as well | Spray arms are clogged | Clean the spray arms to ensure proper water flow. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my GE dishwasher filter?
You should clean your GE dishwasher filter at least once a month. However, if you frequently wash heavily soiled dishes, you may need to clean it more often, such as every two weeks.
What happens if I don’t clean my dishwasher filter?
Failing to clean your dishwasher filter can lead to reduced cleaning performance, unpleasant odors, clogged spray arms, pump damage, and decreased efficiency.
Can I put my dishwasher filter in the dishwasher to clean it?
No, you should never put your dishwasher filter in the dishwasher to clean it. The high heat and harsh detergents can damage the filter. Always clean it manually using soap and water.
What should I do if my dishwasher filter is damaged?
If your dishwasher filter is damaged, you should replace it immediately. A damaged filter won’t properly filter food particles and can lead to further problems. You can purchase replacement filters online or from appliance retailers.
What kind of soap should I use to clean my dishwasher filter?
You should use a mild dish soap to clean your dishwasher filter. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can damage the filter’s delicate mesh.
Is it normal for my dishwasher filter to have some food particles on it?
Yes, it’s normal for your dishwasher filter to have some food particles on it. That’s its job! The key is to clean it regularly to prevent excessive build-up and clogs.
How can I prevent my dishwasher filter from getting clogged so quickly?
To prevent your dishwasher filter from getting clogged quickly, scrape off excess food from your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. You can also run the garbage disposal before using the dishwasher to ensure the drain line is clear.
Can I use vinegar to clean my dishwasher filter?
Yes, you can use vinegar to help clean your dishwasher filter. Soaking the filter in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water can help loosen stubborn food particles. Make sure to rinse thoroughly after soaking.
What does a dirty dishwasher filter smell like?
A dirty dishwasher filter typically smells musty, moldy, or like rotting food. If you notice any of these odors coming from your dishwasher, it’s a sign that you need to clean the filter.
How do I know if my dishwasher filter is clogged?
Signs of a clogged dishwasher filter include poor cleaning performance, food particles on dishes, and a foul odor coming from the dishwasher. You might also notice that the dishwasher is taking longer than usual to complete a cycle.
Where can I buy a replacement GE dishwasher filter?
You can purchase replacement GE dishwasher filters from appliance retailers, online marketplaces like Amazon, and directly from the GE Appliances website. Be sure to select the correct filter for your specific dishwasher model.
My dishwasher has a self-cleaning filter. Do I still need to clean it?
While dishwashers with hard food disposers (often marketed as “self-cleaning”) don’t require cleaning as frequently as those with manual filters, they may still accumulate larger debris. It’s a good idea to check it periodically and manually remove any large items that haven’t been ground up. Consulting your owner’s manual is recommended to determine the specific cleaning recommendations for your model.