On the covered GE dishwasher platform, LEAK DETECTED means GE says a possible leak is detected and, on models with leak detection, the cycle is cancelled. First, turn off the water and power and look for the leak. GE says the cycle will be cancelled on models with leak detection.
Differential
Likely causes of “GE dishwasher code LEAK DETECTED”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A possible leak is detected
What separates it LEAK DETECTED shows on a model with leak detection
How to confirm GE says the cycle will be cancelled on models with leak detection
- 2
Water pooled in the base after a spill or overflow
What separates it LEAK DETECTED appears after an overfill or a spill from the door and water sits in the base
How to confirm Look at the base of the tub for pooled water and dry it with a towel
- 3
A door seal that does not close evenly
What separates it Water runs down the front of the tub when the door is closed
How to confirm Check the door seal is intact and clear of debris
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: LEAK DETECTED
- Whether water is on the floor
- Whether the model has leak detection
Try in this order
0 of 8 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleTurn off the water and power and look for the leak.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleGE's instruction: if LEAK DETECTED is displayed, contact service.
Check for water
ReversibleLook under and around the dishwasher for water and dry the area.
Shut off supply
ReversibleTurn off the water supply if a leak is visible.
Contact service
ReversibleGE says to contact service if LEAK DETECTED is displayed.
Dry the base
ReversibleOnce the dishwasher has stopped and the power is off, use a towel to dry any water in the base or on the floor around it.
Dry the base and check the door seal
ReversibleTurn off the water and power, wipe the base, and look at the door seal and the spray arms for the source of the water.
Check for overloading and suds
ReversibleToo much detergent or a blocked spray arm can push water out, so check the load and use the right amount of detergent.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- LEAK DETECTED.
- Parts named
- Leak sensor.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Shut off the water supply and switch off the breaker if water is on the floor
- !GE says to contact service if LEAK DETECTED is displayed
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. Only models with leak detection show this.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does LEAK DETECTED mean on a GE dishwasher?+
GE says a possible leak is detected and, on models with leak detection, the cycle is cancelled.
Why does my GE dishwasher say LEAK DETECTED when I see no leak?+
A little water in the base from an overfill or door spill can trigger the sensor. Dry the base and restart.
Can I keep using the dishwasher after LEAK DETECTED?+
Only after you find and fix the source. A repeating message after drying means a service call.
Is the leak sensor a safety feature?+
Yes. On models that have it, it stops the cycle to prevent water damage, so do not bypass it.