ADD WTR
GE Appliances
Water Level Detection Fault
Display shows “ADD WTR” or “ADD WATER” and unit will not start brewing even though the reservoir appears full.
Advertisements
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Advertisements
Possible Causes
Mineral buildup on water level sensor, Misaligned or stuck float in reservoir, Faulty water level sensor switch, Loose wiring to water level sensor
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the coffee maker before cleaning internal parts or removing covers.
- 1. Verify reservoir seating: Remove the water reservoir completely and reseat it firmly. Make sure it is fully down and aligned with the base contacts or sensor area.
- 2. Clean the reservoir and float: If your GE model uses a floating indicator, remove the reservoir and gently shake it. If the float is stuck, soak the reservoir in warm water with a little white vinegar for 20–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Ensure the float moves freely.
- 3. Descale the sensor area: Fill the reservoir with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. Run a cleaning cycle if available, or start a brew cycle without coffee (if the unit allows). This helps dissolve mineral buildup on the internal water level sensor.
- 4. Inspect sensor wiring (advanced): With the unit unplugged, remove the base or rear cover to access the water level sensor (often a small switch or electronic sensor under the reservoir area). Check for loose connectors and reseat them.
- 5. Replace sensor if needed: If the message persists and wiring is intact, the water level sensor assembly may need replacement. Order the correct GE water level sensor for your model.
Advertisements
Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Water Level Sensor Assembly
Check Price on Amazon
We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Advertisements