On the covered GE dishwasher platform, C3, FTD, F56 means GE defines C3 as the dishwasher not draining. First, disconnect the power at the circuit breaker for about 30 seconds. GE says clean the filters every other month or more, and when wash performance drops.
Differential
Likely causes of “GE dishwasher code C3, FTD, F56”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A clogged fine or ultra fine filter
What separates it The tub holds water above the sump and dishes feel gritty
How to confirm GE says clean the filters every other month or more, and when wash performance drops
- 2
A blocked sump area
What separates it Paper or a large food piece covers the sump at the back of the tub
How to confirm Clear noodles, lettuce, bones or paper from the bottom of the tub
- 3
Over-sudsing from the wrong detergent
What separates it Suds fill the tub, which points to over-sudsing from the wrong detergent
How to confirm Use only detergent designed for automatic dishwashers, in the amount you need
- 4
A drain plumbing problem
What separates it The sink drain is clogged or the hose has no high loop
How to confirm Clear the sink drain and confirm the high loop or air gap
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: C3, FTD or F56
- How much water is left in the tub
- Whether the model has fine and ultra fine filters
- Note whether the disposer runs before you start troubleshooting
Try in this order
0 of 9 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleDisconnect the power at the circuit breaker for about 30 seconds.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleGE's solution: after about 30 seconds at the breaker, reset the dishwasher. If the problem persists, contact service.
Reset once
ReversibleDisconnect the power at the circuit breaker for about 30 seconds and then reset the dishwasher.
Clean the filters
ReversibleRemove the bottom rack, twist the ultra fine filter counterclockwise and lift it out, rinse it in warm soapy water with a sponge, then twist the two retaining posts to remove the fine mesh filter and rinse it too; do not use scouring pads.
Clear the tub and drain
ReversibleClear the sump area, run the disposer, clean the air gap and check the drain hose for kinks.
Check the detergent
ReversibleUse only powder, liquid, tablet or pod detergent made for automatic dishwashers, since other soaps cause excessive suds.
Check the drain hose and the air gap
ReversibleLook at the drain hose behind the dishwasher for kinks and at the sink's air gap or disposal connection for a blockage, since GE's C3 means the water is not leaving.
Run the disposal and clear the knockout plug
ReversibleOn a new disposal, make sure the dishwasher inlet knockout plug was removed, then run the disposal clear and try a drain cycle.
Clean the filters
ReversibleGE advises cleaning the filters every other month, and a blocked filter or a paper scrap over the sump is a common cause.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- C3, FTD, F56.
- Parts named
- Fine filter; ultra fine filter; sump; drain hose.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Do not use chemical drain cleaner in the dishwasher
- !Do not put your hands in the garbage disposer
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. GE lists FTD and F56 as failure to drain, the same fault as C3.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does C3, FTD, F56 mean on a GE dishwasher?+
GE defines C3 as the dishwasher not draining.
How much standing water is normal?+
On models without an ultra fine filter, 1 to 2 cups covering the bottom; with one, water in the sump only.
How often should I clean the filters?+
Every other month or more, depending on use.
How long is the power reset?+
About 30 seconds at the breaker.
Can a garbage disposal cause C3 on a GE dishwasher?+
Yes. A clogged disposal or an unremoved knockout plug stops the dishwasher draining. Run and clear the disposal first.
Is a little water left in the bottom normal?+
A small amount below the filter can be normal; water standing above it after a cycle is a drain problem.
Should I run the dishwasher again after clearing the blockage?+
Yes, run a short cycle and watch that the water leaves. If C3 returns, the drain pump needs a technician.